Effects of forest disturbance on water chemistry in a forested ecosystem: case study from Terra Nova National Park, Newfoundland

Abstract

Boreal forests, like all forests, are affected by disturbances. Whether natural or anthropogenic, disturbances have the ability to influence forest processes and alter existing conditions, eventually affecting the overall forest composition and distribution. Each type of disturbance, as well as each specific event, is unique in terms of its characteristics and its effects. -- The overall objective of this study was to look at whether or not the disturbance history of boreal forests in Terra Nova National Park, Newfoundland was reflected in the water chemistry. One component of the study examined the long-term effects of fire and logging on water chemistry of park lakes, as well as the short-term effects of a forest fire in one area of the park. The second component of the study examined a specific forested watershed and how a local disturbance, moose herbivory, was affecting soil solution chemistry. -- Overall, it appeared that with moderate disturbance and given sufficient time, forests are able to recover naturally and minimize any long-term chemical effects to their environment. Results from the short-term study of a recent forest fire did suggest chemical differences in soil solution. However, the local disturbance of moose herbivory showed no discernible effects in the short-term. Effects of this disturbance likely require a longer time to become apparent.