A large area of LDW (25 hectares) is being established as a long-term forest research area. Following the methodology that is utilized by the Smithsonian Institute's Center for Tropical Forest Science network of 40 plots (www.ctfs.si.edu), we will produce a dataset directly comparable to forests worldwide. We are initially interested in gaining a better understanding of natural tree regeneration dynamics and carbon storage in this old-growth chestnut oak forest. The largest canopy trees are approximately 150 years old. The long-term measurements of this area will greatly add to our understanding of the successional dynamics of this region. Our preliminary data on 9 ha include 35 species and nearly 12,000 stems for woody species > 1cm in diameter at breast height. We are seeking funding to census the full 25 ha in the near future. If you would like more information on this project, please contact Daniel Johnson through the IURTP e-mail address preserve@indiana.edu.

The 9ha forest is dominated by oak species (shades of blue) in the canopy layer of trees. The understory is dominated by sugar maple (green). The cluster of points in the northeast quadrant are nearly 3,500 pawpaw trees that have filled in a gap left behind by several large oak trees falling over.