Managing for sustainable timber harvesting
Areas that are ecologically sensitive and could not recover from harvesting
(unsustainable) :
This decision is based on the following:
1) _______________________ (is the sustainability of the species threatened?)
2) _______________________ (will the removal of trees cause the soil to erode and
pollute waterways?)
3) _______________________ (will the soil have enough nutrients to support regrowth?) not possible in rain forests
4) _______________________ (is there appropriate amounts of rain and temperatures
ranges for the forest to re-grow) (is there a change in the amount of light)
5) _______________________ (are there any endangered or threatened species? Is the
wildlife sustainable?)
6) _______________________ (will it affect nearby ecosystems such as streams and
ponds? Does it fragment a larger ecosystem?
Seven Steps of Forest Management After Timber Harvesting
Once the harvesting operation is complete some or all of the following steps should be
done.
1) _______________________ – clear away the logging debris (duff and slash) with
equipment
2) _______________________ – Removes debris by burning. This is low in cost
and good for steep slopes.
3) _______________________ – Controls weeds with chemicals so trees don’t
compete for resource. May harm wildlife and remove cover.
4) _______________________ – Replant with genetically improved seedlings.
(most Pa forests will re-seed themselves)
5) _______________________ – remove overcrowded and poorly growing trees
6) _______________________ – Adds nutrients to the soil (usually not necessary)
7) _______________________ – Protect from fire, disease, and insect pests. This is
continuous.