bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fact and fantasy about forest carbon
Authors: Ter-Mikaelian Michael T , Colombo Stephen J. , Chen Jiaxin
Published: February 2014

The Boreal Campaign initiated by environmental non-governmental organizations has resulted in a number of public statements about detrimental effects of harvesting on boreal forest carbon stocks. These statements are examined in the context of Ontario’s boreal forest. A review of scientific literature and the results of the authors’ original work on forest carbon demonstrate that these statements are based on either incomplete or inaccurate use of published scientific information. We conclude that forest management in Ontario, as governed by the Crown Forest Sustainability Act, increases total boreal forest carbon stock over the long term and that these conclusions are likely applicable to other jurisdictions where boreal forests are managed sustainably. Key words: boreal forest, carbon stocks, wood products, forest harvest
A method for estimating the economic contribution of resource-based tourism
Authors: Hunt Len M , Haider Wolfgang , Boxall Peter C , Englin Jeff
Published: February 2014

Resource-based tourism is an important economic activity occurring on publicly owned forested lands in northern Canada. However, little is known about the economic contribution of this sector to the regions where it is located. This paper describes a method to estimate revenues generated by tourist operators from data sources that are primarily in the public domain. The method is illustrated with an examination of northern Ontario’s resource-based tourism sites that are not accessible by road. This method estimates that the 1137 tourist sites of the region generated approximately $114 million in revenues in 2000. The analysis also estimated revenues for six sub-regions and for different types of operations that were segmented by accessibility and accommodation type. We found that revenues were much higher for sites in northwestern than in northeastern regions of Ontario, and that float plane-accessible sites commanded significantly greater revenues than did train- or boat-accessible sites. Key words: resource-based tourism, revenues, use, method, criteria and indicators, supply
The FORWARD Project: Objectives, framework and initial integration into a Detailed Forest Management Plan in Alberta
Authors: Prepas Ellie E , Putz Gordon , Smith Daniel W , Burke Janice M. , MacDonald J. Douglas
Published: February 2014

The Forest Watershed and Riparian Disturbance (FORWARD) project input into the Millar Western Forest Products Ltd. Detailed Forest Management Plan consists of three main components: 1) watershed and stream layer maps and associated datasets; 2) soil and wetland layer maps and associated datasets; and 3) a lookup table that permits planners to determine runoff coefficients (the variable selected for hydrological modelling) for functional first order watersheds, based upon various site factors and time since disturbance. The watershed and stream layer component includes a hydrological network, a Digital Elevation Model, and Strahler classified streams and watersheds for functional first and third order watersheds in the entire Millar Western Forest Management Agreement area. Relatively coarse mineral soils (which drain quickly) and wetlands (which retain water) were the key features that needed to be identified for the FORWARD modelling effort; therefore, the soil and wetland layers represent a combined soil texture and wetland coverage. The runoff coefficient lookup table integrates predictions of hydrologic impacts of harvest into planning. Key words: forest management, watershed, hydrology, stream, soils, wetlands, modelling
One hundred years of forestry education at UNB (1908–2008)
Authors: Jordan Glen , Powell Graham R
Published: February 2014

Some key events that have shaped forestry instruction at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) following introduction of a BScF degree programme in 1908 are recounted. These include building of the Forestry and Geology Building in 1931, creation of the Faculty of Forestry in 1947, the large influx of students following WWII, extension of the BScF programme to five years in 1952, introduction of options in 1963, addition of a BScFE degree programme in 1968 and subsequently creation of Forest Resources and Forest Engineering Departments within the Faculty, addition of the New Forestry Building in 1976, early adoption and subsequent emphasis on computer technology from 1971 onward, graduation of its first PhD student in 1985, development in 1988 of the Faculty's Tweeddale Centre in the Hugh John Flemming Forestry Complex adjacent the UNB Woodlot, a massive increase in enrolments throughout the late 1980s and 1990s followed by a significant decline, significant curriculum changes in 1993, disbanding of Departments and renaming of the Faculty in 1994 to the Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Management, the move in 2007 back to four-year degree programmes, and in 2008, introduction of a third bachelor's degree programme, Environment and Natural resources (BScENR). Key words: University of New Brunswick, Forestry Faculty, history, degrees, facilities, personnel, departments, programmes, Fredericton
Social values in forest management: An adventure in teaching
Authors: Beckley Thomas M
Published: February 2014

Social values issues are becoming increasingly prominent in discussions of forest management and forest policy. This represents an evolution in thinking from the time, only a few decades ago, when a majority believed that virtually all resource management problems had technical, science-based solutions. This article first describes the ascendance of scientific forestry and its subsequent evolution into a more explicitly sociological endeavour. Specifically, it addresses the challenge of educating foresters to have the awareness, understanding, tools and ethical framework to deal with the complex social, political and values-based issues that permeate all of forestry. Key words: foresters' education, professional socialization, social issues, ethics, teaching tools and strategies
New ways of teaching geomatics courses in forestry: Online delivery
Authors: Leblon Brigitte , LaRocque Armand , Jordan Glen A , Gil María Luz
Published: February 2014

Lectures and supervised laboratory sessions are the classical methods of teaching geomatics (GISscience, photo-interpretation and remote sensing) courses. This paper describes a new teaching method that uses multimedia and Internet technology in offering self-paced, web-based courses. Advantages and disadvantages of each method are presented. Key words: teaching, remote sensing, GISscience, photo-interpretation Internet, multimedia.
Research on belowground productivity and ecophysiology of balsam fir and sugar maple in New Brunswick
Authors: Krasowski M. J. , Lavigne M B
Published: February 2014

We are investigating responses of ecosystem processes to climate and silvicultural practices to improve predictions of climate change impacts and to assess opportunities for adapting to impending changes. This involves studies of fine- and coarse-root dynamics, the distribution of net primary production between aboveground and belowground components of balsam fir (Abies balsamea [L.] Mill.) and sugar maple (Acer saccharum [Marsh.]) and photosynthetic capacity of balsam fir during winter and spring. Ongoing studies are described. Key words: fine roots, coarse roots, conifer, hardwood, net primary production, biomass dynamics, photosynthetic recovery, root lifespan, root turnover, soil temperature
Improving forest operations planning through high-resolution flow-channel and wet-areas mapping
Authors: Murphy Paul N.C. , Ogilvie Jae , Castonguay Mark , Zhang Cheng-fu , Meng Fan-Rui , Arp Paul A
Published: February 2014

This article describes a mapping process designed to provide forest management with high-resolution flow-channel and wet-area maps for forest operations planning. The process requires digital elevation models (DEMs) and hydrographic data, and also portrays the likely depth to surface water across forested terrains away from any nearest surface-water features such as streams, rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Map applications involve layout of roads and trails, automated selection of best road–stream crossings, minimizing earth-moving operations during road construction, detailing in-block plans for temporary roads and channel crossings, and delineating habitats, machine-free zones and blocks for harvesting, tree planting, site preparation, and stand thinning. Map verifications centre on visual comparisons of map features with land-surface images, and these can be coupled with GPS tracking of wetland and wet-area borders, stream channels, and road-stream crossings. Further developments involve increasing the wet-areas map resolution and accuracy with LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) bare-ground DEMs and other fine-gridded DEMs, and expanding the applications to mapping of soils, soil properties and tree and crop productivity, to watershed and road-network management, to off-road trafficability, and to impact evaluations dealing with hydrological sensitivities and risks. Key words: forest operations planning, geographic information systems, digital elevation models, flow-channels, wet areas and depth-to-water maps, hydrological risks
The role played by UNB in wood products innovation in Atlantic Canada
Authors: Chui Ying H , Gong Meng , Price Shaun , Chan Felisa
Published: February 2014

This paper provides an overview of the historical development of wood science instruction and research at the Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Management, University of New Brunswick, and the role played by the Wood Science and Technology Centre in enhancing the level of innovation in the wood industry in Atlantic Canada. A review of some of the wood product innovation needs for Atlantic Canada is also given. Key words: wood product innovation, wood science education, lumber scanning, wood modification, structural wood products, reconstituted wood products, wood durability, wood chemical products
The Canadian Ecology Centre – Forestry Research Partnership: Implementing a research strategy based on an active adaptive management approach
Authors: Bell F. Wayne , Baker James A , Bruemme George , Pineau John , Stinson Al
Published: February 2014

Between April 2000 and March 2007, the Canadian Ecology Centre – Forestry Research Partnership funded, directed, or catalyzed approximately 145 projects. Most of these focused on knowledge and data acquisition, providing a solid foundation for a series of sensitivity and gap analyses to determine whether a long-term goal of enhancing productivity on 6 forest management units in Ontario was achievable, and more importantly, sustainable. A research strategy provided the focus for knowledge and data acquisition and the partnership facilitated integrated research, development, transfer, and implementation. Here we provide an overview of this effort, which is expected to position forest managers of the 6 forests to apply an adaptive management process to increase understanding of the response of their forests to various forest management policies and practices in the future. The strategy and approach described could be useful to other jurisdictions aiming to more closely integrate forest research and operations as well as those interested in implementing adaptive management. Key words: forest ecology, forest economics, forest inventory, forest management
An evaluation of DEMs derived from LiDAR and photogrammetry for wetland mapping
Authors: Hogg A R , Holland J.
Published: February 2014

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) and Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) have been engaged in developing an efficient and accurate methodology for inventorying wetlands. Their progress in this area has demonstrated that Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) are crucial input for wetland identification and boundary delineation. The provincial DEM, however, has known precision limitations in areas of minimal topographic relief that cause considerable mapping error. This study explored whether wetland mapping derived from bare-earth light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data would overcome the limitations of the provincial DEM. An automated wetland mapping approach was applied to the 2 elevation datasets and the results were compared using 2 methods of validation. One hundred aerial-photo-interpreted sample plots were used to quantitatively measure the ability of each source to separate upland from wetland. An overlay of wetland maps created from the 2 DEM sources was then qualitatively assessed to further clarify the magnitude of discrepancy between the 2 mapping sources. The study concluded that LiDAR showed a significant improvement at p = 0.05 over the provincial DEM for mapping wetlands, improving overall mapping accuracy from 76% to 84%. However, an overlay analysis and qualitative assessment showed the magnitude of this reported improvement is greater than was quantified by the accuracy assessment and that an assessment scheme with different sample units may further elucidate this discrepancy. Key words: LiDAR, DEM, wetland, mapping
A strategy for seed management with climate change
Authors: Wang B.S.P. , Morgenstern E K
Published: February 2014

While climate change has been generally accepted by the forestry community, we are still searching for ways and means to alleviate its impact. We still have to collect seeds, for example, to support continued reforestation programs. To provide some guidance for meeting the changing environments, we felt it is important to review the current seed management strategy, discuss species adaptability and seed source as well as collection, handling, germination, treatment and storage. Further, we give recommendations to minimize the impact of climate change. Key words: adaptation, seed source, collection, handling, storage, dormancy treatment, germination, genetic and physiological quality, seedling production
Effects of partial harvesting on vertebrate species associated with late-successional forests in Ontario’s boreal region
Authors: Vanderwel M C , Mills S C , Malcolm J R
Published: February 2014

In the boreal forest region, partial-harvest silviculture has been garnering increasing interest as a means of maintaining wildlife species and habitat structure associated with late-successional forests. If late-successional species can find suitable habitat in partially harvested stands with a given level of structural retention, then partial harvesting might represent a viable silvicultural tool for maintaining wildlife dependent on mature or old-forest habitat within managed stands over time. Here we summarize literature on the responses of late-successional amphibians, birds, and mammals in Ontario’s boreal region to various intensities of partial harvesting. We assess species responses from comparisons of habitat use in harvested and unharvested stands; we do not explicitly consider impacts of partial harvesting applied over large areas across the landscape. At the stand scale, light-intensity harvesting (70% retention) negatively affects several passerine birds, as well as spruce grouse winter habitat, but most late-successional species (including all mammals and amphibians considered) appear to be tolerant of this level of habitat alteration. Moderate-intensity harvesting (50% retention) was found to reduce the abundance of about 40% of the species considered, particularly cavity- and snag-dependent species (martens, northern flying squirrels, owls) and passerine birds that forage or nest in the canopy and understory. High-intensity (30% retention) partial harvesting was found to provide unsuitable habitat for about one quarter of all late-successional species, including most forest raptors, pileated and black-backed woodpeckers, brown creepers, northern flying squirrels, and woodland caribou. Also, studies indicate that additional passerine bird species would decrease in abundance, as would small, moisture-dependent, terrestrial species such as short-tailed shrews, red-backed voles, and eastern red-backed salamanders. There is a need to strengthen our understanding of responses to partial harvesting for nonpasserine birds and large mammals, and to verify species responses through experimental studies within Ontario’s boreal region. Key words: structural retention, selection, shelterwood, seed tree, cavities, snags, downed woody debris, habitat suitability, amphibians, birds, mammals, biodiversity, review
Institutional vacuums in Canadian forest policy: Can criteria and indicators and certification of sustainable forest management fill the void?
Authors: Luckert M.K. (Marty) , Boxall Peter C
Published: February 2014

This paper discusses the potential of certification and criteria and indicators (C&I) of sustainable forest management (SFM) for filling voids in forest policy in Canada. These processes have promised advances towards SFM that the current property rights conveyed on the forest industry, through existing systems of tenures, may simply not allow. In general, the broad social welfare approach that current thinking in sustainable development supports, and that certification and criteria and indicators appear to employ, is not consistent with the incentives, rights, and responsibilities that private forestry firms currently hold. There is a fundamental mismatch between the property rights that have been conveyed to private firms operating on public forest lands and what the policy frameworks of certification and C&I are expected to deliver. The conclusion is that if the voids in forest policy are to be successfully filled by certification and C&I, the underlying property rights currently held by firms will need revision. Key words: sustainable forest management, criteria and indicators, certification, Canadian forest policy, forest tenures
The importance of markets in the allocation of differentiated timber
Authors: Stone Michael
Published: February 2014

The Canadian Wood Fibre Centre's goal is to enhance the value extracted from our forest resources by identifying important timber attributes and encouraging the flow of differentiated timber to its highest valued use. Coordination of resource use is, in fact, the primary objective of any economic system, and one that market systems accomplish with great efficiency through price signals. As such, this paper is an unabashed call for the greater use of transparent market mechanisms as a means of obtaining better use of our forest resources. First, the role of markets and market institutions are reviewed. Then the application of market mechanisms to differentiated timber through the use of log-grading and pricing systems is advocated, and the use and advantages obtained from log markets of several jurisdictions are presented. Finally, potential obstacles to market development and ways to overcome these obstacles are discussed. Key words: log markets, timber allocation, timber pricing, economic institutions
Relative effects of dendrometers on the estimation of diameter at breast height, stand basal area and stand volume in uneven-aged northern hardwoods
Authors: Guillemette François , Lambert Marie-Claude
Published: February 2014

Four methods of estimating diameter at breast height (DBH) were used on 558 northern hardwood stems, located in 6, 0.25-ha plots, to compare their effects. The first method was a diameter tape reading and the second was a systematic reading, along a predefined axis, taken with a calliper. The last 2 methods were both obtained from the arithmetic mean of 2 different pairs of calliper readings taken at right angles. The first pair was directed along the major bole axis and the other pair along the minor axis. The 4 methods were compared in terms of mean tree diameter, plot basal area and plot volume. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in parameter estimates among methods, and the differences varied according to species (Acer saccharum Marsh. and Betula alleghaniensis Britt.) and tree size class. Differences among methods were more evident for larger DBH classes, which contribute most to the significant differences observed for both the plot and stand basal area and volume. Overall, tree DBH, plot basal area and plot volume provided by these 4 methods ranked in this ascending order: mean calliper reading directed along the minor axis, systematic calliper reading, mean calliper reading directed along the major axis, and diameter tape. The difference in stand basal area or volume between the estimates obtained with a systematic calliper reading and a diameter tape was 1.1 m2/ha with a mean basal area of about 21 m2/ha, or 10.5 m3/ha with a mean stand volume of 169 m3/ha. Because of the magnitude of these differences, it is recommended the method of DBH estimation be specified in studies, to be careful when crossing databases or models using different methods of DBH estimation, and to always maintain the same method of DBH estimation when remeasuring a plot. Key words: northern hardwoods, dendrometer, diameter tape, calliper, caliper, DBH measurement, basal area, volume
Lumber grade yield, and value of plantation-grown black spruce from 3 stands in northwestern Ontario
Authors: Reid Douglas E.B. , Young Steven , Tong Queju , Zhang S Y , Morris Dave M
Published: February 2014

Three black spruce plantations in northwestern Ontario, with varied stand densities and site indices were studied to determine lumber properties and yield. Based on visual grading rules, each stand produced at least 87% No. 2 and Better grade lumber. Wane and skip were the 2 most prominent defects causing lumber downgrades. The compliance of visually graded No. 2 and Better lumber with bending modulus of elasticity (MOE) design values for visual grades varied among stands, as did the proportion that qualified as machine stress-rated (MSR) lumber. MOE and Modulus of Rupture (MOR) differed among stands, consistent with differences in MSR yield. The stand with the highest density and the lowest site index produced the highest yield of MSR grade lumber, but not the highest compliance with bending MOE design values. Regardless of the grading scenario, the most productive stand with the largest average tree size produced the highest value per hectare ($28K per ha) under an MSR grading scenario. These results suggest that MSR grading can improve revenues, and that it will be needed to maintain market confidence in the quality of lumber from second-growth black spruce stands. Key words: lumber quality, Picea mariana (Mill.) BSP, market value, density regulation, stand-level effects, intensive silviculture
Relationship of spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana) emergence and balsam fir (Abies balsamea) bud flush to climate indices
Authors: Thomson Alan J
Published: February 2014

Temperature records from weather stations across eastern Canada were used with published data on degree-day requirements for spruce budworm larval emergence and balsam fir bud flush to estimate historical patterns of larval emergence and timing of bud flush. The pattern of association was studied using Response Surface Analysis and was found to vary from west to east. April values of the Pacific/North American (PNA) pattern, Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and Northern Annular Mode (NAM) climate indices showed the most significant relationship to both emergence and bud flush in the 2 Ontario stations, while May values of the PDO and Eastern Pacific (EP) indices were most significant in the 4 Quebec and New Brunswick locations. Key words: phenology, balsam fir, teleconnections
Recent global trends in forest tenures
Authors: Kant Shashi
Published: February 2014

Wide-ranging changes in forest tenures have occurred globally in recent decades, and the changes in developed countries and transition economies have been dominated by market forces. Market-based forest tenure changes are discussed in 4 categories: (i) forest management by a state-owned company (Sweden); (ii) commercialization, corporatization, and privatization of plantations (New Zealand, South Africa and Australia); (iii) creation of forest enterprises within state forestry agencies (the United Kingdom, Germany, and transition economies); and (iv) changes in forest tenures in economies in transition. The global tenure changes provide no empirical evidence in support of any specific form of tenure. I suggest 9 guiding principles, instead of a specific type of tenure, for forest tenure reform in Canada. Forest reforms should be organized: (i) keeping the future of forestry in perspective; (ii) for multiple attributes of forests; (iii) to provide flexibility, diversity, and adaptiveness; (iv) to foster forest industry competitiveness; (v) for economically optimal timber supply; (vi) to maximize the value of harvested timber; (vii) to recognize and deal with the non-separation of forest management and timber allocation and harvest; (viii) to select an appropriate organizational form, such as state business enterprise, corporation, or state-owned company, based on a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis; and (ix) to seek inputs from an expert group–without direct stakeholders. Key words: Australia, Canada, commercialization, corporatization, forest enterprise, forest tenure, Germany, New Zealand, privatization, South Africa, Sweden, transition economies, United Kingdom
Preliminary investigation of the effects of timber harvesting on the activity status of beaver lodges in central Ontario, Canada
Authors: Landriault Lynn J , Naylor Brian J , Mills Stephen C , Lewis Dianna
Published: February 2014

Beavers (Castor canadensis) are widely considered a keystone species in boreal and northern temperate forest ecosystems and are seasonally dependent on intolerant hardwood tree species for food. We used existing data to investigate the effects of timber harvesting on the activity status of beaver lodges in central Ontario, Canada. Beaver lodges were initially visited from 1976 to 1979 and active lodges were revisited in 1994. We analyzed a sample of 100 lodges. Fifty had some timber harvesting within 400 m of the lodge, 41 of which had harvest within 100 m of the shoreline (subsequently referred to as shoreline harvest). We differentiated timber harvest by type (clearcut vs. partial cut), years since harvest, and location for each lodge. Clearcut timber harvesting appeared to have a positive effect on the occupancy of beaver lodges. Seventy-three percent of lodges adjacent to shoreline clearcut areas were active, whereas only 34% of lodges with no shoreline harvest were active. We developed logistic regression models to evaluate the relationship between presence of timber harvest and activity status based on harvest location, harvest type, years since harvest, and water feature (pond, stream, lake, or wetland). Using Akaike’s Information Criterion, our modeling suggested that the presence of a 21- to 35-year-old shoreline clearcut adjacent to a lodge, combined with the associated water feature type, was the best predictor of lodge activity. However, our dataset included only a small sample of lodges in this harvest category (n = 11). While these results are viewed as preliminary, they do suggest that further investigation into the effects of shoreline timber harvest and shoreline reserves on habitat suitability for beavers is warranted. Key words: beaver, beaver pond, boreal, clearcut, forestry, Great Lakes – St. Lawrence, natural disturbance, Ontario, partial harvest, riparian, shoreline
Intensive biomass removals and site productivity in Canada: A review of relevant issues
Authors: Thiffault Evelyne , Paré David , Brais Suzanne , Titus Brian D.
Published: February 2014

A renewed interest in the intensive harvesting of forest biomass as a source of bioenergy in North America raises concerns about the impacts that this practice may have on the maintenance of forest soil productivity. In Canada, such concerns were first voiced in the 1970s, and studies were launched to investigate and predict the impact of intensive forest biomass removal on site productivity. Most of these studies focused on static nutrient budgets. In Canada and around the world, more detailed process models were also developed to study carbon, nitrogen and base cation cycles under different forest harvesting intensities. However, the validity of modelling results is still constrained by our lack of knowledge on the capacity of ecosystems to supply nutrients. A few sets of field trials have been established in Canada to gather empirical data on the impact of biomass removal on soil nutrient reserves as well as on tree nutrition and growth. Although still fairly recent, these field trials, along with the older ones established in other countries with similar site conditions and climates, provide opportunities to refine our understanding of the resilience of ecosystem processes and of the impacts of intensive biomass removal on ecosystem functions. Although numerous knowledge gaps and questions remain, some jurisdictions around the world have nevertheless issued policy directives and developed guidelines for biomass harvesting. As described by the concept of adaptive forest management, ecological monitoring of harvesting operations, scientific field testing and modelling can all interact to produce better knowledge that could then help improve policy directives.

Key words: bioenergy, biomass, intensive harvesting, environmental sustainability
Good-practice guidelines for whole-tree harvesting in Sweden: Moving science into policy
Authors: Levin Rachele , Eriksson Hillevi
Published: February 2014

Concerns over climate change, peak oil and energy security have prompted countries such as Sweden to develop policies that promote alternative energy sources, including forest-based bioenergy. Sweden is at the forefront of research and development on forest-based bioenergy and has employed a model of science-based policy development to implement bioenergy production systems. In response to environmental concerns over whole-tree harvesting for bioenergy in Sweden, a number of government-funded research programs on forest-derived bioenergy have been undertaken with the intent of generating knowledge about the effects of whole-tree harvesting, ash recycling and bioenergy-related silvicultural practices on ecological systems and values such as soil, nutrient balances, water, biodiversity, greenhouse gas balances and recreation. Sweden developed a series of recommendations and good-practice guidelines for whole tree harvesting starting in 1986 and ending with the most recent revision in 2008. These guidelines and regulations are based on various scientific studies and include prescriptions and mandates to minimize environmental damage caused by whole tree harvesting for bioenergy. From the beginning, the process of developing effective guidelines and regulations governing whole tree harvesting in Sweden has been informed by science. Guidelines and regulations govern the areas of site productivity, utilization of recycled wood ash, biodiversity and physical damage to trees and soils. Overall, Sweden’s experience demonstrates the way in which science can be used to inform guidelines and policies.

Key words: Sweden, bioenergy, ash recycling, energy policy, good-practice guidelines, regulations, environment
A comparison of forest resource inventory, provincial land cover maps and field surveys for wildlife habitat analysis in the Great Lakes – St. Lawrence forest
Authors: Maxie Andrea J. , Hussey Karen F. , Lowe Stacey J. , Middel Kevin R. , Pond Bruce A. , Obbard Martyn E. , Patterson Brent R.
Published: February 2014

In a portion of central Ontario, Canada we assessed the classification agreement between field-based estimates of forest stand composition and each of two mapped data sources used in wildlife habitat studies, the Forest Resource Inventory (FRI) and satellite-image derived Provincial Land Cover (PLC). At two study areas, Algonquin Provincial Park (APP) and Wildlife Management Unit 49 (WMU49), we surveyed 119 forest stands and 40 water and wetland stands. Correspondence levels between FRI and field classifications were 48% in APP and 44% in WMU49 when assessing six forest cover types. With only four simplified forest cover types, levels improved to 77% in APP and 63% in WMU49. Correspondence between PLC and field classifications for three forested stand types was approximately 63% in APP and 55% in WMU49. Because of the poor to moderate level of correspondence we detected between map and field classifications, we recommend that care be exercised when FRI or PLC maps are used in forest and wildlife research and management planning.

Key words: forest resource inventory, FRI, provincial land cover, PLC, Landsat Thematic Mapper, map accuracy, map correspondence, map agreement, Ontario, wildlife habitat
Further observations on sudden diebacks of Scots pine in the European Alps
Authors: Gonthier Paolo , Giordano Luana , Nicolotti Giovanni
Published: February 2014

Since the beginning of the 1990s, significant mortality of Scots pine trees has been observed in inner valleys of the Alps. The objectives of this work were to investigate and describe the aetiology of a Scots pine dieback in the Aosta Valley (western Italian Alps) in 2005. Surveys were conducted in three forest stands. Crown transparency was assessed to evaluate the incidence and severity of dieback symptoms. Phytosanitary surveys were also performed. The time series of the major climatic parameters was analyzed in order to identify common climatic anomalies between the dieback of 2005 and similar dieback episodes in other periods and in other areas of the western Alps. Dendrochronological analyses were performed to assess the relationship between tree-ring widths and climatic parameters. The lack of primary biotic agents and the low frequency of secondary pathogens suggest an abiotic origin of diebacks. The time series analysis shows that two consecutive years with a value of summer dryness index below 1.5 preceded the diebacks. Tree-ring width and summer dryness index were strongly and significantly associated.

Key words: climate change, forest dieback, Scots pine, crown transparency, ecophysiology, tree-ring width
Surface fire spread potential in trembling aspen during summer in the Boreal Forest Region of Canada
Authors: Alexander Martin E
Published: February 2014

In Canada, the importance of seasonality in forest fire danger rating associated with phenological changes in deciduous tree leaves and lesser ground vegetation has historically been taken into account by dividing the fire season into three distinct periods (i.e., spring, summer, and fall). During the mid-1980s, the developers of the Canadian Forest Fire Behavior Prediction (FBP) System did not envision that the M-2 Boreal Mixedwood  Green fuel type with 100% hardwood composition would eventually be explicitly interpreted by field users and other researchers to represent a trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) fuel type in the summer following green-up or flushing of the overstory canopy and understory vegetation. Interest in what has become to be known as the D-2 FBP System fuel type to represent leafed-out trembling aspen stands during the summer fire season has steadily increased since. Formal recognition of such a fuel type may very well constitute an example of overextending the original basis and heuristics associated with the rate of fire spread model for the M-2 FBP System fuel type. Thus, the assumptions underlying a D-2 fuel type are explicitly restated here for the benefit of fire managers and researchers alike. Furthermore, an interim guideline is presented with respect to the threshold condition in fuel dryness necessary for surface fire spread in the D-2 fuel type to occur based on existing empirical observations garnered from experimental fires, prescribed burns and wildfires. This criterion was deduced from existing information and knowledge, and is expressed in terms of the Buildup Index (BUI) component of the Canadian Forest Fire Weather Index System. The rationale for the descriptive name assigned to the D-2 fuel type and the corresponding fuel strata characteristics are given. Improvements in the present basis of the D-2 fuel type could be realized from monitoring selected wildfires and operational prescribed fires and/or by carrying out an experimental burning study.

Key words: Canadian Forest Fire Behavior Prediction System,Canadian Forest Fire Danger Rating System,Canadian Forest Fire Weather Index System,deciduous,fire behavior, fire danger, fire environment, fire hazard, fire potential, fire risk, forest flammability, fuel type, fuel moisture, green-up, hardwood, rate of fire spread.
Seedling size and woody competition most important predictors of growth following free-to-grow assessments in four boreal forest plantations
Authors: Sharma Mahadev , Bell F. Wayne , White R. G. , Morneault Andreé , Towill William D.
Published: February 2014

Improvements to forest management decisions require accurate and quantifiable information. We examined the effects of various classes of competitors on crop tree growth in the context of free-to-grow standards using regression analysis. We found that seedling size accounted for most of the variation in height and volume growth of jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) and black spruce (Picea mariana [Mill.] BSP) plantations. Including herbaceous and woody competition as explanatory variables explained the additional variation on crop tree growth significantly. In the plantation initiation phase (years 2 to 6), the presence of herbaceous competitors generally reduced conifer growth but in the first part of the stem-exclusion phase (years 7 to 12) increased their growth. In all four boreal plantations in this study, woody competitors reduced conifer growth in both the initiation and stem-exclusion phases. These results have relevance to forest managers who develop and/or use free-to-grow surveys.

Key words: vegetation management, silviculture, effectiveness monitoring, forest management, regeneration success, competition effect
Le CERFO : un quart de siècle d’innovation
Authors: Lessard Guy , Blouin Donald , Boulfroy Emmanuelle , Grenon Frank , Ruel Mélanie
Published: February 2014

With activities in most regions of Quebec, CERFO (Centre d’enseignement et de recherche en foresterie de Sainte-Foy inc.) has developed a recognized expertise in forestry topics including silviculture, sustainable forest management, forest ecology, harvesting operations, GIS and wood processing. The Centre is known for addressing practical issues using engineering processes for silviculture, forest management, harvesting and wood supply and for being a technological transfer centre. 2009 marked the 25th anniversary of the Centre and as such this is a good opportunity to summarize the important accomplishments of the Centre in applied research, technical assistance and customized training.

Key words: silviculture, forest management, ecology, irregular high forest, forest certification, management of harvesting operations, optimization, wood processing, agroforestry, technological transfer, training
Negative or positive effects of plantation and intensive forestry on biodiversity: A matter of scale and perspective
Authors: Hartmann Henrik , Daoust Gaëtan , Bigué Brigitte
Published: February 2014

Terrestrial biodiversity is closely linked to forest ecosystems but anthropogenic reductions in forest cover and changes in forest structure and composition jeopardize their biodiversity. Several forest species are threatened because of reduced habitat quality and fragmentation or even habitat loss as a result of forest management activities. In response to this threat, integrated forest management (IFM) was developed in the early 1990s and has been applied over large spatial scales ever since. While IFM seeks to satisfy both human resource demands and ecosystem integrity, the whole forest matrix is affected and this may also have negative impacts on biodiversity. The concept of forest zoning (e.g., Triad) avoids these issues by physically separating land uses from each other. The zoning approach has been developed in the same period as IFM, but there are still very few examples of large-scale applications. This may be because its distinctiveness from IFM may not always seem clear and because forest zoning is not easily implemented. Here we explain these differences and show that IFM and the zoning approach are indeed different management paradigms. We advocate the use of high-yield plantations within the zoning paradigm as a means for biodiversity conservation and review the literature (with an emphasis on the northern hemisphere and on plantation forestry within a land-zoning approach) on impacts of forest management activities on biodiversity. Furthermore, we give advice on issues that require consideration when implementing forest zoning at both the stand and the landscape levels. We recommend several small changes in design and management of forest plantations as a means to significantly increase their biodiversity value. We conclude that while forest zoning seems an adequate strategy for the Canadian forestry sector, a shift in paradigm must carry over to policy-makers and legislation if this approach is to succeed.

Key words: biodiversity, landbase zoning, forest management, intensive silviculture, plantation forests
Essais de jardinage sans martelage dans des peuplements irréguliers de sapin baumier et d’épinette noire
Authors: Cimon-Morin Jérôme , Ruel Jean-Claude , Darveau Marcel , Lussier Jean-Martin , Meek Philippe , Roy Vincent
Published: February 2014

It is increasingly accepted that silviculture must now try to maintain complex stands. In this context, selection cutting has been suggested as an option for irregular boreal stands. However, selection cutting in virgin stands could prove difficult to apply at a reasonable cost. In an attempt to reduce harvesting costs, two selection cutting patterns were implemented, avoiding tree marking. The efficacy of this approach was evaluated by comparing the results of plots harvested without tree marking to those with tree marking. To proceed in the absence of tree marking, silvicultural types were defined as well as a rule for the selection of stems to harvest; the final choice of stems to fell was therefore left to the operator upon harvesting. The effects of the different silvicultural and tree marking treatments were examined in relation to their ability to maintain the main structural and functional attributes of irregular boreal stands. A follow-up was conducted with regards to structure, composition, residual stand basal area, abundance of woody debris and mortality. The absence of marking did not affect the performance of selection cutting treatments in terms of basal area, quadratic mean diameter and Shannon index. Tree vigour was not modified by harvesting, both with and without tree marking. Stand composition was not influenced by the absence of marking. Snag abundance was reduced to similar levels regardless of marking. Tree marking did not influence the abundance of downed woody debris. As a consequence, it seems possible to apply a simplified approach of selection cutting, without compromising the success of the treatment in these stands.Key words: black spruce, Picea mariana, balsam fir, Abies balsamea, irregular stand, selection cutting, ecosystem management, forest attributes
A novel method for manually falling trees
Authors: Noll Florian , Lyons C. Kevin
Published: February 2014

This paper reports the results from a project that used a remotely operated hydraulic flange spreader and a novel holding wood pattern to remove the faller from the base of the tree when it starts to displace. The novel holding wood pattern uses two uncut strips of wood on the backcut side of the tree to hold the tree in static equilibrium while the flange spreader is inserted. Field testing resulted in 38 successes (81%) and nine failures (19%), where success of the method was insensitive to tree species, diameter, and height. Key words: logistic regression, manual tree falling, flange spreader, undercut design
Effects of diameter-limit by-laws on forestry practices, economics, and regional wood supply for private woodlands in southwestern Ontario
Authors: Schwan Terry D. , Elliott Ken A.
Published: February 2014

The agriculturally dominated Counties of Huron and Perth in southwestern Ontario regulate forest harvesting on private land through diameter-limit-based tree conservation by-laws. The rates of harvesting, along with the volume and value of timber sales and the type and quantity of tree marking were examined for the years 1997 to 1999. Although these harvests may form an important part of periodic farm income, at only 13% forest cover, these landscapes maybe further degraded by unsustainable forest harvesting practices. Based on the three study years, the mean annual area of forest harvested was found to be 4.4% of the total private forest landbase. The mean volume harvested from upland and lowland deciduous forest was 4666 and 6148 fbm/ha, respectively. Over-harvesting under a diameter-limit or hybrid method occurred in 8% of woodlot area with removal rates in excess of 10 000 fbm/ha. The most severe over-harvesting disproportionately targeted lowland woodlots, possibly compromising the ecological health of these often sensitive areas. Sugar maple, red/silver maple and ash were most commonly harvested at 33%, 31% and 21% of total species volume, respectively. On average, for standing timber, landowners received $680/Mfbm in the upland hardwood forests and $281/Mfbm in the lowland hardwood forests. On an area basis, mean price paid was $3680/ha and $1956/ha respectively on upland and lowland forests. Only 8% of the private land was harvested using single-tree selection or stand improvement (92% harvest was diameter-limit or a hybrid of same). Using a simple model, we found that woodlot owners comprising at least 74% of private woodland area would need to participate in forest harvesting in order to maintain the 1997 to 1999 partial harvest area rate of 2349 ha/yr. This rate may not be sustainable, given poor forest conditions in some areas, past management practices and a reduction in landowners interested in forest harvesting. Improvements are needed to bring the level of good forestry practice up by 62% to meet the rates that were being performed under pre-1994, free, provincial government private land forestry programs. Key words: private land forestry, forest harvesting, forest conservation by-laws, sustainable forest management, diameterlimit harvest, private woodlots