Tree Growth in Avalanche Paths: The Implications for Iceland's Afforestation Efforts
Tree Growth in Avalanche Paths: The Implications for Iceland's Afforestation Efforts
About Me
My name is Tori Duckworth. I'm a Biology and Environmental Science major with a minor in Data Science. I'm originally from Lynnfield, Massachusetts. I have an interest in the relationships between climate and weather and their impacts on ecosystems, especially in Arctic and tundra ecosystems. I studied abroad in Iceland, which only deepened my love for cold climates. My capstone is an independent research project that I conducted while abroad! I adore running, hiking, skiing, and ice climbing, anything that gets me outdoors. I also enjoy reading, knitting/crocheting, and oil pastels.
Abstract
Avalanches are a common natural disturbance in Iceland, and their frequency and magnitude are expected to transform due to climate change. As forestry expands in Iceland, it is important to understand how trees respond to avalanche disturbances in order to inform management and planning. This study examined tree responses by sampling twelve trees from three locations with varying degrees of avalanche activity. Each tree's species, height, diameter at breast height, age, density, and visible signs of avalanche damage were recorded. Results showed significant differences in species diversity, dbh, height, and neighbor distance between the avalanche-free site and sites with any avalanche activity. However, there was no statistical difference between the two areas, one frequently hit and the other infrequently hit by avalanches. The findings suggest that Downy birch or Siberian larch may be more resilient to avalanche disturbances. However, planting patterns and stand age could have confounded the results. These conclusions could inform future planting strategies, such as species selection, in avalanche-prone regions. Further research is suggested to understand long-term forest responses to climatic disturbances in Iceland.