bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Timber supply analysis: An industrial model from British Columbia
Authors: Carson David M.
Published: February 2014

Modelling processes are being introduced to improve the integration of various resource management objectives. As a mechanism to protect non-timber values, the BC Ministry of Forests has implemented forest cover constraints which place area-based maximum and minimum limits on harvest disturbance and old growth retention, respectively, within forest management zones. Timberline Forest Inventory Consultants has developed a proprietary model that explicitly deals with resource demands such as visual quality objectives, habitat protection measures, and water quality protection guidelines. The model uses a pseudo-geographic inventory to simulate the intent of forest cover constraints on harvesting. A variable degree of spatial resolution is available depending on inventory formulation and management zone definition. Key words: British Columbia, integrated resource management, modelling, forest cover constraints, spatial resolution
Evaluation of stem taper functions for estimating log volume assortments
Authors: Gál J. , Bella I. E.
Published: February 2014

Using three recently fitted taper functions, this note evaluates the accuracy and precision of log volume assortment estimates for five major Saskatchewan timber species. All three functions showed similarly good performance for the five species examined. The results indicated that the magnitude of both absolute bias and standard error of estimate depended on the average volume of the particular log assortments; larger average volumes had greater bias and standard errors of estimate. The coefficients of variation were inversely related to average log assortment volume, with the smallest assortment volumes having the largest coefficients. This results from the high variation relative to those small averages. This also means that estimates of log volume assortments would always be less accurate than those of the entire merchantable stem. Key words: forest mensuaration, Saskatchewan, log volume estimation, stem taper functions
Estimation of potential evapotranspiration with shallow lysimeters in a forest tree nursery
Authors: Stein Jean , Caissy Richard , Plamondon André P. , Bernier Pierre Y.
Published: February 2014

Daily evapotranspiration values (ETL) were obtained during three consecutive summers from water balance measurements on eight shallow drainable lysimeters in similarly planted nursery beds of either white spruce [Picea glauca (Moench) Voss] or black spruce [Picea mariana (Mill) B.S.P.]. Values of ETL and of potential evapotranspiration (PET), calculated with the Penman equation, were nearly equal for most of the sampled days during the first two years. During the last year of study, the ratio ETL/PET was reduced to 0.8 due to a lack of water input (precipitation and irrigation) to the lysimeters. Water balance measurements from the surrounding seedling beds showed that values of actual evapotranspiration (AET) for the first two years were 0.61 times those of either PET or ETL. Rates of evapotranspiration in the lysimeters remained high because of the high water contents in the shallow lysimeters induced by the presence of a zero tension plane at the base of the lysimeters, above the drainage holes. Results indicate that well-watered shallow lysimeters can be used to estimate values of PET and be used directly for the purpose of driving water balance models for irrigation scheduling. Key words: water relations, irrigation scheduling, lysimeters, evapotranspiration, white spruce, black spruce
Silviculture and wildlife relationships in the boreal forest of Interior Alaska
Authors: Haggstrom D. A. , Kelleyhouse D. G.
Published: February 2014

Wildlife diversity and abundance are directly tied to the ever changing nature of the boreal forest. Wildland fire and fluvial action have been primarily responsible for maintaining diversity and productivity. However, there is an increasing need to protect people, human developments and a forest base for timber harvest from natural disturbances. Differences between logging, prescribed fire and wildland fire, and their effects on wildlife are discussed. We also discuss the value of riparian and late successional forest types within the boreal forest, our concerns for proposals that seek to optimize timber harvests for large areas, and some professional, political, economic and biological challenges facing managers who attempt to supplement or supplant natural processes with silvicultural practices. We conclude by urging forest managers to make decisions carefully, based on the best environmental science available, with full public and agency involvement, and with the understanding that there is still much to be learned about the boreal forest ecosystem. Key words: boreal forest, wildlife, wildland fire, clearcut logging, old growth
Indirect site productivity models for white spruce in Alberta's boreal mixedwood forest
Authors: Hostin Paul J. , Titus Stephen J.
Published: February 2014

Multiple linear regression models are presented for boreal mixed-wood stands that predict white spruce [Picea glauca (Moench) Voss] site productivity as a function of trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) productivity. Site productivity was measured using both age-referenced and diameter-referenced site indices. Average tree and stand attributes, and environmental parameters that describe topographic and soil conditions were examined for their suitability as additional independent variables in the two basic productivity models. The inclusion of additional regressors provided substantial increases in the explanation of variance over the models which used the site productivity measures alone. The best age-referenced model yielded an R2value of 0.794 while the best diameter-referenced model produced an R2of 0.908. Key words: indicator variables, indirect site productivity estimation, mixedwood, multiple linear regression, site comparisons, site index, site productivity, trembling aspen, white spruce
Forest inventory update in Canada
Authors: Gillis Mark D. , Leckie Donald G.
Published: February 2014

Modern forest management presents ever increasing demands for accurate and up-to-date forest inventory information. The process of inventory update is critical. Inventory update in Canada is examined including update for harvest, burns, insect and disease, silviculture, roads and other changes. The magnitude and requirements of the update task are documented. The procedures used are described and summarized by province in table form. Usage, advantages and disadvantages of current methods (e.g. conventional 9 × 9 aerial photography, supplemental aerial photography, satellite imagery, and aerial reconnaissance) are examined, new methods discussed and trends highlighted. Also outlined are issues related to the incorporation of silviculture and insect and disease information into inventories and the structure and responsibilities for update. Key words: forest inventory, inventory update, harvest, burns, insect and disease, blowdown, silviculture, aerial photography, satellite imagery, Global Positioning System, aerial reconnaissance, video
Wood moisture content variation in white spruce defoliated by spruce budworm
Authors: Ip David W. , Pines Irene L. , Westwood A. Richard
Published: February 2014

Mature and over mature white spruce [Picea glauca (Moench) Voss] repeatedly defoliated by spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana Clem.) in eastern Manitoba, were investigated for variation in moisture content (MC) which is known to influence pulping quality. In the fall of 1991, 100 trees in the Abitibi-Price Inc. Forest Management Licence area were selected randomly in two size classes and four defoliation classes. Heartwood and sapwood MC (% dry weight) was measured in 5-cm thick disks cut at 2.5 to 5.0 m intervals for small and large trees, respectively. Living trees with more sapwood than heartwood had a mean MC of 117%, and those with more heartwood than sapwood had a mean MC of 77%. Both of these groups contained sufficient overall moisture (> 45%) for pulping. The repeated defoliation did not affect the overall MC in live trees. Mean MC of trees killed by spruce budworm defoliation was 42% but this level varied with diameter and height above ground: > 45% in stems greater than 36 cm diameter inside bark, 30–60% in sections 17–36 cm, and < 45% in sections less than 17 cm. A minimum DBH of 30 cm is suggested as a criterion for accepting dead trees. Key words: insect defoliation impact, wood moisture content, sapwood, heartwood, dead tree fibre, Manitoba
Independent forest stewardship auditing
Authors: Beaumont Rod W.
Published: February 2014

Weldwood of Canada Limited considers independent auditing of forest stewardship and practices to be an essential component of Sustainable Forest Management (SFM). The commitment to continuous improvement implied by SFM requires a management openness and transparency that is best served through the credibility of independent assessment. Key words: environmental auditing, forest sustainability
Abilities required by professional foresters in practice
Authors: Zundel P. E. , Needham T. D.
Published: February 2014

To meet the changing educational needs of forestry practice, a clear understanding of what foresters and forest engineers do is required. This paper presents the results of a facilitated DACUM workshop in which 10 foresters and forest engineers from across Canada were asked to define the abilities required by foresters in practice. The DACUM process is a job analysis technique that identifies the tasks and duties performed by a competent practitioner. A consensus was reached by the participants on the following general areas of competence: Demonstrate a level of comfort in the woods; apply basic forest operational practices; demonstrate an understanding of economic and resource values; communicate; interact successfully with people; structure problem-solving and decision-making; supervise effectively; manage a working unit; demonstrate an understanding of forest policy and legislation and demonstrate a commitment to life-long learning. A series of analytical frameworks to evaluate the results are presented and the forestry community is asked to respond. Key words: forestry, professional practice, education, learning, competence, DACUM, job analysis, curriculum, teaching, continuing education, certification
Northeastern Ontario Forest Ecosystem Classification as a tool for managing marten habitat
Authors: Bowman J. C. , Robitaille J.-F. , Watt W. R.
Published: February 2014

In northeastern Ontario, the Forest Ecosystem Classification (NE-FEC) system has been used in a Habitat Suitability Matrix (NE-HSM) for forest wildlife. This paper examines whether American martens (Martes americana) responded significantly to different NE-FEC Site Types, and compares this response with suitability values in the NE-HSM. Use of Site Types by martens deviated significantly from availability; Site Type 5 (black spruce) was preferred and Site Type 7 (hardwood) was avoided. In general, the NE-HSM was consistent with field results; but it was concluded that some adjustments should be made to the suitability values for martens in the Northeastern Ontario Forest Habitat Suitability Matrix. Key words: Forest ecosystem classification, habitat suitability matrix, marten, Martes americana
Forest certification and Canadian forestry — An overview and update
Authors: Armson Kenneth A.
Published: February 2014

Forest certification is the identification and recognition that a forest management system and the specific forest to which it is applied has met agreed-to standards and requirements. The relatively recent interest in certification stems from three intertwined roots. These are social, market-place and professional. It was the concept of sustainable development in the late 1980s which provided the soil in which the roots would flourish. The development of certification schemes has varied depending on whether or not the focus was on a forest product or the forest and its management. The use of external independent audits as central to the assurance of credibility for the certification process is generally accepted. Differences and disagreements about certification have related mainly to what was being certified, the process of developing standards, and who would control certification. All certification schemes must have international credibility if they are to address market-place concerns, and therefore they must be trade-neutral. Within the jurisdiction within which they operate, they should be equally applicable to all forest conditions and ownerships. The initiation of forest certification is a watershed for Canadian forestry and foresters.
Influence of alternative conifer release treatments on soil nutrient movement
Authors: Simpson J. A. , Gordon A. M. , Gresch D. , Reynolds P. E. , Buckley D. , Lautenschlager R. A. , Bell F. W.
Published: February 2014

Zero tension soil solution samplers were used to collect soil solution at 75 cm for one and one-half years after the following treatments: 1) helicopter applied Release® silvicultural herbicide (a.e. triclopyr @ 1.9 kg a.e. ha−1), and 2) helicopter applied Vision® silvicultural herbicide (a.e. glyphosate @ 1.5 kg a.e. ha−1); 3) motor-manual cutting (brush saws); and 4) control (no treatment). Results show no substantial treatment related differences in the movement of selected nutrients (total organic N, NH4+, NO3−; K, Ca) among these treatments. Mean nitrate concentration was less than 1.5 μg mL−1 throughout the sampling period and was marginally higher, but not statistically different, following release treatments. Key words: alternative conifer release treatments, brushcutting, calcium, ecosystem research, Fallingsnow Ecosystem Project, glyphosate, herbicides, nutrients, nitrogen, potassium, soil solution, tending, triclopyr, vegetation management
Alternative conifer release treatments affect leaf area index of competing vegetation and available light for seedling growth
Authors: Reynolds Phillip E. , Buckley Donald A. , Simpson James A. , Gordon Andrew M. , Gresch Donald A. , Bell F. Wayne , Lautenschlager R. A.
Published: February 2014

Leaf area index (LAI) of competing vegetation and photosynthetically-active radiation (PAR) for spruce seedling growth were measured during the first growing season after alternative conifer release treatments [brush saw, Silvana Selective, Release® (a.i., triclopyr) herbicide, Vision® (a.i., glyphosate) herbicide], and control (no treatment) were applied. Bareroot white [Picea glauca (Moench) Voss] and black [Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.] spruce were planted between 1987 and 1991, and averaged 82 cm height in 1993 compared with 2.6 m for major competitors. Treatments were applied in 1993, the primary competitor being trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.). After the first growing season following treatments, LAI at seedling base differed (P = 0.002) among treatments, ranging from 2.04 (Vision®) to 3.88 (control) m2 m−2. The Vision® treatment had significantly lower LAI than the brush saw, Silvana Selective, and Release® treatments (means = 2.76,2.76, and 2.74 m2 m−2 respectively), and the control treatment had significantly greater LAI than all other treatments. LAI correlated well (r = 0.81) with measured competition levels, increasing as competition levels increased. Mean tip angle (MTA) did not differ among treatments, but was higher for the Vision® treatment, presumably because of lower deciduous tree and shrub cover. Available light (PAR) decreased as LAI increased r = −0.90). In 1994, few released seedlings were overtopped by competing vegetation, and available PAR at leader height was generally 100%. For control seedlings, available PAR at leader height varied among blocks, ranging from 20 to 50%. PAR at seedling base differed among treatments, was lowest (13%) for controls, highest (36%) for the Vision®, and intermediate (~ 26%) for all other treatments. Available PAR on a whole seedling basis (i.e. avg. of leader and base) ranged from 25% for control seedlings to 68% for seedlings released with Vision®. Key words: Fallingsnow Ecosystem Project, white spruce, black spruce, trembling aspen, Vision® (glyphosate), Release® (triclopyr), leaf area index (LAI), mean tip angle (MTA), competition indices, photosynthetically-active radiation (PAR), vegetation management, plant succession
Indirect effects of conifer release alternatives on songbird populations in northwestern Ontario
Authors: Woodcock John , Ryder John P. , Lautenschlager R. A. , Bell F. Wayne
Published: February 2014

The effects of conifer-release alternatives on songbird densities (determined by territory mapping, mist netting, and banding) in four young (four to seven year old) spruce plantations were examined. Twenty to 38 (block dependent) species bred on each treatment block. Post-treatment data revealed no major treatment-related changes in breeding bird species composition. The mean density of all birds decreased from 6.9 pairs ha−1pre-treatment, to 6.3 pairs ha−1in the first post-treatment growing season (P > 0.05). Mean densities of the 11 most common species increased by 0.35 ha−1on the control plots during the first post-treatment growing season, but decreased on treated plots by 1.1 ha−1(brush saw), 1.6 ha−1(Silvana Selective), 0.14 ha−1(Release®) and 0.72 ha−1(Vision®). Following the conifer-release treatments, Chestnut-sided Warbler (Dendroica pensylvanica) had lower (P < 0.05) mean densities on the brush saw- and Silvana Selective-treated plots than on the control plots and fewer (P < 0.05) female birds were captured in the first post-treatment year. Key words: brush saw, Chestnut-sided Warbler, conifer-release, Fallingsnow Ecosystem Project, glyphosate, mist netting, Silvana Selective, songbirds, territory mapping, triclopyr
Trees, people, food and soil: A case study of participatory development in Malawi
Authors: Park Andrew
Published: February 2014

In rural Malawi, rapid population growth has contributed to deforestation, land and other chronic resource scarcities. In 1995, a team of Canadian graduate students and Malawian extension workers investigated and attempted to find solutions to specific local resource scarcities. Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) was used to assess total resource supply, evaluate food security and gender issues, facilitate village fuelwood action plan and inquire into the non-adoption of a tree nursery scheme. This article relates the team's experiences and insights against reviews of the history of forestry in Malawi, recent initiatives in forestry extension, and the current condition of Malawi's indigenous woodlands. It is concluded that villagers are willing to plant trees provided their costs are minimized and maize production is not compromised. Key words: Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), participatory development, refugee affected areas, deforestation; indigenous trees, fuelwood
Forestry education in Canada
Authors: Godbout Claude
Published: February 2014

This paper aims at providing the reader with information about the forestry education system in Canada and its trends. As a basis for undertanding the framework of forestry education, a general picture of the Canadian forest sector is drawn and the main issues and concerns that will shape its evolution in the near future are presented.In a second part, after having described the current forestry education system with some emphasis on the university level, a summary of the challenges facing forestry education is presented. In the last part, a practical example of program revision influenced by these trends and challenges is presented in order to convey to the reader how a revised university forestry program can be designed to meet society's needs.
Characterization of Sitka × interior spruce hybrids: A biotechnological approach to seedlot determination
Authors: Grossnickle Steven C. , Sutton Ben C. S. , Fan Shihe , King John
Published: February 2014

The Nass Skeena Transition is an area located in British Columbia (BC), Canada, where a large introgression zone occurs between Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr.) and interior spruce (white spruce, Picea glauca (Moench) Voss × Engelmann spruce, Picea engelmannii Parry ex. Engelm.). When these species hybridize in this transition area, forestry programs face special problems in identifying seedlots that have the desired genetic makeup of source material collected from traditional seed zones. This paper presents an overview of a program that combined the disciplines of molecular genetics and ecophysiology to assist in defining the genetic makeup of seedlots based on DNA analysis results. Research first identified chloroplast, mitochondrial and nuclear DNA probes that were used to estimate species components for Sitka × interior spruce hybrid seedlots. Seedlings produced from Sitka × interior spruce hybrid seedlots were then characterized for ecophysiological parameters of drought tolerance, freezing tolerance and gas exchange patterns. DNA analysis results were then compared to ecophysiological parameters and findings indicated that seed source DNA profiles were related to drought tolerance throughout the year, freezing tolerance during fall acclimation and gas exchange patterns during the summer season. Using standard seed zone deployment practices in conjunction with these scientific findings provided a more comprehensive approach for defining seed transfer guidelines of Sitka and interior spruce populations. This program provided an example of how the field of biotechnology was used to assist in defining a seed deployment strategy for a region where introgression is a common occurrence between Sitka and interior spruce populations. Key words: biotechnology, molecular genetics, ecophysiology, Sitka spruce, interior spruce, introgression zone, seedlot deployment.
Effects of perturbations and stimulants on red raspberry (Rubus idaeusL.) seed germination
Authors: Lautenschlager R. A.
Published: February 2014

Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) seeds germinate only after seed coats are degraded. In nature this happens slowly. Seeds from recently collected fruit (fresh to four years old) germinated only after scarification of the seed coat by 20-minute soaking in concentrated sulfuric acid. Germination was not enhanced by: (1) short-term intermittent soaking, up to 81 hours, in dilute (0.01 normal) hydrochloric acid; (2) passage through the digestive tracts of bears, coyotes, or birds; (3) physical perturbations such as nicking, mechanical scarification, repeated freezing and thawing and/or four years of exposure in the field; (4) exposure to light; (5) increased temperatures or temperature fluctuations; or (6) addition of nitrogen (ammonium nitrate, urea). Key words: animal passage, germination, nitrogen, red raspberry, Rubus idaeus L., seed coat, seed weight, scarification, stratification
Use of remote sensing for forest vegetation management: A problem analysis
Authors: Pitt Douglas G. , Wagner Robert G. , Hall Ronald J. , King Douglas J. , Leckie Donald G. , Runesson Ulf
Published: February 2014

Forest managers require accurate and timely data that describe vegetation conditions on cutover areas to assess vegetation development and prescribe actions necessary to achieve forest regeneration objectives. Needs for such data are increasing with current emphasis on ecosystem management, escalating silvicultural treatment costs, evolving computer-based decision support tools, and demands for greater accountability. Deficiencies associated with field survey methods of data acquisition (e.g. high costs, subjectivity, and low spatial and temporal coverage) frequently limit decision-making effectiveness. The potential for remotely sensed data to supplement field-collected forest vegetation management data was evaluated in a problem analysis consisting of a comprehensive literature review and consultation with remote sensing and vegetation management experts at a national workshop. Among curently available sensors, aerial photographs appear to offer the most suitable combination of characteristics, including high spatial resolution, stereo coverage, a range of image scales, a variety of film, lens, and camera options, capability for geometric correction, versatility, and moderate cost. A flexible strategy that employs a sequence of 1:10,000-, 1:5,000-, and 1:500-scale aerial photographs is proposed to: 1) accurately map cutover areas, 2) facilitate location-specific prescriptions for silvicultural treatments, sampling, buffer zones, wildlife areas, etc., and 3) monitor and document conditions and activities at specific points during the regeneration period. Surveys that require very detailed information on smaller plants (<0.5-m tall) and/or individual or rare plant species are not likely to be supported by current remote sensing technologies. Recommended areas for research include : 1) digital frame cameras, or other cost-effective digital imagers, as replacements for conventional cameras, 2) computer-based classification and interpretation algorithms for digital image data, 3) relationships between image measures and physical measures, such as leaf-area index and biomass, 4) imaging standards, 5) airborne video, laser altimeters, and radar as complementary sensors, and 6) remote sensing applications in partial cutting systems. Key words: forest vegetation management, regeneration, remote sensing, aerial photography
The status of forest regeneration in Canada
Authors: Haddon Brian
Published: February 2014

The regenerating land base of Crown forest lands harvested under even-aged forest management systems since 1975 was about 14 million ha in 1995. Most harvested areas are regenerating successfully. Natural regeneration plays a much bigger role in Canadian forestry than planting or seeding. The area of forest land that remains understocked after harvesting is shrinking. The data presented were provided through the REGEN component of the National Forestry Database Program by the provincial and territorial agencies responsible for the management of forest resources in their jurisdictions. Key words: forest inventory, forest regeneration, Canadian forests
Traditional land use and occupancy studies and their impact on forest planning and management in Alberta
Authors: Robinson M. P. , Ross M. M.
Published: February 2014

Canada is an international leader in the methodology of traditional land use and occupancy mapping as a result of the negotiation process for settling comprehensive land claims in the North. Since the early 1980s this methodology has found increasing application in the Canadian mid-North, especially in the context of forest planning and management in the northern Alberta Forest Management Agreement (FMA) areas. The goals of traditional land use and occupancy mapping in these FMAs include collection and preservation of traditional environmental knowledge, integration of this knowledge into forest planning and management and, for the Aboriginal communities, active participation in decision-making processes in order to attain sustainable forest management. While the first goal is often met in mapping projects, goals two and three are proving harder to achieve because of conflicting government policy agendas, differing paradigms of community development in society at large, and the lack of recognition and legal protection for Treaty and Aboriginal rights. Key words: traditional land use and occupancy studies, traditional environmental knowledge, bush economy, co-management
Seminatural silviculture in Southwest Germany
Authors: Spathelf Peter
Published: February 2014

A brief historical overview shows the mainstream development pattern in German silviculture and outlines the adjacent role of naturally-oriented silviculture. The rationale for seminatural silviculture is discussed with reference to its ecological and economical aspects. Elements of seminatural silviculture of the Baden-Württemberg-concept are introduced. This concept is not purely a preservation strategy, but recognises the importance of timber production. Some aspects of selection forests, such as the special case of uneven-aged forests with a long tradition in Southwest Germany, are mentioned. As there are still a lot of even-aged (pure) forests in Southwest Germany, transformation strategies towards uneven-aged mixed forests are shown with the aid of some examples.Criteria and indicators for seminatural silviculture which have to be developed on a regional or local scale, can be used as a basis for establishing a certification process for Southwest German forests. Seminatural silviculture is suited as a rational and integrating silvicultural system to fulfil future requirements on forests in a dynamically changing world. Key words: seminatural silviculture, selection forests, transformation strategies, indicators of seminatural silviculture
The Eastern Ontario Model Forest: Acting locally, connecting globally
Authors: Barkley Brian , Patry Marc , Virc Steve , Story Patti
Published: February 2014

The Eastern Ontario Model Forest was created in 1992 as a grassroots organization, representing a wide diversity of players interested in Eastern Ontario's extensive privately-owned forested and agricultural lands. An initial series of intensive meetings eventually led to the adoption of an innovative board structure with strong representation from the membership at large including seats for industry, First Nations and provincial government and a constitution based on consensual decision-making. The Eastern Ontario Model Forest recognized the knowledge it would gain in developing sustainable forestry activities. From the outset, it clearly expressed in its goals and objectives a desire to participate in global initiatives for sustainable forestry, such as the development of criteria and indicators. Simultaneously, the Eastern Ontario Model Forest sought to become involved, again at the grassroots level, with a similar Model Forest outside of Canada. It established a unique twinning relationship with the Calakmul Model Forest in Mexico to enhance the flow of knowledge and experience between people faced with similar challenges. The experience gained from the Eastern Ontario Model Forest members' participation in local, national, global and back down to local Mexican forestry issues has helped improve the understanding and application of sustainable forestry principles in their own backyards. Simultaneously, the Eastern Ontario Model Forest expects that its own contributions in these same flora will help further the application of sustainable forestry outside the Eastern Ontario Model Forest boundaries. Key words: Eastern Ontario Model Forest, community forestry, multi-stakeholder decision making
Développement de sapinières éclaircies exposées à une épidémie de tordeuse des bourgeons de l'épinette
Authors: Pothier David
Published: February 2014

In 1968, three intensities of low thinning were applied in 33-year-old balsam fir (Abies balsamea [L.] Mill.) stands of eastern Québec in order to remove 0, 20 and 30% of the total basal area. Sample plots were located in two distinct areas, one of which was annually sprayed with insecticides between 1978 and 1982 while the other was never protected against a spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana [Clem.]) outbreak that occurred between 1976 and 1983. A total of 32 0.04-ha sample plots were periodically measured between 1968 and 1994. Low thinnings mostly removed non merchantable trees (DBH < 9.1 cm) and left 5 000 to 7 000 trees/ha while stand density of control plots reached 10 000 stems/ha. From 1968 to 1976, net annual increment in merchantable volume was around 8 m3/ha but no differences were detected between thinning levels. During the period of severe defoliation caused by spruce budworm (1976-1985), net annual increment in merchantable volume of sample plots sprayed with insecticides decreased by 50% but get back to its initial level after 1985. Net annual increment of sample plots that were never protected against spruce budworm was strongly negative during the outbreak period until the extinction of all trees was completed. While thinning level only slightly affected merchantable yield of sample plots during the 26-year period, mean annual increment in DBH was inversely proportional to stand density. This advantage of thinned plots could have been greater if stand density had been reduced further at the beginning of the study. Indeed, the analysis of the evolution of stand density as a function of mean volume of trees shows that mortality rate of all sample plots was similar to that given by the self-thinning rule. This suggests that even trees of most heavily thinned plots suffered from strong intra-specific competition. Key words: balsam fir, low thinning, spruce budworm, growth and yield, diameter increment, self-thinning rule
Environmental release of transgenic trees in Canada — potential benefits and assessment of biosafety
Authors: Mullin T. J. , Bertrand S.
Published: February 2014

The release of new genetic materials into forest ecosystems, regardless of the method used to develop them, should be done in an environmentally responsible manner. Canada is participating with the OECD in efforts to harmonize regulatory control of products derived from biotechnology, including forest trees. Prepared under contract to the Canadian Forest Service, the purpose of this document is to facilitate a discussion within the forestry community, leading to improved direction of research and contributing to the harmonization of regulatory oversight of genetically engineered forest trees. While the focus of the paper is on transgenic trees, many of the issues raised are equally applicable to all novel products from tree breeding. Key words: biotechnology, environmental impact, genetic engineering, plants with novel traits, regulations, risk assessment, transgenic trees, tree breeding
Évolution de la régénération de peuplements résineux et mélangés au cours des 30 années après coupe à blanc mécanisée
Authors: Ruel Jean-Claude , Ouellet François , Plusquellec Roch , Ung Chhun-Huor
Published: February 2014

This paper presents results from a 30 year monitoring of 15 clearcut areas. Study areas were located before cutting in stands having an abundant advance regeneration. Four study areas were initially dominated by black spruce, four by balsam fir, three by jack pine and the last four comprised a mix of species. Stand inventories and regeneration surveys were conducted before harvesting. Harvesting was done in regular logging operations, without any special care to protect the advance growth. Regeneration surveys were taken again after harvesting, 5 years, 10 years, 20 years and 30 years after harvesting. Black spruce stands regenerated to black spruce dominated stands. Balsam fir, which was sometimes abundant in the advance regeneration, did not invade the stands and the abundance of hardwoods was temporary. In some cases a reduction in yield is to be expected. In balsam fir stands, harwoods were more aggressive. A reduction in softwood yield is predicted for three of the four cutovers. The presence of a tall regeneration seems to lead to higher yields in black spruce and balsam fir stands. The evolution of jack pine and mixed stands is quite variable. In some jack pine stands, hardwoods will constitute a significant component of the new stand. In some mixed stands, softwoods are not very abundant whereas in others they form an important part of the stand at 30 years. This study has shown an urgent need for a better understanding of stand dynamics in young stands. Such an understanding is necessary for an adequate forecast of the yield of second growth stands.
Evaluation of mancozeb and propiconazole to control Keithia leaf blight of container-grown western red cedar
Authors: Kope H. H. , Trotter D.
Published: February 2014

Two fungicides, propiconazole (Topas®) and mancozeb (Dithane®), were evaluated for their efficacy to control the foliar disease, Keithia leaf blight (Didymascella thujina) of western redcedar (Thuja plicata), in three container-seedling nurseries in British Columbia, in 1995. At each nursery, five fungicide and a control treatment were applied. Each treatment was applied to one-year-old container-grown seedlings at two nurseries, and to two-year-old container-grown seedlings at the third nursery. The fungicide propiconazole was applied at four rates (0.05, 0.075, 0.125 and 0.250 kg ai 1000L−1 ha−1) every four weeks, and mancozeb at one rate (2.06 kg ai 1000L−1 ha−1) every two weeks, and a water control applied every two weeks. Applications were made from July 10, 1995 until the end of November, 1995. Efficacy and phytotoxicity evaluation of the fungicides was done by subsampling 160 seedlings from each treatment at each nursery in early December, 1995. The results established that blight severity on the one-year-old seedlings was significantly less (p≤0.05) than the controls, for all four propiconazole treatments and the one mancozeb treatment. Blight severity on the two-year-old seedlings was significantly less (p≤0.05) than the controls, for the treatments with the two higher rates of propiconazole (0.125 and 0.250 kg ai 1000L−1 ha−1), as well as the one mancozeb treatment. In general, seedling growth of both the one- and two-year-old seedlings was no different than, nor better than, the control, suggesting that the fungicides were not phytotoxic. Both fungicides, propiconazole and mancozeb, are effective in controlling Keithia leaf blight, however, mancozeb must be applied every 10 to 14 days through the entire growing season (11 applications), whereas propiconazole requires fewer applications (6) through the growing season, for an equivalent efficacy. Key words: Didymascella thujina (Durand) Maire, Thuja plicata (Donn.), cedar leaf blight, nursery seedlings, reforestation
Integrated pest management in western Canadian boreal forests
Authors: Volney W. Jan A. , Mallett Kenneth I.
Published: February 2014

Insects and microorganisms perform a variety of functions in forest ecosystems. A minority of these organisms have been designated as pests. A fair understanding of the pests of mature boreal forests in west-central Canada has been developed. In many cases this has permitted the development of integrated pest management systems methodologies culminating, where appropriate, in the development of decision support systems. Research and development is currently underway to develop and improve such systems for managing pests of young stands. A general principle guiding the management of young stands suggests that emulating natural stand development will minimize losses due to pests. However, biological control techniques are being developed to enhance productivity where it is not feasible for management to emulate natural stand development. The philosophy employed in developing these methods is to rely on the conservation of the biota as they provide a reservoir from which to select organisms which may be useful in development of pest management procedures. Furthermore, the concern of the Canadian public regarding environmental degradation and the extremely low costs of successful biological control strategies, often involving emulating natural stand development to conserve beneficial organisms and obtain desirable stand densities and tree form, favour the development of these strategies to guarantee the sustainability of Canadian forests.
Moving toward consensus-based forest management: A comparison of industrial, co-managed, community and small private forests in Canada
Authors: Beckley Thomas M.
Published: February 2014

Research on forest management in North America has traditionally focussed on large, industrial forest tenures (involving both public and private land), or small, private woodlot management. Recent discussion and experiments in Canada involve new institutions for forest management. These alternative forest management systems — namely, co-managed forests and community forests — are compared to traditional forest management along several dimensions, including: locus of decision-making, nature of decision-making, scope of decision-making, tenure structure, scale, and knowledge base. There exists a gap between abstract discussions and practical applications of these models. Prospects for the continued development of these alternative management systems are evaluated. Key words: co-management, community forestry, decision making, forest tenure, forest management objectives
Economic performance of forest-reliant census subdivisions between 1981 and 1991
Authors: Williamson T. , Korber D. , Samson R.
Published: February 2014

This article assesses the economic performance of Canadian forest reliant census subdivisions (referred to as FRCs for the purposes of this paper) over the period 1981 to 1991. FRCs performed reasonably well over the 10 year period. The average annual rate of growth in base income was 1.7% per year. However, the performance of FRCs is quite varied. Growth of non-forest sectors was the major contributor to growth in FRCs indicating a general tendency for these CSDs to diversify and become less forest reliant over time. Generally, the FRCs that performed well over the period were the ones that initially had one or more of the following characteristics: larger FRCs, FRCs that were initially less forest reliant, FRCs with a higher paper and allied component in the forest sector and FRCs with lower initial wage rates. Key words: forest reliant communities, sustainability of communities, economic indicators, economic performance, economic development, economic base, rural policy
Economic importance of forestry-related sectors in the provincial and northwestern regional economy of Alberta
Authors: Alavalapati Janaki R. R. , Adamowicz Wiktor L.
Published: February 2014

This study examines the importance of forestry-related sectors relative to other resource sectors in the North West Region (NWR) of Alberta and the Alberta economy as a whole. A supply-side input-output analysis is conducted to achieve this task. The results indicate that the logging sector has the greatest potential among all resource sectors in generating output in Alberta for every additional unit of capital input. In the NWR, the pulp and paper sector is shown to be the key sector in generating output when compared to the other resource sectors. However, both logging and pulp and paper sectors are only next to the agricultural sector in generating employment for each unit of capital input. Results show that the energy sector has the least potential in generating output and employment both in the province and region.
Validation of ecoregion-based taper equations for white spruce in Alberta
Authors: Huang Shongming , Price Daryl , Morgan Dave , Titus Stephen
Published: February 2014

Ecoregion-based variable-exponent taper equations for white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) were validated on independent tree sectioning data sets. Criteria used for model validation were briefly reviewed, along with applicable interpretations. Examination of the validation plots and statistics indicated that the mean prediction biases were small and very close to zero (−0.0058 ≤ ē ≤ 0.0247; −0.03% ≤ ē% ≤ 0.20%), and the mean squared error of prediction was low. The agreement between observed and predicted values from the taper equations was strong and obvious, and was consistent across the size classes of the predicted values. Approximately 99% of the total variation in both the diameter inside bark predictions and volume predictions were explained by the application of the fitted taper equations. Key words: model validation, accuracy and precision, taper function, Picea glauca
If you build it, will they come? Survival skills for silvicultural studies
Authors: Powers Robert F.
Published: February 2014

Benefits of silvicultural research on permanent sites are undeniable. The trick is in creating sustainable studies. Many promising programs soon wither. Yet, a few endure. What are the keys to staying power? This paper introduces the problem, discusses three high-profile projects, and suggests ways of establishing field research studies that withstand the vagaries of politics and time. Key words: research programs, cooperation, long-term, networking, field studies
Montane Alternative Silvicultural Systems (MASS): Establishing and managing a multi-disciplinary, multi-partner research site
Authors: Beese W. J. , Arnott J. T.
Published: February 2014

The Montane Alternative Silvicultural Systems (MASS) study was established on Vancouver Island, B.C. to develop operationally feasible and ecologically sustainable silvicultural systems in old-growth forests. The project addresses regeneration, biodiversity and aesthetic concerns over clearcutting at high elevations. Over twenty integrated studies are examining the biological and economic consequences of shelterwood, small patch clearcut, dispersed green tree retention and clearcut alternatives. Planning and pre-harvest studies began two years before the 1993 harvesting. The Forest Engineering Research Institute of Canada (FERIC) documented the cost and feasibility of harvesting. Post-harvest studies have been underway for five years with funding by the Canada-B.C. Forest Resource Development Agreement (ERDA II), Forest Renewal BC (FRBC), Industry Canada and project cooperators. There are numerous challenges associated with establishing and managing a multi-disciplinary, long-term research site with multiple partners. This paper discusses the administrative aspects of integrated research based on our experience with the MASS project. Key words: research cooperative, silvicultural systems, old-growth forests
Regenerating eastern white pine: A cooperative research approach
Authors: Burgess D. , Wetzel S. , Pinto F.
Published: February 2014

A 27-ha field study was set up in 1994 within the Petawawa Research Forest near Chalk River, Ontario with input and support from local research scientists, forest managers and forest technicians. The study was designed to examine the effects of partial cutting, site preparation and underplanting in natural eastern white pine (Pinus strobus L.) stands. A complete randomized block experimental design was followed with four replicates. Three thinning (control, one-crown and two-crown spacing) and four site preparation (control, scarification, brush control using herbicide, and both scarification and brush control using herbicide) treatments were applied. Natural regeneration and planted seedling survival and growth, soil nutrient availability and other environmental factors are being monitored and recorded. Early results have contributed to the development of a new provincial silvicultural guide and a prototype expert decision support system for white pine management. Research activities are evaluated and coordinated with field practices each year through the development of formal collaborative agreements, meetings, joint workshops and field tours. On-site staff is helping to collect field data and provide fire protection. The site has served as a field demonstration area for people interested in white pine ecosystem management. The study is described within the FERN network of sites on the Internet. Key words: eastern white pine, Pinus strobus, natural regeneration, understory planting, multidisciplinary field research, forest research sites