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FRDA Mechanical Site Preparation and Seedling Establishment in the IDFdk MSxk and ESSFxc Subzones
This FRDA Research Memo #218 investigates the effectiveness of various mechanical site preparation methods, specifically disc trenching, patch scarification, and ripping, on the establishment of conifer seedlings across three different biogeoclimatic...This FRDA Research Memo #218 investigates the effectiveness of various mechanical site preparation methods, specifically disc trenching, patch scarification, and ripping, on the establishment of conifer seedlings across three different biogeoclimatic subzones in British Columbia's interior. The study sought to determine the optimal mechanical treatment and the most favorable microsite planting positions for seedling survival and growth, particularly focusing on mitigating frost damage. After five years, results consistently showed that disc trenching and ripperdrag treatments offered the best outcomes across the subzones, with the specific microsite preference varying based on site moisture and elevation to best protect against environmental stressors like frost and drowning. -
British Columbia's Interior Fisher Wildlife Habitat Decision Aid
This document synthesizes scientific and experiential knowledge regarding the habitat needs of fishers, a forest-dependent carnivore considered a Species at Risk. The guide offers practical considerations for managing forests within fisher territorie...This document synthesizes scientific and experiential knowledge regarding the habitat needs of fishers, a forest-dependent carnivore considered a Species at Risk. The guide offers practical considerations for managing forests within fisher territories, covering aspects like denning, resting, and foraging habitats, aiming to help maintain essential resources during forestry operations such as harvesting and silviculture. This document seeks to integrate fisher conservation with forest management practices in British Columbia's interior. -
Reforesting Dry Sites in the Thompson Okanagan Natural Resource Region
This document is a comprehensive guide to address the increasing challenges of establishing healthy forests on drought-prone lands. Recognizing the impact of climate change and high seedling mortality, the report meticulously examines current silvicu...This document is a comprehensive guide to address the increasing challenges of establishing healthy forests on drought-prone lands. Recognizing the impact of climate change and high seedling mortality, the report meticulously examines current silviculture practices and relevant research to identify best management practices for improved regeneration success. It provides a drought risk key for practitioners to classify sites and recommends specific treatment regimes encompassing planning, harvesting, mechanical site preparation, planting considerations, and post-planting surveys. The purpose of this guide is to offer practical, experience-based guidance to forest managers in the Thompson Okanagan region to enhance the resilience and successful reforestation of dry sites facing heightened drought risk.