Post-Fire evaluation of Pinus radiata plantation, la Corcovada sector, Mérida, Venezuela

Abstract

Forest plantations in Venezuela began in the state of Mérida for protective and ornamental purposes. Given the initial success of these plantations, similar experiences were repeated elsewhere in the country. In the Mucubají Experimental Station (E.E. Mucubají), the introduction of conifers was promoted through at Universidad de Los Andes-CORPOANDES project in 1965. The main objectives of this project were to conserve the watershed and its ecosystems, conduct research on the behavior of exotic-introduced species, protect soils from erosion, and conserve watersheds. The general objective of this research was to evaluate the general state of the post-fire stand, within the Pinus radiata D. Don plantation in the La Corcovada sector of Mérida, Venezuela. Systematic sampling was carried out using circular plots of 400 m2 (r = 11,28 m), randomly locating the first plot, followed by subsequent plots every 80 m between plots and every 100 m between transects until the entire affected area was covered. The sampling intensity was 5 % for a total of 40 plots. The majority of trees, 67.69 %, were affected by the fire but in good condition. This represented a total affected volume of 669.826 m3 above bark and 506.480 m3 below bark.