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Adjusting Free-growing Guidance Regarding Aspen Retention in the Cariboo-Chilcotin - Research to Operational Implementation
This document details a research project in the Cariboo Region of British Columbia focused on revising free-growing guidelines to better account for the interactions between young conifer plantations and broadleaf trees, particularly trembling aspen....This document details a research project in the Cariboo Region of British Columbia focused on revising free-growing guidelines to better account for the interactions between young conifer plantations and broadleaf trees, particularly trembling aspen. The central theme is understanding the competitive relationships between aspen and various conifer species across different biogeoclimatic zones. Through long-term experimental studies and field verification, the researchers gathered data on tree growth, health, and density to propose scientifically supported adjustments to the regulations that determine when a reforested area is considered successfully established. The goal of this study was to create more ecologically informed and practically applicable guidelines that recognize the potential benefits of broadleaf presence while ensuring successful conifer regeneration for timber production. -
Site Preparation Alternatives in the Wet Cold ESSF - Results from Sicamous Creek
This extension note investigates the effects of different site preparation methods on a high-elevation wet, cold forest in British Columbia. The study examines the initial responses of planted and natural tree regeneration, soil properties, vegetati...This extension note investigates the effects of different site preparation methods on a high-elevation wet, cold forest in British Columbia. The study examines the initial responses of planted and natural tree regeneration, soil properties, vegetation, and biodiversity to these treatments within various harvesting systems. The report aims to provide guidance for operational decisions regarding site preparation in these challenging environments, considering both silvicultural success and broader ecological impacts. -
Carbon Sequestration in Managed Temperate Coniferous Forests Under Climate Change
This paper explores the future of carbon storage within these vital ecosystems of British Columbia. Using a computer model, the researchers investigated how interactions between tree species, fire, forest management, and a changing climate might affe...This paper explores the future of carbon storage within these vital ecosystems of British Columbia. Using a computer model, the researchers investigated how interactions between tree species, fire, forest management, and a changing climate might affect the ability of these forests to absorb and store carbon until 2050. A key aspect of their work was the introduction of a new metric, net sector productivity, which offers a more comprehensive way to account for carbon by including not only forest ecosystems but also harvested wood products. The study aimed to provide a better understanding for developing effective climate change mitigation and adaptive management strategies in these forests. -
Applying Resilience Concepts in Forest Management - A Retrospective Simulation Approach
This paper investigates how different forest management strategies impact the resilience of forests facing climate change, specifically a mountain pine beetle outbreak in British Columbia. The authors use a retrospective simulation approach from 1980...This paper investigates how different forest management strategies impact the resilience of forests facing climate change, specifically a mountain pine beetle outbreak in British Columbia. The authors use a retrospective simulation approach from 1980 to 2060 to compare business as usual practices with two alternative strategies: one focused on increasing the diversity of replanted trees, and another that combined early harvesting of susceptible pine with diversified reforestation. The study assesses resilience by examining ecological factors like growing stock and tree species diversity, alongside socio-economic indicators such as timber flow stability and net revenue, concluding that proactive management enhancing diversity and reducing high-risk species leads to greater overall forest resilience in the face of climate-related disturbances. -
Performance of Planted Engelmann Spruce and Subalpine Fir Seedlings in British Columbia's Southern Mountains
This paper details a study conducted in the southern mountains of British Columbia to assess the survival and growth of planted Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir seedlings in different sizes of harvested forest openings. The researchers compared see...This paper details a study conducted in the southern mountains of British Columbia to assess the survival and growth of planted Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir seedlings in different sizes of harvested forest openings. The researchers compared seedling performance across various silvicultural systems, noting that survival generally decreased with smaller opening sizes, while growth was best in larger clearcuts. The study aimed to provide insights into effective regeneration practices for high-elevation forests, considering factors like opening size, local climate, and species response. -
Effects of Variable Aspen Retention on Stand Development Aspen Sucker Production and Growth of Lodgepole Pine in the SBSdw1 Variant of South-central British Columbia
This technical report evaluates how varying levels of aspen retention influence the development of mixed-species forest stands in British Columbia, specifically focusing on the growth of lodgepole pine and the emergence of aspen suckers. By comparing...This technical report evaluates how varying levels of aspen retention influence the development of mixed-species forest stands in British Columbia, specifically focusing on the growth of lodgepole pine and the emergence of aspen suckers. By comparing different thinning intensities against an untreated control, the researchers sought to identify thresholds for competition that allow for optimal timber production while maintaining the ecological benefits of broadleaf trees. The findings indicate that while pine vigour improved when fewer than 1000 aspen stems per hectare were kept, significant differences in tree height and diameter were not yet apparent four years after treatment. Additionally, the study confirms that complete aspen removal triggers the highest density of new suckering, whereas leaving residual trees helps suppress this regrowth. This document serves as a guide for silviculturists to refine free-growing standards and develop cost-effective management strategies for complex sub-boreal ecosystems. -
Assessment of Silvicultural Practices in the Engelmann Spruce Subalpine Fir Zone in the Kamloops Forest Region
This document evaluates the long-term effectiveness of various silviculture practices and forest management techniques across the Engelmann Spruce-Subalpine Fir zones of British Columbia. By assessing historical research trials and logged areas in t...This document evaluates the long-term effectiveness of various silviculture practices and forest management techniques across the Engelmann Spruce-Subalpine Fir zones of British Columbia. By assessing historical research trials and logged areas in the southern interior, the document details why certain methods lead to regeneration success or failure, specifically noting the challenges of competing vegetation and harsh environmental conditions. The document is structured to provide a comprehensive analysis of site preparation methods, planting outcomes, and the quality of remaining trees, ultimately revealing that initial spruce growth is often slow and survival rates are frequently unsatisfactory. This document concludes with strategic recommendations for future study to better understand how elevation and plant competition influence the sustainable recovery of these high-altitude ecosystems. -
FRDA Vegetation Development After Clearcutting and Site Preparation in the SBS Zone
This FRDA Report #018 investigates how plant communities recover in the Sub-Boreal Spruce Zone following clearcutting and various types of site preparation, specifically comparing mechanical methods and prescribed burning. The central goal was to det...This FRDA Report #018 investigates how plant communities recover in the Sub-Boreal Spruce Zone following clearcutting and various types of site preparation, specifically comparing mechanical methods and prescribed burning. The central goal was to determine the precise rate of revegetation development and track the resulting shifts in floristic composition and structure across four key ecosystems within the region. By examining how different herb and shrub species survive and recolonize disturbed sites, the findings generate crucial data that informs the creation of predictive models and guides forest managers in planning effective silvicultural prescriptions and wildlife habitat objectives. This study provides a foundation for understanding the long-term ecological consequences of intensive forest management practices in British Columbia. -
FRDA Regeneration of Engelmann Spruce and Subalpine Fir in Southern British Columbia Following Clearcutting
This FRDA Research Memo #210 details a study on the natural regeneration of Engelmann Spruce and Subalpine Fir following clearcutting in southern British Columbia at high elevations. The study analyzed two years of data across multiple clearcut sites...This FRDA Research Memo #210 details a study on the natural regeneration of Engelmann Spruce and Subalpine Fir following clearcutting in southern British Columbia at high elevations. The study analyzed two years of data across multiple clearcut sites, investigating how factors like moisture regime, treatment type, and slope aspect affected the resulting stocking and growth of the seedlings. Key findings included that regeneration was generally successful, though sites with higher moisture and those facing south had better stocking, and that treatments that promoted mineral soil exposure significantly increased seedling density and growth for both species. The document offers management implications, suggesting that reliance solely on natural regeneration at high elevations may require reassessing expected timelines for regrowth. -
Post Fire Vegetation Regeneration During Abnormally Dry Years Following Severe Montane Fire - Southern Alberta, Canada
This paper investigates the patterns of post-fire vegetation regeneration in two climatically distinct sites in Waterton Lakes National Park, Canada, following a severe montane fire and subsequent abnormally dry conditions. The study aimed to quantif...This paper investigates the patterns of post-fire vegetation regeneration in two climatically distinct sites in Waterton Lakes National Park, Canada, following a severe montane fire and subsequent abnormally dry conditions. The study aimed to quantify the recovery trajectories of herbaceous understory and conifer seedlings over five years, revealing that site environmental conditions were more influential than inter-annual drought in determining recovery. Notably, the moist site exhibited greater herbaceous biomass accumulation while the drier site demonstrated significantly higher lodgepole pine seedling recruitment, indicating a complex ecological resilience to drought in fire-prone montane ecosystems. This paper affirmed the utility of remotely piloted aircraft systems for spatially monitoring changes in vegetation height, cover, and biomass after a disturbance. -
Stock Type Selection and Ordering Guidelines
This document assists silviculturists in British Columbia with the process of stock type selection for reforestation efforts. The document details the characteristics and definitions of both container-grown and field-grown stock, emphasizing that the...This document assists silviculturists in British Columbia with the process of stock type selection for reforestation efforts. The document details the characteristics and definitions of both container-grown and field-grown stock, emphasizing that the correct choice significantly impacts a plantation's survival and early growth. Key sections are dedicated to factors influencing selection, such as species, site limiting factors, and logistics related to ordering and tracking stock types, as well as proper receiving and handling stock upon delivery. This document serves as a comprehensive reference to match specific seedling characteristics with site-specific conditions and cost considerations. -
Analysis of a Skyline Partial Cutting Operation in the Interior Cedar Hemlock Biogeoclimatic Zone
This technical report presents an analysis of a skyline partial cutting operation conducted in British Columbia's Interior Cedar-Hemlock zone. The primary goal was to evaluate the economic and operational feasibility of using a specific cable yarding...This technical report presents an analysis of a skyline partial cutting operation conducted in British Columbia's Interior Cedar-Hemlock zone. The primary goal was to evaluate the economic and operational feasibility of using a specific cable yarding system to meet modern silvicultural goals in this ecosystem. This report confirmed the importance of careful logging planning and developed productivity functions to help forest engineers predict and optimize the use of single- and multi-span skyline configurations in future partial cuts. -
Commercial Thinning Experiments in the Horsefly Forest District
This document is a detailed report summarizing a commercial thinning experiment in the Horsefly Forest District in British Columbia. The primary goal was to assess the operational feasibility of commercial thinning as an alternative silviculture trea...This document is a detailed report summarizing a commercial thinning experiment in the Horsefly Forest District in British Columbia. The primary goal was to assess the operational feasibility of commercial thinning as an alternative silviculture treatment, particularly focusing on developing higher-valued timber stands. The report delves into numerous technical and environmental issues, including desired crop tree characteristics, hydrological stability, and windthrow and snow-damage, backed by exhaustive production reports from the harvesting machinery and detailed snow breakage and crown growth surveys. The study concluded that commercial thinning is an operationally viable option within the Cariboo Forest Region, providing continued access to merchantable stands. -
Factors Influencing the Density of Natural Regeneration in Uniform Shelterwoods Dominated by Douglas-fir in the Sub-Boreal Spruce Zone
This study investigates the factors influencing natural regeneration in uniform shelterwood systems, specifically focusing on Douglas-fir in the Sub-Boreal Spruce Zone. The study details methods for assessing seedfall density, seed predation, seedbed...This study investigates the factors influencing natural regeneration in uniform shelterwood systems, specifically focusing on Douglas-fir in the Sub-Boreal Spruce Zone. The study details methods for assessing seedfall density, seed predation, seedbed distribution, and the germination and survival rates of seedlings under various harvesting treatments. The core purpose is to understand how these elements interact to determine successful conifer regeneration, particularly noting that rotting wood and mineral soil are superior seedbeds compared to forest floor and moss, and that while harvesting can increase mineral soil exposure, it is often insufficient to maximize regeneration without additional scarification. The findings suggest that while all tested shelterwood methods promote adequate regeneration and frost protection, lower residual basal areas combined with significant forest floor disturbance are most favorable for Douglas-fir seedling growth and survival. -
Describing Old Growth Forests in the Boreal Foothills Natural Disturbance Unit
This report examines how to define and identify old-growth forests in the Boreal Foothills of British Columbia, emphasizing that age alone is an insufficient measure. It introduces an index of old-growthness, a quantitative scoring system based on mu...This report examines how to define and identify old-growth forests in the Boreal Foothills of British Columbia, emphasizing that age alone is an insufficient measure. It introduces an index of old-growthness, a quantitative scoring system based on multiple structural attributes like tree and snag diameters, coarse woody debris volume, and the presence of specific wildlife habitat features. The study aims to move beyond simple age-based classifications, providing forest managers with a more biologically meaningful tool to assess and conserve these vital ecosystems, acknowledging that structural characteristics, rather than just age, are the true indicators of an old-growth forest's ecological value. -
Recent Changes in Aboveground Live-Tree Carbon in Spruce and Fir-Dominated Sub-Boreal Forests in the BC Interior
This extension note investigates recent changes in aboveground live-tree carbon within spruce and fir-dominated sub-boreal forests in the interior of British Columbia. The study specifically re-evaluated carbon stocks between 20032004 and 2018 at the...This extension note investigates recent changes in aboveground live-tree carbon within spruce and fir-dominated sub-boreal forests in the interior of British Columbia. The study specifically re-evaluated carbon stocks between 20032004 and 2018 at the Aleza Lake Research Forest to understand how carbon storage is impacted by tree species and size. The authors found that while younger forest stands generally accumulated carbon, older stands with larger trees showed a decline in aboveground live-tree carbon, largely due to increased mortality of these large trees. This highlights a critical concern regarding the role of mature forests in carbon sequestration amidst accelerating climate change and increasing tree mortality rates. -
The Shelterwood Silvicultural System in British Columbia - A Practitioner's Guide. Part 3 Operational Implementation
This guide serves as a practical manual for foresters looking to implement the shelterwood cutting method in British Columbia. As the third part of a three-part series, this guide builds upon previous parts by focusing on the specific harvesting oper...This guide serves as a practical manual for foresters looking to implement the shelterwood cutting method in British Columbia. As the third part of a three-part series, this guide builds upon previous parts by focusing on the specific harvesting operations involved in this silvicultural system. The guide emphasizes that each harvest entry is a deliberate silvicultural treatment designed to manipulate the forest environment to achieve regeneration and stand-tending objectives, highlighting key considerations like protecting the soil, existing trees, and new growth while promoting a favorable environment for the next forest generation. -
Combining Thinning and Diverse Plantings to Adapt to Climate Change Induced Timber Supply Shortage in British Columbia
This paper explores strategies to mitigate timber supply shortages in British Columbia (BC), a problem exacerbated by climate change and past natural disturbances like the mountain pine beetle outbreak. The authors investigate two primary forest mana...This paper explores strategies to mitigate timber supply shortages in British Columbia (BC), a problem exacerbated by climate change and past natural disturbances like the mountain pine beetle outbreak. The authors investigate two primary forest management approaches: commercial thinning and diverse plantings, including assisted species migration. By simulating the long-term effects of these interventions in a case study area, the study concludes that combining commercial thinning with species diversification offers the most promising solution to sustain future timber supply in BC, emphasizing the importance of adaptive forest management in the face of environmental challenges. -
Evaluating the Effects of Partial Cutting on Wildlife, Trees, and Coarse Woody Debris
This paper explores the effects of partial cutting, a forest management technique aimed at creating stands similar to natural uneven-aged forests, on wildlife trees and coarse woody debris in the wet forests of interior British Columbia. The authors ...This paper explores the effects of partial cutting, a forest management technique aimed at creating stands similar to natural uneven-aged forests, on wildlife trees and coarse woody debris in the wet forests of interior British Columbia. The authors introduce a new classification system based on functional habitat features ("Types") of these dead and dying wood components that are crucial for various wildlife species. By presenting preliminary data from a long-term study, the paper investigates how different partial cutting methods, specifically single tree selection and group selection, influence the occurrence of these vital habitat structures, ultimately seeking to inform forest management practices for biodiversity conservation. -
Using Partial Cutting to Reduce Susceptibility of Mature Lodgepole Pine Stands to Mountain Pine Beetle Attacks - Beetle Proofing
This extension note presents a case study on using partial cutting to reduce the susceptibility of mature Lodgepole Pine stands to Mountain Pine Beetle attacks, a process termed Beetle Proofing. The document details the objectives and criteria for t...This extension note presents a case study on using partial cutting to reduce the susceptibility of mature Lodgepole Pine stands to Mountain Pine Beetle attacks, a process termed Beetle Proofing. The document details the objectives and criteria for this forestry practice, emphasizing proper layout, experienced logging contractors, and a commitment to overall parties. It outlines the harvesting and silviculture systems involved, explaining how selective removal of trees aims to create a stand structure that is less vulnerable to beetle infestations, rather than a clear-cut approach. This document serves as a guide for forest management, outlining management objectives and planning for sustainable timber production and biodiversity while mitigating the impact of MPB in the British Columbia interior.
