Determining the factors associated with seedling herbivory on afforested carbon sequestration sites in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley: preliminary results

One causal factor of failed afforestation attempts in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley (LMAV) is mammalian herbivory. Herbivory of seedlings generally reduces growth and can also lead to seedling mortality. Seedlings were randomly selected for monitoring throughout the first growing season. Growth and survival data were recorded, as were signs of mammalian herbivory. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted and it was determined that species mix and the application of slow-release fertilizer tablets had a significant effect on seedling survival rates and overall seedling herbivory rates after one growing season. Future research will provide additional input as to what factors are most responsible for determining seedling survival and anticipated seedling herbivory in afforested areas in the LMAV. Based on the results of this study, we hope to identify a cost-effective species mix that can be utilized in the LMAV to promote carbon sequestration and withstand the negative impacts of potential browsing by mammalian herbivores.