Area is managed by the Monongahela National Forest. Surrounding forest is second growth. Downslope along the Elk River we have several plots. The river is approximately 150 meters downslope from the plot. There is a small sandstone cliff break at the top of the plot.;Area was forested. The area is now covered by downed T2 and T3 trees. The forest was likely a rich high elevation mixed mesophytic forest before the event. There are a few red oak and basswood trees still standing. The wind even happened within the last three years creating the opening. Some of the downed trees are still barely alive. Most of the soil exposed is from tip mounds, there is little observable organic soil. Downfall created a natural deer fence, no herbivory or trails.
Representativeness
Large patch of blackberry shrubland created by a large wind event. Plot was placed to sample the opening created by the wind event.
