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Updated: Jul 11, 2026
08:42
Infection of In Vivo and In Vitro Pines with the Pinewood Nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus and Isolation of Induced Volatiles
Published on: September 27, 2024
Streamflow greatly reduced by converting deciduous hardwood stands to pine.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|September 6, 1974
Summary
Converting Appalachian forests from hardwood to white pine significantly reduced annual streamflow by 20 percent. These water yield reductions occurred throughout the year, particularly during the dormant and early growing seasons.
Area of Science:
- Forestry science
- Hydrology
- Environmental science
Background:
- Forest cover significantly influences watershed hydrology and streamflow.
- Conversion of forest types can alter water balance dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the long-term impact of forest cover conversion on annual streamflow.
- To assess monthly streamflow changes following the replacement of deciduous hardwood with white pine.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two experimental watersheds in the southern Appalachians.
- Compared streamflow data from white pine stands to historical data from mature deciduous hardwood cover.
Main Results:
- Annual streamflow was reduced by approximately 20 cm (20%) fifteen years after conversion.
- Streamflow reductions were observed across all months.
- The most substantial monthly reductions (1.5-3.5 cm) occurred during the dormant and early growing seasons.
Conclusions:
- White pine afforestation leads to significant and persistent reductions in water yield.
- Forest management decisions, including species conversion, have critical implications for water resource management.
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