Table 1 Definitions of different forest management regimes excluding unmanaged forests. Common synonyms are also given
Forest management regime | Synonyms | Definition |
|---|---|---|
Even-aged forest management | Clear-cutting, clear-felling | Management method that produces relatively homogenous forest structures. Forest regeneration is achieved by natural regeneration, sowing or planting and stand development controlled by thinnings and regeneration felling. During the regeneration felling in the clear-cutting method most trees in the area are removeda. In case of natural regeneration, individual seed trees are left in the area (i.e. seed tree cutting is performed) |
Leaving retention trees | Management method almost similar to clear-cutting, but some individual trees (dead or alive) or tree groups are left standing during the regeneration fell. Leaving retention trees aims at maintaining some of the key structures of native forest ecosystems to enhance the structural diversity of the harvesting area and provide habitat continuity for species | |
Even-aged or uneven-aged forest management | Shelterwood cutting | During shelterwood cutting large number of mature trees are left in the area to regenerate the area naturally and to provide shelter (less harsh environmental conditions) for the new growth. It involves cutting trees in a series of cuttings to allow existing seedlings to grow and new ones to establish themselves before mature trees are removed. Mostly used to create even-aged stands but shelterwood system can be used to create uneven-aged stands if some of the shelter trees are maintained over a long regeneration period |
Uneven-aged forest management | Continuous cover forestry, selection system, selective cutting/felling, selection cutting/felling, partial cutting/felling, gap cutting/felling, patch cutting/felling | Management method where some of the trees are removed in one harvest. Forest regenerates through the trees left standing. The forest structure is maintained heterogenous over time by harvesting. This can be achieved by single-tree selection (selective felling) or group selection (gap felling) |