Forest resources of Arkansas, 1995

Abstract

Cover photograph by Dr. James F. Rosson, Jr.-In the foreground is a 15-inch American beech (Fagus grandifolia) growing on shallow soils but near the lower section of the slope, where soil conditions are more mesic. This site is in Madison County, Arkansas, near the western limit of the natural range of beech. Although not common in Arkansas (only 8 trees ≥ 5.0 inches d.b.h. were tallied on FIA sample plots in Madison County, and only 255 trees ≥ 5.0 inches d.b.h. were tallied on FIA sample plots across the State) American beech adds much to the diversity of tree flora and provides important mast for wildlife. The large tree behind and slightly to the left of the beech is white oak (Quercus alba