Production of biomass for energy on abandoned farmlands in the northeast. Final annual report, March 1, 1982. [Poplars, black locust, black cherry, white ash, red maple]

Technical Report · Fri Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1982

OSTI ID:5423799

Laing, F M

Progress has been made in determining the feasibility of short-rotation, intensive culture of hardwood species in this region. More than 12 species have been tested at close spacing (0.6 x 0.6 m) on a 3 year rotation. Three species show promise as indicated by yields. It is believed some understanding of the necessary methods for increasing productivity has been gained and should become evident in future yields. Management practices, including use of selected herbicides and tillage, have been refined although alternative practices need further research. Use of locally produced planting stock and selection among seedling populations is expected to contribute to better productivity when compared to commercial stock from other areas. Adverse weather in 1981 contributed to lower yields because of dieback in some species and to a lack of native seed production. Also a projected planting of 4 to 6 ha. in Chazy, NY was delayed because of wet soil conditions. Drainage has now been improved. Two larger plantings were made in 1981. Measurements of wild coppices provided information on species coppicing ability, site effects and potential yields. Plots in young stands of successional hardwood species were cut, producing yields of 50 to over 100 OD tons per acre. Coppicing of the stumps will be measured and interplanting attempted to assess this alternative source of biomass. Costs involved in site preparation, planting and stand maintenance have been recorded. They will be used as a basis for an economic analysis in conjunction with projected yields. 18 figures, 21 tables.

• Research Organization: Vermont Univ., Burlington (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: FG01-78ET20596
• OSTI ID: 5423799
• Report Number(s): DOE/ET/20596-T1; ON: DE84006569
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

09 BIOMASS FUELS
140504* -- Solar Energy Conversion-- Biomass Production & Conversion-- (-1989)
BIOMASS PLANTATIONS
COPPICES
COST
CULTIVATION TECHNIQUES
FEDERAL REGION I
FEDERAL REGION II
FORESTS
GROWTH
MAPLES
NEW YORK
NORTH AMERICA
PLANT GROWTH
PLANTS
POPLARS
PRODUCTIVITY
SHORT ROTATION CULTIVATION
SITE PREPARATION
TREES
USA
VERMONT