Spring/Summer 2000

Current Research: Black Walnut

Mississippi landowners with naturally occurring black walnut trees have an opportunity to participate in a Mississippi State University research project. Funded by the John and Jane Player Endowment, the study by the Mississippi State University's Forest and Wildlife Research Center is designed to characterize good walnut planting sites and the time needed to produce marketable trees. "The black walnut has highly-valued wood that is used in fine furniture, cabinetry, interior or paneling, gunstocks and other specialty products," said forestry professor Emily Schultz, leader of the study. "Little is known, however, about the distribution, growth and site requirements of walnut trees in Mississippi." The majority of information concerning site and management requirements for black walnut has come from the Midwest and the eastern United States where the trees are grown for planned future income and attracting and enhancing wildlife populations. "In general, walnut in the deep South has received very little attention except for the harvest of high-valued individual trees," Schultz said. "We know, however, that it requires proper site and soil conditions, as well as intensive management to increase the value of the wood and decrease the time it takes to produce marketable logs." In addition to identifying planting sites and determining economic returns, the Mississippi State University study will identify management techniques and select trees to be included in a breeding program for superior trees adapted to Mississippi. To complete the study, researchers are seeking the assistance of Mississippi landowners who have naturally occurring black walnut trees in a wooded environment. "We would like to take soil samples and collect height, diameter and age data for walnut trees and surrounding trees on forested sites," Schultz said. "This information will help us understand the requirements of the black walnut tree in the South." Individuals interested in participating in the black walnut study may contact Schultz at (662) 325-2697 or by e-mail at eschultz@cfrmsstate.edu.