Date of Graduation

Fall 2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

Committee Chairperson

Jessica Schedlbauer, PhD

Committee Member

Jennifer Chandler, PhD

Committee Member

Greg Turner, PhD

Abstract

Temperate deciduous forests of the Mid-Atlantic region are important carbon sinks in the United States that are under pressure from disturbances such as pests, diseases, and herbivory. These pressures can also have a major impact on forest structure and species composition. This study aimed to determine the difference between 100- and 200-year-old forest stands in terms of structure, carbon storage, and composition, as well as how these parameters change over time. The study took place in the Gordon Natural Area, located in southeastern Pennsylvania. Trees ≥ 10 cm diameter at breast height (DBH) and dead wood were censused in 2013, 2018, and 2023. The data were used to calculate stem density, basal area, aboveground biomass carbon (AGBM-C), down dead wood carbon, standing dead wood carbon, importance values, and regeneration index (RI). The RI is the percentage of small trees minus large trees. The 100-year-old stand had a significantly (p ≤ 0.05) greater stem density, basal area, and AGBM-C of ≥ 10 cm trees. The basal area and AGBM-C of both forest stands decreased significantly from 2018 to 2023. Dead wood pools were invariant between stands and over time. Composition data showed both stands had a lack of regeneration and regeneration mismatch. Current forest pests and diseases, as well as the natural end of tree lifespans will further decrease AGBM-C, basal area, and regeneration. Active management strategies should be implemented to prevent further regeneration failure and maintain high forest carbon storage capacity.

Final Version Confirmation

1

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Available for download on Saturday, December 11, 2027

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