AN EVALUATION OF WOODLAND RECLAMATION ON STRIP-MINED LANDS IN EAST TEXAS

We compared the composition and structural characteristics of reclaime d and native woody plant communities near Fairfield, Texas, to evaluat e the effectiveness of woodland reclamation 3-11 years since establish ment. Species composition, foliage density, canopy cover, and woody pl ant densities were recorded in plots randomly placed along transects b isecting blocks of reclaimed and native woodlands. During summer, vert ical foliage densities at heights less-than-or-equal-to 2 m were simil ar among native and reclaimed areas. Foliage density and canopy cover declined in reclaimed blocks during winter, but remained relatively co nstant in native woodlands, where evergreens and vines were more commo n. Canopy cover was absent in reclaimed woodlands <6 years old but inc reased with age in 6 to 11-year-old blocks. These data indicated that approximately 27 years will be needed before trees in reclaimed blocks will achieve the stature of canopy trees in native woodlands. Reclaim ed woodlands contained different woody plant species and had lower woo dy stem densities compared to native woodlands. On average, stem densi ties in reclaimed blocks were six times lower than densities in native woodlands. Comparisons with planting records indicate that survival o f most commonly planted woody species was low. Only green ash (Fraxinu s pennsylvanica), Russian oliver (Elaeagnus commutata), smooth sumac ( Rhus glabra), and redbud (Cercis canadensis) had estimated survival ra tes >50%. Reclamation procedures used at Big Brown Mine (BBM) during 1 981-1988 have not produced woodland habitats with vegetative character istics comparable to premined woodlands and may not be providing the c over needed to encourage use by certain wildlife species. Procedures f or improving woodland reclamation are recommended.