The effect of the beech bark disease on the growth and survival of beech in northern hardwoods

Abstract A risk classification for beech (Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.) based on tree characteristics before the onset of the beech bark disease indicated that the crown widths in relation to DBH of trees that died were narrower than the crowns of survivors. Quantitative information on beech trees in the central Adirondack Region of the New York State before and during the development of the beech bark disease was available which included repeated measurements (1954–1976) of fifteen tree variables on 417 beech trees. A risk classification was developed which separated the trees by diameter and condition with a high (0.6), medium (0.3), and low (0.05) relative probability of mortality. The classification should improve the ability to separate those trees that are apt to die within a short period of time From those trees which are apt to survive.