Reference stands for silvicultural research: a Maine perspective

Silvicultural experiments should have untreated stand replicates in which development can be tracked over time. Unfortunately, field studies are seldom ideal. This article is one of six in this issue addressing experimental controls. Our focus is the Penobscot Experimental Forest (PEF) in Maine, where a 55-year-old experiment in northern conifer silviculture has an unreplicated, somewhat atypical control. The identification of stands that represent desired endpoints or natural states is another consideration and may be difficult if based on rare conditions. Big Reed Forest Reserve and Maine's Ecological Reserve System are discussed as possible benchmarks for management on the PEF and serve as examples of the opportunities and challenges associated with the identification of benchmark ecosystems.