Prediction of Growth and Mortality of Oregon White Oak in the Pacific Northwest

We developed new equations to predict Oregon white oak (Quercus garryano Dougl. ex Hook.) development within ORGANON, a stand-development model that is widely used in the Pacific Northwest. Tree size, competitive status, crown ratio, and site productivity were statistically significant predictors of growth and mortality. Three scenarios were projected with the new equations, the previous ORGANON model, and the Forest Vegetation Simulator. Compared with the two other models, the new equations predicted greater diameter growth in oak woodland and a greater effect of conifer removal in a conifer-oak stand. The new equations, which are based on considerably more information than previous equations, should give forest managers greater confidence in the ability of ORGANON to estimate the impacts of silvicultural treatments on oaks.