Dynamics of Understory Biomass in Sitka Spruce-Western Hemlock Forests of Southeast Alaska

Understory vegetation undergoes successional stages during the 1st 300 yr after logging or fire disturbance in the coastal Picea—Tsuga forests of southeast Alaska. Residual shrubs and tree seedlings increase their growth within 5 yr after overstory removal. Understory biomass peaks at 5 Mg°ha — null 1 °yr — null 1 °15—25 yr after logging. Shrubs and herbs are virtually eliminated (<0.1 Mg/ha) from the understory after forest canopies close at...