Describes the status of our knowledge of ponderosa pine silviculture in the southwestern States of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. Economic value, impact on other uses, and the timber resource are discussed first, followed by ecological background, site quality, growth and yield, and silviculture and management. Relevant literature is discussed along with observations, experience, and results of unpublished research. Treatise is intended to serve as a reference tool for guidance in making management decisions and prescribing silvicultural treatments. Research needs are also considered.

Abstract: Potential production of ponderosa pine in the Southwest is simulated for various combinations of stand density, site index, age, and thinningschedule. Such estimates are needed to project future development of stands managed in different ways.

Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) is the most widely distributed conifer in North America, and one of the most valuable. Commercial stands of the species are found in all of the 15 States which lie wholly or in part west of the 102d merinian, and in all but one it rank among the most important lumber producers. In the Southwest, ponderosa pine is of particular importance since this one species makes up 88 percent of the standing saw-timber volume in the two States of Arizona and New Mexico.

This paper presents a broad-based synthesis of the general ecology of the ponderosa pine ecosystem in the Black Hills. This synthesis contains information and results of research on ponderosa pine from numerous sources within the Black Hills ecosystem. We discuss the silvical characteristics of ponderosa pine, natural disturbances that govern ecosystem processes, wildlife habitat and management, various silvicultural methods to manage ponderosa pine forests, and watershed management of the Black Hills.

Brings together the writings of practitioners and thinkers from a variety of fields--including forestry, biology, philosophy, ecology, political science, archaeology, botany, and geography--to synthesize what is known about ecological restoration in ponderosa pine forests and to consider the factors involved in developing and implementing a successful restoration effort.