Dr. Willim M. Healy, USDA Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station, University of Massachusetts.
ABSTRACT: Acorns are an important food for wildlife in New England forests, but information on managing stands to enhance acorn production is scarce. Thinning oak stands in central Massachusetts to promote the growth of quality sawtimber did not diminish acorn production per hectare. During 3 successive years, the average number of sound acorns ranged from 30,000 to 155,000 per hectare in unthinned stands and from 58,000 to 220,000 per hectare in thinned stands. Releasing individual oaks increased acorn production per tree.
The differences between thinned and unthinned trees and stands were greatest during years when acorn production was lowest. The positive effects of thinning during years of generally poor acorn production is a potentially important benefit for wildlife. Thinning oak stands to enhance acorn production may be an attractive option for landowners with an interest in wildlife.
This entire research report may be found in the Northern Journal of Applied Forestry, Volume 14, Number 3, September 1997.