Objectives:

To compare stem growth and climatic adaptability characteristics of 13 hybrid poplar clones and clonal mixes with a Revelstoke native black cottonwood provenance. Of particular interest are:

• the relative height and stem volume growth potentials of hybrids and the native source, and
• growth timing of all materials as it relates to frost hardiness.
  

Experimental Design:

A randomized, complete block design was used with an eight-tree rectangular plot for each of the 14 genetic entries for each of five blocks. Spacing was 3 m x 3m.

History:

This is one of three sites planted in 1993 in the East Kootenay Valley of the Cranbrook area. The other two sites were abandoned in 1995 due to excessive animal and flooding damages. The Rampart site was fenced and is irrigated with municipal wastewater from Cranbrook and maintained by Crestbrook Forest Products. It has been measured for total tree height and tree condition each fall since establishment.

• 1993 - project established
• 1994 - 1999 - annual measurements and condition evaluation

Status: Active.

Reports and Publications: None

Comments: Certain hybrid clones (or clonal groups) have been identified as having acceptable frost tolerance and growth potential after four years on site (NM-2, DTAC-8, 53-242, Minn mix 52-229 and the Revelstoke black cottonwood source).