Ots, K., Mandre, M., Pärn, H., Kask, R. and Pikk, J. 2009. Changes in the Allocation of Nutrients and Biomass in Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) Canopy in an Area of Cement Industry in Northeast Estonia.   Baltic Forestry, 15 (2): 237-247

The study was carried out in selected stands in the Northeast Estonian industrial region (cement dust pollution). A total of 4 Pinus sylvestris stands with similar natural characteristics were studied in 2005. Emissions from the cement plant have decreased several times during the last ten years. The long-term impact of cement dust and alkalisation of the environment complicate mineral nutrition, disbalance the mineral composition and influence the growth of trees. Vertical gradients of nutrients and their ratios in canopies varied depending on the alkalisation of soil and the level of dust pollution in the past. Reduced N and increased K, Ca and Mg concentrations in needles were characteristic of pines in the heavily polluted areas. The stimulation growth of pine needles 2.5 and 5 km E of the cement plant may be a sign of a positive effect of reduced doses of cement dust in soil.

Key words: alkaline dust pollution, canopy layer, needles, nutrients, Pinus sylvestris, soil