Abstract

The current US soil taxonomic system was developed primarily for agricultural use. However, other end users may require different metrics to assess site productivity potential. Managing intensive forest plantations for site-specific responses to silviculture requires a modified soil classification system based on deep-rooted and long-lived species needs. Additionally, current site productivity information for loblolly pine in the southeast as described by site index at base age 50 is based on work from up to six decades ago. Current management practices and genetics have drastically increased productivity and reduced rotation times but these improvements are not reflected in the available data.  Far more data is currently available to digitally map and characterize base and potential site productivity as well as likelihood of response. Additionally, a need has been recognized for a coherent site productivity potential index across major forest systems in the US to aid in forest productivity modeling efforts. This study characterizes the current state of information on forest soil productivity mapping in the Southeast and knowledge gaps. Digital soil mapping efforts and remote sensing data may be able to enhance the estimates of forest productivity and fill gaps in current soil taxonomy for forested areas which are often not mapped to the same degree as agricultural soils.