Manipulations to regenerate aspen ecosystems

Vegetative regeneration of aspen can be initiated through manipulations tha t provide hormonal stimulation, proper growth environment, and sucker prote ction-the three elements of the aspen regeneration triangle. The correct co urse of action depends upon a careful evaluation of the size, vigor, age, a nd successional status of the existing clone. Soils and site productivity, competition from other plants, and the potential impact of browsing animals upon new regeneration should also be considered. Treatments may include do ing nothing, commercial harvest, prescribed fire, mechanical root stimulati on, removal of competing vegetation, protection of regeneration from herbiv ory, and in limited circumstances, regenerating aspen from seed.