Description:
Evaluation of four 35 mm film:lens combinations for estimating conifer
mortality showed that large-scale true color images obtained with
Kodak High Speed Ektachrome and color infrared images obtained with
Kodak Ektachrome Infrared, both exposed through a 135 mm lens were best.
Higher correlation coefficients were found for the true color:135 combination
than color IR:135 combination.
Correlation between ground counts and photo counts of stereoscopically
examined Kodacolor prints was no better and possibly not as good as
correlations between ground counts and enlarged images of projected 35
mm transparencies.
* This type and format of photography, as with other types and formats,
has its advantages and disadvantages, and would be useful in determining
41 mortality rates or making mortality counts on areas where full coverage
is not desired. Other innovations are discussed.
Survey designs in which plot selection is based on probability proportional
to size (numbers of trees) are apparently more efficient than
methods employing simple random selection. An estimated mortality rate
41 of 1.5 trees per acre was indicated, and estimates of 9.8 dead goodtopped
trees per acre plus an additional 9.5 green high-risk trees per
acre were found. Most mortality and tree decline were associated with
disease agents, and continuing or accelerated disease-caused decline is
expected in the area. Western white pine,lodgepole pine, and Douglasfir
accounted for over 90 percent of the recent and older mortality.
The widespread occurrence of destructive root pathogens, including
Armillariella me flea and Poria weirii (identified on high-risk trees
during the survey), indicates that even though tested control measures
are unavailable, best available alternatives discussed herein should be
considered in management of the area.