Date of Award
2012
Degree Name
Physical and Applied Science
College
College of Science
Type of Degree
M.S.
Document Type
Thesis
First Advisor
Ralph Oberly
Second Advisor
Michael Little
Third Advisor
Thomas Jones
Abstract
The field of environmental science can directly benefit from a society driven by advances in technology. The loss of the American chestnut (Castanea denata) has had a significant negative environmental and economic impact throughout the Appalachian region. However, using an integrated approach utilizing recent advances in science and technology, we may be able to promote the re-introduction of a very similar species within this region. Using GigaPan as a tool for site assessment and data storage, and previous methods of biological field surveying within the critical detritus layer of the forest floor, we will assess the status of forest ecosystems currently retaining native C. dentata sprouts, and systems absent of C. dentata. Once this process is complete, we will gain knowledge on developing a protocol to implement plantings of the newly acquired hybrid American chestnut (Castanea denata x mollissima). If followed through properly, this work could provide background research towards the introduction of a keystone resource in forest ecosystems that will affect many different levels of ecosystem functionality.
Subject(s)
American chestnut - Environmental aspects.
Forest ecology - Appalachian Region.
Recommended Citation
Brewer, Charles Taylor, "Evaluating the Current Status of Chestnut-Present Forest Systems: Integrating GigaPan as a Tool for Site Assessment" (2012). Theses, Dissertations and Capstones. 221.
https://mds.marshall.edu/etd/221
