Forest Vegetation Structure and Disturbance Impacts on Mt. Baekseoksan (Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do)

초록

The vegetation of Baekseoksan Mountain was classified into five distinct communities, with elevation and microtopography identified as the most influential environmental factors determining their classification. The Pinus densiflora-Schisandra chinensis community (Pd_Sc) was observed in the lower mountain areas, representing an early successional stage dominated by Pinus densiflora. The Acer pictum var. mono-Pinus densiflora_Deutzia glabrata community (Am-Pd_Dg) was found in moist and lowland areas. This community is expected to undergo succession after the declines of Pinus densiflora, giving way to deciduous forest. The Quercus mongolica-Carex lanceolata community (Qm_Cl) occurred at mid-elevations, representing an early to mid-successional community following the decline of Pinus densiflora. The Quercus mongolica-Diarrhena fauriei community (Qm_Df) was dominant at higher elevations, while the Pinus koraiensis-Isodon inflexus community (Pk_Ii) was identified as an artificially established plantation. Despite the presence of disturbance factors, such as forest roads and lodging facilities, the vegetation on Mt. Baekseoksan has not exhibited significant declines in species diversity or the appearance of invasive species within communities compared to a previous study. This is likely due to the continuous and effective management by local residents. Therefore, coordinated conservation efforts between local communities and forest management agencies will be essential to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of forest resources.

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