Wood changes in four size classes of fire-killed western larch.

Abstract

Four size classes (8-12, 12.1-16, 16.1-20, and 20.1 + in. dbh) of fire-killed western larch (Larix o(cidentalis) were monitored and dissected over a 5-year period to assess causes and rates of postfire wood changes. Defect and merchantable volume were assessed by a certified scaler during the first 3 years. A greater proportion of wood volume in small trees was affected by decay, wood borers, and checks than in the large trees. Half of the 8-12 in. dbh size (lass wood volume was lost to postfire defects, whereas less than 15% of the 20.1 + in. dbh size (lass wood volume was lost to postf ire defects after 3 years.