Bucket mounding as a mechanical site preparation technique in wetlands

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2001

Abstract

This article summarizes the information in the literature concerning site preparation in wetlands with special emphasis on bucket mounding. Mounding as a site preparation technique has been used since the 18th century for reestablishing tree species on wet sites, and it is commonly used in parts of Canada and Scandinavia. In the Lake States, a version of mounding called bucket mounding is coming into use for regenerating cutover wetland sites. Bucket mounding differs from other mounding operations in that it is used exclusively in wetlands and uses a tracked excavator to create the mounds, rathe r than equipment towed behind or attached to a skidder or bulldozer. In wet areas, bucket mounding creates a raised planting site, resulting in more aerated soil above the water table, warmer soil temperatures during the growing season, greater nutrient availability, and a small degree of vegetation control. Bucket mounding mimics the natural pit and mound microtopography that naturally occurs as a result of wind storms across the Great Lakes Region. This microtopography is important for natural regeneration establishment and growth. This article provides an overview of natural pit and mound formation, types of mounds, mounding equipment, the effects of mounding on the seedling environment, and planted species survival. Additional considerations for Lake States conditions are also discussed. Copyright ©2001 by the Society of American Foresters.

Publication Title

Northern Journal of Applied Forestry

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