bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanding socio-economic considerations in the management of New Brunswick's Crown land forests
Authors: Kennedy Michael I.L. , Beckley Thomas M , Lantz Van A
Published: February 2014

New Brunswick is in the midst of a forest policy debate regarding wood supply. This paper outlines the historical context, presents recent data and provides a detailed update on policy activities related to this debate. In 2004, the bi-partisan Legislative Select Committee on Wood Supply produced a report complete with recommendations for action. We report on the provincial government response to those recommendations, which has been to: broaden public input into forest management and planning; broaden the range of forest values considered in forest management/policy; and employ new tools, indicators and analysis to provide information to policy-makers. Key words: New Brunswick, wood supply, Crown land policy history, policy debate, socio-economic indicators, public participation in forest management
Beautiful Plantations: can intensive silviculture help Canada to fulfill ecological and timber production objectives?
Authors: Park Andrew , Wilson Edward R
Published: February 2014

There is growing international agreement that intensive silviculture will play a major role in meeting future demand for wood and wood fibre worldwide. In Canada, however, extensive forest management continues to be the dominant paradigm. Driven by low growth rates in primary forests and the consequent long rotations, current policies support only basic management, with little or no silvicultural intervention between stand initiation and final harvests. By contrast, native conifers and hybrid poplars (Populus spp.) grown in plantations have been shown to achieve increments of 6 to 29 m3 ha-1 yr-1 in Canada. In this paper, we argue that increased production, economic, and environmental benefits can be realized in Canada by intensifying silvicultural practices over designated parts of the landbase. Indeed, the shift to intensive management may be essential to sustain Canada’s competitiveness in the international forest products sector. In reviewing past work, we demonstrate that intensive silviculture may yield outputs that are competitive with many other regions, even those in the tropics. Achieving wide support for intensive silviculture will require integration of a broader range of silvicultural, environmental, and social objectives into management planning than has traditionally been the case. Such a broad-based strategy, especially where it has gained the support of communities, may be the most balanced and effective means of resolving many of the key forest management issues that face Canada in the 21st Century. Key words: conventional intensive silviculture, super-intensive silviculture, plantations, foreign competition, multiple-use forests, native conifers, roads, CO2 emissions, incentive
Yield prediction for mixed species stands in boreal Ontario
Authors: Penner Margaret
Published: February 2014

Wood supply of the major industrial species groups (spruce–pine–fir [Picea–Pinus–Abies spp.] and poplar [Populus spp.]) in the boreal forest of Ontario is forecast to fall below demand in the relatively near future. This has lead to more interest in the growth and yield of mixedwood forests. Mixedwood stands are defined for forest management planning as stands in which 26% to 75% of the canopy is softwood. With an average growth rate one-third higher than the average for all forest types combined, mixed species stands have potential to mitigate some of the shortfalls. This paper reviews the history of yield curve development in Ontario and some of the current initiatives in mixedwood modeling. The Forestry Research Partnership, a partnership between Tembec, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, the Canadian Forest Service, and the Canadian Ecology Centre, was formed in 1999. One of the first projects of the Partnership was to update the provincial yield curves. These updated curves provide good estimates of yield for mixedwoods on upland, drier sites but mixedwoods on moister sites need to be further stratified by leading species. Mid-rotation activities such as density regulation and partial harvesting in the selection or shelterwood silvicultural systems are generally tree-level activities. These are more compatible with tree-level models. Ontario is calibrating the Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) for use in Ontario and this shows particular promise in mixedwood modeling. Key words: mixedwood growth, yield tables, FVS
Outdoor recreation participation in BC forest-dependent communities
Authors: Harshaw H W
Published: February 2014

Understanding recreation behaviour can help forest managers identify public uses of forests and gauge the extent of recreation use. This paper documents recreation behaviour in nine forest-dependent communities in British Columbia and examines three questions: (1) is outdoor recreation relevant to local residents?; (2) what are the characteristics of outdoor recreation participation?; and (3) are local residents satisfied with outdoor recreation forest management outcomes and land-use planning processes? Involvement in recreation activities was varied and longstanding. Non-motorized and motorized recreation played important roles as people’s main connection to forests. Knowing about recreationists’ satisfaction with land-use planning outcomes can help forest managers assess their success in meeting land-use objectives, and may help alleviate uncertainties in forest planning and management by reducing conflict, improving quality-of-life, and contributing to the social license of forestry activities. Key words: forest recreation; sustainable forest management; recreation participation
Towards automated segmentation of forest inventory polygons on high spatial resolution satellite imagery
Authors: Wulder Michael A , White Joanne C , Hay Geoffrey J , Castilla Guillermo
Published: February 2014

High spatial resolution satellite imagery, with pixel sizes of one metre or less, are increasingly available. These data provide an accessible and flexible source of information for forest inventory purposes. In addition, the digital nature of these data provides an opportunity for automated and computer-assisted approaches for forest stand delineation to be considered. Specifically, automation has the potential to realize cost savings by minimizing the time required for manual delineation of forest stands; however, inappropriate automation could result in increased costs due to time-consuming revisions of automated delineations. The aim of this research is to present, through example, investigations of an automated segmentation approach for delineating homogeneous forest stands on high spatial resolution satellite imagery. An evaluation of the suitability of IKONOS 1-m panchromatic data for this application is also presented, along with several key issues that must be considered regarding automated segmentation approaches. Key words: forest inventory, segmentation, automation, IKONOS, high spatial resolution satellite, photo interpretation, stand delineation, object
The use of the natural range of variability for identifying biodiversity values at risk when implementing a forest management strategy
Authors: Doyon Frédérik , Yamasaki Stephen , Duchesneau Robin
Published: February 2014

The Natural Range of Variability is a concept used under the ecosystem management paradigm that means understanding the disturbance-driven spatial and temporal variability of the ecological systems and mimicking them in management strategies. With this project, we developed a framework that permitted addressing biodiversity issues under the lens of the Natural Range of Variability (NRV) for a managed public forest in central-west Alberta. To do so, we brought together a spatial harvest scheduler, a fire and succession landscape simulator, and a toolbox of biodiversity indicator models. Indicator models, that encompass landscape configuration, ecosystem diversity, stand internal habitat features and speciesspecific habitat supply models, were applied on the outputs of the landscape dynamics simulator to define the NRV. The risk of losing biodiversity values in applying the forest management strategy was addressed by comparing indicators outputs over the simulation horizon with their respective NRV. Results demonstrate that no forest-age-related indicator evaluated on the harvest scheduler output shows an important deviation from the NRV. However, in regards to forest cover types there is obviously a loss in ecosystem diversity, as a direct effect of the stand composition control of the silvicultural strategies. We found that patch size distribution is generally compliant with the NRV, although we observed more large patches and better connectivity for old growth patches under fire-driven landscapes. We also found that downed woody debris volume and many understory vegetation (ground lichen, herb and shrub) covers were at risk. Over the seventeen wildlife species, we detected nine species that could be jeopardized by important loss of habitats. Back-tracking bottleneck forest conditions that put these biodiversity values at risk has allowed development of recommendations with regards to landscape design and adapted practices. Key words: BAP toolbox, fire-driven landscape, natural disturbance regime, ecosystem diversity, landscape configuration, wildlife habitat models, risk analysis
Stating the case for including Integrated Land Management within forest management plans: An opinion
Authors: Russell Jonathan S
Published: February 2014

An increasing human population is exerting greater demands upon the earth for resource production and living space. Despite its large landmass, Canada is not immune to this pressure. On industrial forested lands, one response has been integrated resource management, whereby the forest supports multiple uses within the same space and time. Under the strain of increasing pressures, coupled with a concern for the maintenance of natural systems and processes, it has become evident that the current planning processes need to evolve to incorporate a new land management paradigm. This paper outlines the issues and presents for discussion a potential management paradigm based not only on the limited scope of industrial forested lands but on the broader expanse of land management in general. Supporting the proposed Integrated Land Management (ILM) approach, Millar Western Forest Products Ltd., an Alberta-based forest products company, developed a cumulative effects assessment to complement its forest management plan. This assessment demonstrates that as a proof of concept, ILM is technically achievable and can be scientifically based. Further, integration of diverse concepts and disciplines can be organized to produce functional plans. Key words: Integrated Land Management, Integrated Resource Management, forest management, cumulative effects assessment
Minimum requirements for wildfire investigations
Authors: Woodard Paul M.
Published: February 2014

Provincial forest management agencies across Canada are attempting to recover suppression costs plus losses to real property due to human-caused fires when negligence is involved. These agencies are responsible for investigating these fires, and they commonly restrict all access to the fire origin area. These agencies commonly employ well trained fire investigators, who are well aware of standards for documenting wildland fires. However, in many cases, the quality of the investigations is poor, and the cost of finding this additional information is great. In this paper, I identify the minimum information required before an investigation file should be considered complete and charges can be laid. Key words: wildland fire, investigation, reports, litigation, standards
Learning from the past – the origin of wood
Authors: Savidge Rodney Arthur
Published: February 2014

Trees were on Earth 394 million years ago (394 Ma) as spore-producing Archaeopteris progymnosperms having largediameter trunks of secondary xylem (morphotype Callixyon) produced by vascular cambium. Plants of smaller stature with primary xylem cores were present in Late Silurian (416 Ma), but they lacked cambium and it remains unclear how and when the first trees evolved. Progymnosperms faded and gymnosperms arose during Middle Carboniferous, and conifers, ginkgos, cycads, tree ferns and cordaites were well established by the Carboniferous–Permian transition (299 Ma). Woods of the earliest conifers were different from those of today, and not until Late Triassic (220 Ma) did any begin producing secondary xylem similar to modern woods, the xylem phenotypes of Cupressaceae and Araucariaceae emerging much earlier than those of Pinaceae and flowering plants. Conifers have persisted and done relatively well despite major extinction events, severe climate change, insectivory, herbivory and microbial activity, all of which were in effect before as well as during the appearance of trees on Earth. Approximately 600 conifer species continue to exist, and the survivors presumably possess the physiological fitness needed to adapt to an ever-changing biosphere. However, this is speculative because their physiology remains less than well understood. Forestry interventions such as planting one species to the exclusion of others have the potential to exacerbate as well as sustain the ongoing existence of our remaining conifers. Key words: bordered pit, cambium, cell biology, cellulose, evolution, lignin, paleobotany, protoplasmic autolysis, secondary growth, wood formation, xylogenesis
Projected impacts of climate change on species distribution in the Acadian Forest region of eastern Nova Scotia
Authors: Bourque Charles P.-A. , Hassan Quazi K
Published: February 2014

A modelling framework is presented for the calculation of potential species habitat based on species vital attributes and spatial calculations of growing season averages of growing degree day accumulation, incident solar radiation, and soil moisture. Soil moisture and incident solar radiation are calculated from first principles; i.e., hydrological cycle and earth-sun geometry. Growing degree days and mean air temperature are based on processing remote sensing data, mean air temperatures serves as one of several inputs to model calculation of soil moisture. Both the growing degree days and soil moisture are modified to account for anticipated climate change in 2040. Potential species habitat distributions are presented for current and future (2040) climate for a portion of the Acadian Forest of eastern Nova Scotia. Key words: biophysical attributes, climate influences, digital elevation model, landscape ecology, process models, remote sensing data
Technical considerations in the design of core habitat patches in forest management: A case study using the Patchworks spatial model
Authors: Moore Tom , Tink Greg
Published: February 2014

Incorporation of core area requirements into forest management plans is a requirement in many provinces and for many forest certification systems. The purpose of this paper is to consider how core requirements might be addressed using spatial models and mapping tools, and to assess how well these tools work in practice. To meet these objectives, we applied the spatial model Patchworks to real data representing a portion of a very large forest management unit in northern Ontario, the Gordon Cosens Forest. Three different sets of simulations were conducted to explore the ability of the spatial model to identify core areas, to identify technical challenges, and the means to resolve them. Key words: core area, forest management planning, Patchworks, spatial modelling
Effects of post-harvest silviculture on use of boreal forest stands by amphibians and marten in Ontario
Authors: Thompson Ian D , Baker James A , Jastrebski Christopher , Dacosta Jennifer , Fryxell John , Corbett Daniel
Published: February 2014

Much of the southern boreal forest is composed of second-growth stands that have been subjected to a variety of silvicultural treatments ranging from cut and leave to scarification, planting, and tending with herbicides. We have limited understanding of the effects that these treatments may have on wildlife species, as a result of changes to forest structures and species composition. Forest amphibians, generally, and the American marten (Martes americana) are species for which there has been long-standing concern about the effects of forest management. We examined the long-term effects at stand and landscape scales of a range of silviculture intensities on these species by comparing the relative abundances of some amphibians and habitat use by marten in forests that were about 32 to 50 years old. American toads (Bufo americanus) appeared to be unaffected by long-term changes in habitat structure and composition owing to silvicultural techniques. We observed lower relative abundance of wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) in treated stands 20 to 30 years old than in all other stands including uncut old forests. However, abundance in treated stands more than 32 years old did not differ from untreated or uncut stands. This effect may have resulted from lower moisture levels in treated young stands. Marten seemed to positively respond to post-harvest planting and tending treatments, suggesting that basic silviculture provided habitat attributes, notably a higher conifer content, which was favourable to marten. Key words: post-harvest silviculture, marten, wood frog, American toad, herbicide, boreal, woody debris, Ontario
Ontario's Forestry Research Partnership: Progress and next steps
Authors: Baker James A , Bell F. Wayne , Stinson Al
Published: February 2014

This paper provides a synthesis of a 2-phase approach used by the Canadian Ecology Centre – Forestry Research Partnership (CEC-FRP) to implement adaptive management on 6 forest management units in northeastern Ontario. It also provides a summary of a self evaluation of the partnership using a set of attributes deemed necessary to successfully implement adaptive management (i.e., leadership; alignment with organizational goals; commitment, will, and capacity to act; and formal and explicit documentation). We conclude that the adoption of the 2-phase approach, rather than direct implementation of adaptive management, provided the partners with the means to identify and address critical uncertainties related to intensifying forest management on Crown lands in Ontario, focus research and transfer activities, develop and test new landscape- and stand-level models, and adjust forest management policies and practices. Key words: adaptive management, intensive forest management, knowledge transfer
The role of LiDAR in sustainable forest management
Authors: Wulder Michael A , Bater Christopher W , Coops Nicholas C , Hilker Thomas , White Joanne C
Published: February 2014

Forest characterization with light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data has recently garnered much scientific and operational attention. The number of forest inventory attributes that may be directly measured with LiDAR is limited; however, when considered within the context of all the measured and derived attributes required to complete a forest inventory, LiDAR can be a valuable tool in the inventory process. In this paper, we present the status of LiDAR remote sensing of forests, including issues related to instrumentation, data collection, data processing, costs, and attribute estimation. The information needs of sustainable forest management provide the context within which we consider future opportunities for LiDAR and automated data processing. Key words: LiDAR, airborne laser altimetry, forest inventory, height, volume, biomass, update, remote sensing
Predicting forest stand variables from LiDAR data in the Great Lakes  St. Lawrence forest of Ontario
Authors: Woods M. , Lim K. , Treitz P.
Published: February 2014

Models were developed to predict forest stand variables for common species of the Great Lakes – St. Lawrence forest of central Ontario, Canada from light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data. Stands that had undergone various ranges of partial harvesting or initial spacing treatments from multiple geographic sites were considered. A broad forest stratification was adopted and consisted of: (i) natural hardwoods; (ii) natural conifers; and (iii) plantation conifers. Stand top height (R2 = 0.96, 0.98, and 0.98); average height (R2 = 0.86, 0.76, and 0.98); basal area (R2 = 0.80, 0.80, and 0.85); volume (R2 = 0.89, 0.81, and 0.91); quadratic mean diameter (R2 = 0.80, 0.68, and 0.83); and density (R2 = 0.74, 0.71, and 0.73) were predicted from low density (i.e., 0.5 point m-2) LiDAR data for these 3 strata, respectively. Key words: light detection and ranging, LiDAR, airborne laser scanning, forest modelling, remote sensing, forest stand variables, Great Lakes – St. Lawrence forest
Evaluation of a tree classification system in relation to mortality risk in Québec northern hardwoods
Authors: Guillemette François , Bédard Steve , Fortin Mathieu
Published: February 2014

A tree classification system was developed in the 1980s as part of a guide for tree-marking in the rehabilitation of unevenaged northern hardwood stands in Québec. It differentiates trees that are at high and low risk of mortality, trees with sawlog potential and cull trees. The risk class was assessed based on the presence of major crown and bole defects. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate this system with respect to its capacity to predict the probability of tree mortality. The variables used to classify the trees were observed in 88 experimental plots (0.5 ha) established between 1983 and 1999. Tree-level mortality probabilities were modelled for sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.), American beech (Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.) and yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis Britt.) to test the significance of the classification variables. The presence of decay, fungus or canker, wounds, uprooting, the death of at least 30% of the crown or of the roots, and the product class had significant (p < 0.05) effects on mortality probabilities for at least one of the 3 species studied. In the main, the results supported the tree classification system. However, this system could be modified to differentiate not only trees with a high or low mortality risk, but also to identify some very high-risk trees. Key words: northern hardwood, mortality, defect, quality, classification, selection cutting, partial cut, sugar maple, American beech, yellow birch, uneven-aged, tree-marking
Forestry and landslides: What's acceptable in BC?
Authors: Guthrie R H
Published: February 2014

Landslides are unavoidably linked to forestry operations in coastal BC. A neglected component of landslide risk assessment is the degree to which impacts from landslides may be acceptable. One hundred and thirteen professionals in the BC forest industry, including foresters, biologists, geoscientists and engineers, examined landslide tolerability criteria. Despite differences by sector, there was general agreement that landslides resultant of ignoring expert advice or where an expert was clearly at fault were unacceptable, and penalties were high. In more ambiguous cases, increased consequences resulted in increased scrutiny and it was clear that experts should expect to be held responsible for their decisions by government officiators and the public. Key words: landslide, risk, risk perception, acceptable risk, landslides and forestry
Individual height–diameter models for young black spruce (Picea mariana) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana) plantations in New Brunswick, Canada
Authors: Lei Xiangdong , Peng Changhui , Wang Haiyan , Zhou Xiaolu
Published: February 2014

Historically, height–diameter models have mainly been developed for mature trees; consequently, few height–diameter models have been calibrated for young forest stands. In order to develop equations predicting the height of trees with small diameters, 46 individual height–diameter models were fitted and tested in young black spruce (Picea mariana) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana) plantations between the ages of 4 to 8 years, measured from 182 plots in New Brunswick, Canada. The models were divided into 2 groups: a diameter group and a second group applying both diameter and additional stand- or tree-level variables (composite models). There was little difference in predicting tree height among the former models (Group I) while the latter models (Group II) generally provided better prediction. Based on goodness of fit (R2and MSE), prediction ability (the bias and its associated prediction and tolerance intervals in absolute and relative terms), and ease of application, 2 Group II models were recommended for predicting individual tree heights within young black spruce and jack pine forest stands. Mean stand height was required for application of these models. The resultant tolerance intervals indicated that most errors (95%) associated with height predictions would be within the following limits (a 95% confidence level): [-0.54 m, 0.54 m] or [-14.7%, 15.9%] for black spruce and [-0.77 m, 0.77 m] or [-17.1%, 18.6%] for jack pine. The recommended models are statistically reliable for growth and yield applications, regeneration assessment and management planning. Key words: composite model, linear model, model calibration, model validation, prediction interval, tolerance interval
Standing deadwood for keystone bird species in the eastern boreal forest: Managing for snag dynamics
Authors: Drapeau Pierre , Nappi Antoine , Imbeau Louis , Saint-Germain Michel
Published: February 2014

Extensive even-aged management of the boreal forest and its consequences on the loss of late-seral stages (>100 years) is raising concerns about the future of organisms associated with standing deadwood. The considerable reduction of deadwood not only at the stand but at the landscape level is considered to be one of the principal causes of biodiversity loss in managed forest ecosystems worldwide. Ecosystem-oriented management approaches propose a fundamental change in forestry practices whereby live and dead tree retention becomes an important consideration in forest harvesting. We use woodpecker assemblages and their association with standing deadwood for both nesting and foraging to emphasize the importance of the entire range of snag degradation stages for maintenance of key ecological processes in habitat remnants of managed landscapes. We argue that bridging foraging and nesting knowledge of woodpecker’s snag requirements can refine conservation objectives for deadwood retention in the boreal forest. Key words: deadwood, woodpeckers, hole-nesting community, late-seral forests, keystone species, foraging and nesting tree requirements, food webs, nest webs, snag management
Changing our mental model from growing volume to producing value: The case of uneven-aged hardwood management
Authors: Lussier Jean-Martin
Published: February 2014

The selection system is a common management system in uneven-aged tolerant hardwoods stands in Crown forests of eastern Canada. This silvicultural system aims to produce a sustained yield of products and services at the stand level, using frequent partial cuttings that harvest the mature and valuable portion of the forest, while tending the rest of the stand to increase its productivity and value for future cuttings. Current practices involve the use of empirical partial cutting guides to decide the number of trees to both harvest and maintain at each cutting cycle, typically to maximize longterm sawlog and veneer production. This paper demonstrates that by replacing this objective function with the maximization of the net value of the harvest for the whole value chain by using a simple mathematical optimization model, forest management can be greatly improved in terms of profitability. Nevertheless, further developments are needed for improving forest management optimization models in order to better balance short-term profitability and long-term ecological, economic and societal objectives. Key words: Selection system, hardwoods, uneven-aged silviculture, optimization, economic, value chain, profitability, steering treatment
Broadleaves in the Interior of British Columbia: Their extent, use, management and prospects for investment in genetic conservation and improvement
Authors: Vyse Alan , Simard Suzanne W
Published: February 2014

The principal broadleaves in Interior British Columbia (trembling aspen, paper birch, balsam poplar and black cottonwood) are well distributed across all of the major Interior ecological zones but their occurrence is greatest in the northern areas. Their utilization has gradually increased over the last 20 years, especially in the north. Economic values are low compared to conifer species but shortage of conifer timber as a result of the mountain pine beetle epidemic could drive demand for broadleaves higher. The ecological and non-timber values of broadleaves are very high; however, management practices still favour conifer species. Retention of broadleaves in harvesting and reforestation programs is widely implemented, but at a very low intensity and with little attention to broadleaf silvics. Future management of broadleaves is likely to be based largely on natural regeneration of broadleaves and not nursery production. Investments in genetic research should focus on genecology and gene conservation, as well as facilitated migration studies and investigation of pest resistance. Key words: broadleaves, trembling aspen, paper birch, black cottonwood, balsam poplar, management, genetic conservation, genetic improvement
Spatial and temporal patterns of Populus tremuloides regeneration in small forest openings in northern Ontario
Authors: Groot Arthur , Man Rongzhou , Wood Jim
Published: February 2014

The density, height and diameter of trembling aspen sucker regeneration was assessed over a 10-year period in openings created by harvesting in a 40-year-old, 19-m-tall aspen stand in northeastern Ontario. The 5 types of opening comprised: circular openings of 9-m- and 18-m-diameter, 150-m-long eastwest strips of 9-m and 18-m width, and a 1.5 ha (100 m × 150 m) clearcut. Density of aspen regeneration was significantly affected by opening type, location relative to the opening, time since harvest, and by all interactions of these factors. Aspen densities within the circular openings declined to low levels by year 10, despite considerable initial recruitment. Trembling aspen height and diameter were significantly influenced by opening type, location relative to the opening, time since harvest, and by opening × time and location × time interactions. Trembling aspen heights in the circular openings were substantially less than in the clearcut and strip openings by year 10. The results support the traditional view that aspen is best managed under the clearcut silvicultural system, and that trembling aspen regeneration following forest harvesting can be reduced by controlling the extent or intensity of overstory removal. Finally, the results suggest that disturbances that create gaps greater than 1 tree height in width in aspen or mixedwood forests may allow gap dynamics to function. Key words: trembling aspen, silviculture, boreal mixedwoods, regeneration, forest openings
Benefits of using genetically improved white spruce in Quebec: The forest landowner’s viewpoint
Authors: Petrinovic Juan Fernando , Gélinas Nancy , Beaulieu Jean
Published: February 2014

One of the main issues facing the forest sector at present relates to striking a balance between the increasing demand for wood fibre and the need to maintain the sustainability of forest ecosystems. New approaches are needed to ensure more effective management of ecosystems and to implement intensive silviculture where possible to increase timber yields. To achieve this shift, we need to determine the economic potential of the various options available, including the use of biotechnology. This study was undertaken to estimate the benefits produced by genetically improved white spruce plantations, to determine the optimal economic rotation age for such plantations, and to evaluate the effect of certain factors such as the quality of reforestation sites, potential genetic gains from the use of biotechnology, and silvicultural regimes. Genetic gains are estimated in relation to 3 production approaches: 1) planting of seedlings obtained from seed orchards (10% height gain), 2) planting of multifamily varieties using cuttings from superior families obtained from controlled crosses (15% height gain) and 3) planting of multiclonal varieties produced through somatic embryogenesis and selected from seed orchards using genetic markers (20% height gain). The latter approach is still under development but is considered realistic. The present value of benefits (PVB) and the equivalent annual cash flow (EACF) criteria were used to estimate the benefits resulting from these genetically improved plantations and to determine the optimal economic rotation age. The analyses showed that the forest site quality has the greatest influence, followed by the factors representing productivity gains associated with genetic gain, and the silvicultural regime. Genetically improved stock can generate increases in PVB of up to 73% depending on the approach used to exploit the potential genetic gains. The results suggest that, to maximize profitability, improved stock should be used on the most productive sites and the plantations should be intensively managed. Key words: economic benefits, white spruce, genetic improvement, intensive silviculture, multiclonal varieties, optimal economic rotation age
Effects of vegetation control treatments for release of Engelmann spruce from a mixed-shrub community in southern British Columbia  Year 15 results
Authors: Comeau Philip G. , Harper George J.
Published: February 2014

Fifteen-year results from a study initiated in 1992 to compare the effectiveness of repeated cutting treatments with treatments involving single cutting or a single application of glyphosate herbicide are presented. While treatments resulted in significant improvements in diameter and height of planted spruce at ages 3 to 7, these differences were no longer significant in year 15. All vegetation control treatments significantly increased survival in year 15 but did not significantly affect average spruce size. Despite apparent initial treatment effects on vegetation cover, the treatments applied in this study have had little lasting effect on non-crop vegetation. Key words: vegetation management, herbicides, glyphosate, manual, interior spruce, mixed shrub complex, Interior Cedar Hemlock Zone.
Forest disease records on eastern white pine in Atlantic Canada: 1950 to 1996
Authors: Harrison K. J.
Published: February 2014

Between 1936 and 1996, the Forest Insect and Disease Survey (FIDS) of the Canadian Forest Service of Natural Resources Canada surveyed eastern white pine (Pinus strobus L.) throughout Atlantic Canada. During those years, FIDS reported its insect and disease findings in a wide variety of regional and national reports and in the scientific literature. The National Forest Health Database contains these electronic records and indicates the distribution and relative importance of forest diseases and fungi for many tree species in Atlantic Canada. This paper is a frequency analysis of the fungal diseases recorded from the Atlantic provinces in the National Forest Health Database and reported in the various Maritime, Newfoundland and national FIDS reports. The significant eastern white pine diseases (e.g., white pine blister rust  Cronartium ribicola J.C. Fisch.) that are established in Atlantic Canada as well as other diseases that are found elsewhere in Canada, but not yet in the Atlantic provinces are discussed. Occurrence data for 40 of the less frequently collected fungal species are presented in a summary table. Key words: white pine blister rust, Cronartium ribicola, eastern white pine, Pinus strobus, Scleroderris canker, Gremmeniella abietina, Annosus root rot, Heterobasidion annosum, white pine root decline, Leptographium procerum, needle cast, Lophodermium pinastri, brown felt fungus, Septobasidium pinicola, Atlantic Canada, forest disease
External knot size and frequency in black spruce trees from an initial spacing trial in Thunder Bay, Ontario
Authors: Benjamin Jeffrey G , Kershaw, Jr. John A , Weiskittel Aaron R , Chui Ying Hei , Zhang S Y
Published: February 2014

As growing space available for a given tree increases, crown size increases and branch size (and thus knot size) is generally greater. Increased tree spacing may also result in a higher knot frequency. Using a combination of nonlinear, multilevel mixed effects and generalized nonlinear modeling techniques, a series of equations were developed to predict size and number of knots with respect to vertical location in black spruce (Picea mariana [Mill.] BSP) trees from one of the oldest initial spacing trial in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The models developed in this paper focus only on live whorls and are intended to be linked with a growth and yield model. The maximum knot size model accounted for 74% of the total variation and had a root MSE of 2.03. Random effects terms accounted for an additional 3% of the total variation. The relative knot size model accounted for 32% of the total variation and no significant random effects were found. The knot frequency model accounted for 45% of the total variation and the root MSE was 2.11 and no significant autocorrelation or random effects were observed. The results of this study indicated that black spruce knot properties were relatively insensitive to tree spacing given that they were largely accounted for by bole and crown size covariates. Key words: maximum knot size, relative knot size, number of knots per whorl, plantation black spruce, nonlinear regression, nonlinear mixed effects
Regeneration of aspen following partial and strip understory protection harvest in boreal mixedwood forests
Authors: Lennie Alison D , Landhäusser Simon M , Lieffers Victor J , Sidders Derek
Published: February 2014

Trembling aspen regeneration was studied in 2 types of partial harvest systems designed to harvest mature aspen but protect immature spruce and encourage natural aspen regeneration. Two partial harvest systems, where the residual aspen was either left in strips or was dispersed uniformly, were compared to traditional clearcuts. After the first and second year since harvest, aspen sucker density and growth was similar between the 2 partial harvests, but was much lower than in the clearcuts. However, in the partial cuts the regeneration density was very much dependent on the location relative to residual trees. The density of regeneration was inversely related to the basal area of residual aspen; however, sucker height was inversely related to the basal area of the residual spruce. Although there were adequate numbers of suckers after partial harvest, their viability and contribution to the long-term productivity of these mixedwood stands is not clear. Key words: silvicultural systems, forest management, residual canopy, white spruce, Populus tremuloides, Picea glauca, traffic
Opportunities, challenges and markets for forest carbon offset projects
Authors: Ristea Catalin , Maness Thomas C
Published: February 2014

Forest-based activities can mitigate climate change by reducing carbon sources and enhancing carbon sinks. Under various emissions-reductions programs, credits (called carbon offsets) can be issued to forestry projects that can credibly demonstrate additional and lasting reductions in CO2 emissions. The greatest potential for forest carbon offset projects currently exists in voluntary emissions reduction programs and markets, which, however, have a negligible value in the global carbon market. Unless their relevance can be proven, forestry-based carbon offset projects will play a minor role in compliance markets. This is mainly due to concerns about the additionality, permanence, and leakage of carbon offsets generated by forestry projects. Key words: forest carbon offset project, emissions trading program, cap and trade, carbon market
Physiologically derived predictions of Douglas-fir site index in British Columbia
Authors: Coops Nicholas C , Hember Robbie A
Published: February 2014

Both the coastal and interior varieties of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii (Mirb.) Franco; Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca) are found throughout a wide range of environmental conditions across British Columbia. The species is long-lived and can grow rapidly to standing volumes that approach the highest recorded among temperate conifers. Understanding the growth of the species across British Columbia, and its site index (defined as individual tree height at 50 m) is important for forest managers for both production and conservation objectives. To date, predictions of site index have traditionally been derived from forest inventory using estimates of species, height and age combined with the appropriate height–age model. More recently, process-based modelling has offered a viable alternative approach due to increased computing power, model simplifications and availability of input data. In this paper we applied a physiological forest growth model, 3-PG (Physiological Principles Predicting Growth) to predict and map site index of Douglas-fir across British Columbia at 1-km cell resolution. Our model predictions were scaled-up and compared to independent estimates of average site index for subzones from the British Columbia Biogeoclimatic Ecosystem Classification (BEC) system. Results indicated the 3-PG predictions closely matched those summarized by the BEC sub-zones (r = 0.86, p<0.001, SE = 3.0m). Predicted environmental limitations of growth suggest that the coastal variety of the species is most severely affected by temperature and frost constraints, and in some locations, soil water stress, whereas the interior variety is principally restricted by soil water availability. The proposed modelling approach complements ecological classifications and offers the potential to identify the most favourable sites for management of other native tree species under current and projected climates. Key words: Douglas-fir, site index, physiological modelling, 3-PG model, forest productivity, British Columbia, Canada
Ratio estimation to improve estimates of top height from suboptimal samples in forest inventory plots in Québec
Authors: Mailly Daniel , Gaudreault Mélanie , Blais Louis
Published: February 2014

Top height is one of the most useful variables provided by sample plot measurements conducted during forest inventory programs. Combined with tree age, it allows the determination of site index, a common measure of forest site productivity. Unfortunately, there are cases where the number of site trees is suboptimal; this potential problem can lead to imprecise estimates of top height and site index. We approached this problem using ratio estimation techniques and incomplete data sets from forest inventory plots in Québec. We tested different combinations of suboptimal sampling of site trees to estimate top height based on their diameters, using only 2 or 3 site trees per 0.04-ha plot, instead of 4. The results show that suboptimal sampling of site trees should not be conducted randomly, and that some combinations consistently performed better than others. Also, some combinations never outperformed others and should be avoided when estimating top height of some important tree species in Québec using suboptimal sampling of site trees. Finally, for the best combinations, we concluded that the ratio estimation technique generally provided precise and unbiased estimates of top height. Key words: top height, site index, site trees, ratio estimation, forest inventory
Aboriginal forestry entrepreneurship: A case study in Mashteuiatsh Ilnu Nation
Authors: Beaudoin Jean-Michel , LeBel Luc , Bouthillier Luc
Published: February 2014

The participation of the First Nations in Canadian forestry is a growing and irreversible phenomenon. There is a lack of information on forestry initiatives in Aboriginal communities, particularly regarding factors contributing to entrepreneurial development within Aboriginal communities. It is in this context that we present a case study that allowed us to draw a portrait of forestry entrepreneurs within the Ilnu community of Mashteuiatsh. Our results reveal the determinant but delicate role played by the band council in developing forestry entrepreneurship in the community. Our research also indicates that it is essential to define the roles of various economic and political stakeholders in order to promote private forestry initiatives. Key words: Aboriginal people, forestry, economic development, entrepreneurship
Views of Aboriginal People in Northern Ontario on Ontario’s approach to Aboriginal values in forest management planning
Authors: Sapic Tomislav , Runesson Ulf , Smith M.A. (Peggy)
Published: February 2014

Qualitative research through focus groups and semi-structured interviews was conducted with members of 6 northern Ontario Aboriginal communities to obtain their views on how to define and protect Aboriginal values during forest management. Landscape visualization models were used for forest management scenario illustrations. Research results show that: (1) Aboriginal people take an all-encompassing view when discussing Aboriginal values; (2) some of the terminology used in forest management planning regarding Aboriginal values can be confusing to Aboriginal people; and (3) individual Aboriginal values are sometimes spatially defined as more than the physical objects that represent them. One of the conclusions of the research is that Ontario forest management planning needs a separate guide on defining and protecting Aboriginal values. Key words: Aboriginal values, forest management planning, land use, trappers’ cabin, spiritual site, burial site, landscape visualization
Assessing forest biomass for bioenergy: Operational challenges and cost considerations
Authors: Ralevic P , Ryans M , Cormier D
Published: February 2014

Sustainability assessments and biomass inventories often neglect the operational challenges involved in the harvesting of forest biomass for bioenergy. Thus, concerns that increasing demands for biomass will lead to greater environmental impacts, particularly on soil productivity, need to be considered from an operations perspective that takes into consideration the technical and cost limitations to biomass recovery. We examine operational forest biomass recovery potential of harvest residue (slash) for three sites located north of Kapuskasing, Ontario. The sites are in the Northern Claybelt, which is in the boreal forest and is comprised primarily of lowland black spruce and upland mixedwoods. Supply flows of harvest residues estimated using the Biomass Opportunity Supply Model (BiOS), developed by FPInnovations – Feric Division are compared to validation data collected from the sites. Costs for the supply flows were also estimated using BiOS. After harvesting limitations and planned retentions (such as wildlife trees) were taken into consideration, 41% (41.2 ovendry tonnes/ha) and 59% (99.1 odt/ha) of total above-ground biomass were estimated to remain on site in two mixedwood blocks, and 25% (25.3 odt/ha) in a black spruce block. Thus, considerable biomass was left on the forest floor, contrary to popular perceptions that bioenergy harvesting will result in a “clearing” or potential “vacuuming” of the forest floor. The delivered cost was $53/odt ($2.86/GJ energy equivalent) and $58/odt ($3.14/GJ) for the two upland sites and $59/odt ($3.19/GJ) for the lowland black spruce site. This is higher than conventional hog fuel costs. Although operational and cost considerations thus limit harvest residue recovery, and although there are a number of operational factors that can minimize environmental impacts on soils and biodiversity, sustainable biomass removal guidelines still need to be implemented on sites sensitive to soil damage and nutrient removal.

Key words: biomass, bioenergy, harvest, operations, cost, supply chain, sustainable management, soil nutrients, forest residues, BiOS model, Ontario