Utilization of Low Grade Wood for Use as Animal Bedding: A Case Study of Eastern Hemlock.

The hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) (Adelges tsugae) is causing widespread mortality of eastern hemlock (EH) (Tsuga canadensis [L.] Carrière) across its range. Unless ecological or cultural considerations are accounted for, few forest managers would find it economical to manage the HWA. However, new markets for EH may increase incentives to manage the HWA or at least bring more value to this low-grade tree species. Our research explores the feasibility of using EH as animal bedding, by comparing water absorption, microbial growth, and wood shaving production factors with eastern white pine (EWP) (Pinus strobus L.). Results showed that when dried to 10 percent and 30 percent moisture content, EH absorbed 281 percent and 176 percent of its weight in water, which was significantly lower than EWP, which absorbed 361 percent and 243 percent respectively. However, no difference was found between tree species when comparing the growth of pathogenic bacteria in bedding samples. Furthermore, no difference in volume of produced bedding was found when using a wood shaving machine. These findings suggest that EH is suitable for animal bedding, especially if the substantially lower stumpage value of the wood resource, as compared with EWP and other species within its range, compensates for the reduced moisture absorbing capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]