Written as a final project for ESC 410- Forest Soils and Productivity, taught by Dr. Rob Harrison- this Webpage explores hybrid poplar and its interaction with the soil. It was created with the assistance and computer wizardry of Derek Stuart, who is also an accomplished outdoorsman. To see cool photos of mountaineering in action and other stuff, check out Derek's Homepage.

Hybrid Poplar and the Soil

As the human population of the Earth expands, and more traditional sources of fiber and energy production become insufficient to meet demand, alternative techniques of forestry will be necessary to fill the gap. One such alternative technique that is already meeting with success in some regions of the world is short-rotation intensive culture of hybrid poplar (Populus spp.). Hybrid poplar can be used to increase the land-base supporting the production of forest products. Areas in the Pacific Northwest and Midwestern North America with fertile alluvial soil are already being afforested with hybrid poplar in anticipation of increased demand.

Biology of Populus
History and Uses of Populus
Landscape Characteristics of Hybrid Poplar Forestry
A Comparison of Natural vs. Intensive Systems
Practices That Damage the Soil in Hybrid Poplar Cultivation
Nutrient Cycling in Hybrid Poplar Systems
Example Ideal Soil Types in W. WA for Hybrid Poplar
Biosolids in Hybrid Poplar Culture
Management and Treatments of Plantations
References

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