Negar Moghimian, Hashem Habashi, Yahya Kooch
The present study aimed to examine the effects of pit and mound micro topography on soil carbon sequestration (SCS) and fertility status in a mixed beech forest. This research was conducted in the Experimental Forest Station of Gorgan University that is located in a temperate forest of Golestan province in the north of Iran. Pit and mound ages were considered equal to decay degree of downed tree. Due to, five uprooted trees were selected for each age class. Four microsites were distinguished including mound top (mound), the pit bottom (pit), the edge of dead tree (edge) and closed canopy (level) at the study area. Soil samples were taken at 0 - 15 and 15 - 30cm depths from all microsites. Bulk density, soil organic carbon (SOC) and N were measured at the Laboratory and then the values of C/N ratio and also SCS were calculated. The most soil bulk density was found in soil deeper layers at mound and also beside younger downed trees. Pits had higher SOC, N, C/N ratio and SCS than in other microsites. Greater amounts of these features were found in elder pit and mounds and also upper soils. On basis of these findings, we recommend to leaving the windthrown stands in the protected area without clearing as the best option for forest restoration. The results can be considered in survey and management of forest ecosystems that are imposed by wind throw.
