Wood and understory production under a range of ponderosa pine stocking levels, Black Hills, South Dakota

Stemwood and understory production (kg ha -1 ) were estimated during 3 nonconsecutive years on 5 growing stock levels of ponderosa pine including clearcuts and unthinned stands. Stemwood production was consistently greater at mid- and higher pine stocking levels, and understory production was greater in stands with less pine; however, there were no differences in total (stemwood + understory) production. Based on loss of productivity, there is no argument that small clearcuts and unthinned stands should not be included in site plans. They contribute significantly to community structure, particularly to plant and animal species richness.