Filling the gap: A compositional gap regeneration model for managed northern hardwood forests

► We present a model of harvest-gap tree regeneration for northern hardwood forests. ► The model is designed to be used with the USFS Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS). ► Deer density, soil, canopy openness and ironwood basal area drive regeneration. ► For high deer densities ironwood gains a competitive advantage over sugar maple. ► Sensitivity analyses show that the regeneration model is robust for use with FVS.