Atlantic White-Cedar cones

On-line Proceedings of the
2009 Atlantic White-Cedar Symposium

The Ecology and Management of
Atlantic White-Cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides) Ecosystems

A Symposium held on June 9, 10, and 11, 2009 at the
City Hotel and Bistro in Greenville, North Carolina - USA

Table of Contents and Conference LInks

Challenges and Success of Atlantic White-Cedar Restoration at the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Chris Lowie and Bryan Poovey, US Fish and Wildlife Service - Great Dismal Swamp Nation Wildlife Refuge; Robert T. Belcher, Malcom Pirnie, Inc.

Presented by Christopher Lowie

This presentation will provide an update on an Atlantic white-cedar (AWC) restoration project following Hurricane Isabel. We will also describe initial impacts of a recent wildfire, and the challenges to restoration. On September 18, 2003, Hurricane Isabel inflicted severe damage to mature stands of Atlantic white-cedar in the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge). Refuge staff realized the thick layer of downed and damaged trees would prohibit the natural regeneration of cedar, and represented a severe fuel loading situation. From September 2004 to June 2008, the Refuge conducted AWC salvage and restoration efforts. Initial techniques included logging, herbicide application, and some planting of seedlings. Annual natural regeneration of AWC is occurring at varying densities, proving these techniques can help restore the species. In June 2008, with approximately two weeks remaining to complete salvage activities, the largest, longest and most extensive wildfire in Refuge history occurred. The South One fire burned 781 acres of the 1,100-acre restoration area. Fire severity varied greatly, burning only the duff layer in some areas to 4 feet of peat loss, which significantly altered the landscape. In areas where fire severity was low, a few AWC seedlings survived and some new sprouts were observed within the ashes. However, most naturally regenerated AWC seedlings and seed trees were killed, and isolated areas may be left unsuitable for AWC restoration. The Refuge received federal funds to survey and replant the area. Planting areas and density will be prioritized based on results of natural regeneration rates.
Proceedings Table of Contents and Conference Links