bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A survey of tree species of concern in Canada: the role for genetic conservation
Authors: Beardmore Tannis , Loo Judy , McAfee Brenda , Malouin Christian , Simpson Dale
Published: February 2014

A survey was conducted in 2003 to identify Canadian native tree species (woody perennials ≥10 m tall) that may be in need of genetic conservation. Thirty expert respondents from various agencies in provinces and territories graded the tree species in their respective geographical regions based on nine criteria that describe potential reasons for conservation (e.g., rarity, decreasing range or frequency, preferred habitat in high demand, uncertain viable seed source) and then provided a rating that identifies the type of conservation that may be required (species is in good shape, insufficient knowledge for a designation, in situ or ex situ conservation measures are required). Either in situ or ex situ conservation was recommended for 52% of Canada's native tree species, and 8% required more information before a rating could be made. The results of the survey will be used to identify genetic conservation priorities for tree species in Canada. Key words: Canadian tree species of concern, genetic conservation, genetic diversity, species rarity
The business of Criteria and Indicators in Sustainable Forest Management
Authors: Jeakins Paul
Published: February 2014

While forest companies in British Columbia have been active in the development and implementation of Criteria and Indicators (C&I) in planning for sustainable forest management, in many cases they are not yet considered to be a core business function. A business case for C&I means going beyond the current paradigm of meeting legislative requirements and identifying C&I for sustainable forest management strictly within the context of certification. Without a comprehensive business case that articulates how C&I programs affect a company's position in the market place in terms of measurable benefits, costs and exposure to risk, activities essential to sustaining the broad range of forestry-related socio-economic and ecological values may not get the prioritization and resources needed. Quantifying costs and benefits will help define how forest companies will most effectively meet their sustainable forest management objectives and identify opportunities for partnerships with government, First Nations, stakeholders and other companies in the collective management of the forest resource. Although some companies have begun to develop approaches to the business case for C&I, more work is needed in integrating the objectives and activities of SFM planning into the basic day-to-day operations of a company as well as providing training to resource managers to communicate in the language of business. Government should adopt and encourage a C&I business case approach to forest resource management by developing strong links to legislative and land use planning requirements. Key words: Criteria and Indicators, business case, sustainable forest management, certification, land use planning, forest industry
Outbreak patterns of the spruce budworm and their impacts in Canada
Authors: Gray D R , MacKinnon W E
Published: February 2014

Historical records (1941–1998) of spruce budworm defoliation in Canada were analyzed to estimate variability in the spatial and temporal patterns of defoliation, and to determine 27 representative patterns that adequately describe the spatial and temporal variability in defoliation. Spatially referenced estimates of growth loss and mortality resulting from an outbreak of spruce budworm were obtained by subjecting a national forest inventory to the spatially defined representative patterns of defoliation. The use of these estimates in determining the status of Canada's forests as a carbon source or sink is discussed. Key words: spruce budworm, defoliation, growth loss and mortality, carbon source or sink
Impact of the white pine weevil (Pissodes strobi Peck) on Norway spruce plantations (Picea abies [L.] Karst.) Part 1: Productivity and lumber quality
Authors: Daoust Gaëtan , Mottet Marie-Josée
Published: February 2014

A study to assess the effects that major deformations in merchantable stems of Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst.), caused by the white pine weevil (Pissodes strobi [Peck]), have on lumber productivity and quality was performed on logs obtained from a second commercial thinning operation in three weevil-affected plantations. Deformed stems were found to be 6.3% shorter than non-deformed stems and their lumber characteristics, i.e., merchantable volume, number of board feet and lumber monetary value, were 14.7%, 20.6% and 23.7% lower, respectively. However, when the respective proportions of deformed and non-deformed stems were analyzed for a given plantation over the time horizon of a complete rotation, these shortfalls almost disappeared, with a loss of less than 3% being noted for total merchantable volume. The presence/absence of major deformations had no effect on visual grading of the lumber, which takes defects such as wane, knots and compression wood into account. For two of the three sites studied, almost 75% of the lumber was graded as Select Structural, No. 1 or No. 2. The plantation site and its characteristics (spacing and level of thinning) were found to have a more significant effect than deformations on productivity, lumber quality and monetary value. Furthermore, using the same methodology, one of the Norway spruce sites was compared with a white spruce (Picea glauca [Moench] Voss) plantation containing trees of similar quality and height, but with no weevil problems. The Norway spruce stems, including those with deformations, were found to yield higher merchantable and usable log volumes, a larger number of board feet and a higher monetary value than white spruce. On average, for the diameter at breast height values tested — 14 to 23 cm — the monetary value of the lumber was 26% higher for Norway spruce. These findings are largely attributable to the less pronounced taper of Norway spruce. In conclusion, in spite of weevil attacks and their negative impact, Norway spruce trees growing on sites of moderate to very good quality maintain lumber potential, in terms of both quantity and quality, for second thinning logs. The negative impact should gradually decrease at the time of next thinnings and final harvest. Key words: white pine weevil, Pissodes strobi (Peck), Norway spruce, Picea abies (L.) Karst., wood quality, plantation, productivity
Does the Canadian forest sector have a viable future? Is current forest management acceptable to the general public? Would you advise your kids to take forestry?
Authors: MacLean David A
Published: February 2014

The forest sector in Canada is in the midst of some major changes, with mill closures and rationalization, major public reviews of Crown land management in several provinces, and declining enrollment in forestry programs across Canada and internationally. I will address the three questions in my title, provide some information, as well as my opinions regarding the answers (yes, no, and yes, respectively). Key words: forest industry competitiveness, public consultation, future directions of Crown land management, public perception, forestry enrollment
How do Alberta's, Ontario's and Quebec's forest operation laws respect ecological sustainable forest management criteria in the boreal forest?
Authors: Bourgeois Laurence , Kneeshaw Daniel , Imbeau Louis , Bélanger Nicolas , Yamasaki Stephen , Brais Suzanne
Published: February 2014

In order to receive forest certification and to respond to societal desires, many forest companies are attempting to demonstrate that their forest activities are «sustainable». The main objective of this paper is to qualitatively evaluate the ways in which forestry-related provincial regulations in the three provinces (Alberta, Ontario and Quebec) that contain most of the Canadian boreal forest help forest companies achieve certification with respect to ecological criteria. In the process of continually evolving towards sustainable forest management, we evaluate how these provincial regulations governing forest operations can be helpful in maintaining three criteria: biodiversity, the aquatic environment and soils. This study shows that the regulations evaluated have varied in their approach and thus have different strengths that must be underlined: (1) Ontario's approach is the strongest in terms of biodiversity, (2) Alberta and Ontario provide measures to abandon roads after harvesting, (3) Quebec provides the greatest specific measures for protecting waterways and aquatic species, (4) Alberta shows the greatest consideration for maintaining the most soil properties and functions. Better links between different regulations are necessary in all jurisdictions. The continual improvement of Canadian forest rules is often slow and advances at a different pace depending on regulators but it should be supported in all provinces. Key words: sustainable forest management, biodiversity, aquatic environment, soils, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec
Using spatially explicit simulations to explore size distribution and spacing of regenerating areas produced by wildfires: recommendations for designing harvest agglomerations for the Canadian boreal forest
Authors: Belleau Annie , Bergeron Yves , Leduc Alain , Gauthier Sylvie , Fall Andrew
Published: February 2014

It is now recognized that in the Canadian boreal forest, timber harvesting activities have replaced wildfires as the main stand-replacing disturbance. Differences in landscape patterns derived from these two sources of disturbance have, however, raised concerns that the way forest harvesting has been dispersed is potentially shifting patterns away from the natural range. In the context of natural disturbance-based management, we used a spatially explicit model designed to capture general fire regimes in order to quantify temporal variability associated with regenerating areas (burnt areas of 25 years or younger), and to develop strategic objectives for harvest agglomeration sizes and dispersion. We first evaluated temporal variability in the proportion of stands younger than 100 years (assumed to be even-aged stands) for various fire regimes (seven fire cycles: 50 to 400 years, and three mean fires sizes: 3000, 15 000 and 60 000 ha). Secondly, we quantified the size distribution and dispersion of regenerating areas for each fire regime. As expected by theoretical fire frequencies and size distributions, the importance of even-aged stands at the forest management unit level was found to decrease with longer fire cycles. However, the temporal variability associated with these proportions is shown to increase with mean fire size. It was also observed that the size distribution and dispersion of regenerating areas was primarily influenced by mean fire size. Based on these observations, natural disturbance-based management objectives were formulated, providing guidelines on harvest agglomeration size and dispersion. Key words: temporal variability, boreal forest, fire regime, forest management, age distribution, fire size distribution, clearcut agglomeration size distribution
L'effet du patron de répartition des coupes sur les pertes par chablis : étude de cas dans la sapinière à bouleau blanc de l'Est
Authors: Larouche Catherine , Ruel Jean-Claude , Bélanger Louis
Published: February 2014

The use of clearcutting involves the creation of exposed edges that become vulnerable to windthrow. The spatial distribution of cutblocks can influence the level of damage. This study compares windthrow losses at edges of clearcuts for two spatial distributions of clearcuts in the balsam fir-white birch ecological domain. The level of windthrow was estimated from aerial photographs of five year-old clearcuts. The proportion of windthrow in the first 30 m of edges around clearcuts amounted to 20.4% for grouped clearcuts in comparison with 15.8% for dispersed clearcuts. Dispersed cutting did not modify the level of damage per unit length of edge. However, the greater perimeter for a similar cut area in the dispersed pattern led to a greater amount of damage per area harvested (15.99 vs. 6.34 m3·ha-1). Key words: windthrow, logging edges, landscape patterns, grouped clearcut, dispersed patch cutting, balsam fir
Outdoor recreation and forest management: A plea for empirical data
Authors: Harshaw H W , Sheppard S.R.J. , Kozak R A
Published: February 2014

For many people, outdoor recreation provides one of the main opportunities to experience, interact with, and learn about forested landscapes. Yet public recreation use of forests in Canada is not yet well understood; knowing more about this important forest stakeholder group would help to address aspects of social sustainability in forest management. Four considerations for explicitly addressing outdoor recreation interests in forest land-use planning and for the collection of recreation data are presented: (1) normative; (2) pragmatic; (3) economic; and (4) governance. Approaches for the collection of recreation-use characteristics are also discussed. Key words: outdoor recreation, data collection, sustainable forest management, social values
Tree species of concern in New Brunswick, Canada. II. Guidelines for conservation of genetic resources
Authors: Loo J A , Beardmore T L , Simpson J D , McPhee D A
Published: February 2014

Guidelines were developed by the New Brunswick Forest Gene Conservation Working Group for conserving genetic resources of four native tree species in New Brunswick. Gene conservation guidelines for three of these species aim to maintain sufficient gene pools of known or putatively resistant stock to retain or develop the potential for restoration. Natural populations of American beech (Fagus grandifolia) are known to have genotypes resistant to the beech scale at low frequencies. Gene conservation approaches include in situ and ex situ measures, including resistance breeding. White elm (Ulmus americana) demonstrates a degree of resistance to Dutch elm disease (DED), and will benefit from a mixture of in situ and ex situ conservation measures. Resistance to butternut canker has not yet been demonstrated in populations of butternut (Juglans cinerea), but ex situ conservation of putatively resistant genotypes will be of increasing importance as the frequency of butternut canker escalates. Bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa), threatened by small population size, habitat loss, and ongoing development, requires primarily in situ conservation and restoration efforts. Key words: American beech, bur oak, butternut, disease resistance, ex situ, gene conservation guidelines, genetic resources, in situ, restoration, white elm
The origin and early application of the principle of sustainable forest management
Authors: Morgenstern E K
Published: February 2014

Foresters are among the first professionals that developed principles for sustainability. The need for sustainable forests was first expressed in Germany by H.K. von Carlowitz in 1713. Since about 1800 methods to achieve sustainability based on wood volume, forest area, or growing stock have been introduced in all jurisdictions in Germany and Austria. The general acceptance of the sustainability principle, improved education and professionalism of foresters, and the reform of forest administrations have all contributed to the success of forestry in central Europe. In Canada, forest conservation and sustainable management have been discussed since 1907 when university education in forestry was initiated, and sustainability is now firmly established in all provinces. Key words: history of forestry, forest inventory, forest regulation, forest management, G.L. Hartig, H. Cotta, J.C. Hundeshagen, B.E. Fernow
Biophysical sustainability, process-based monitoring and forest ecosystem management decision support systems
Authors: Kimmins J P , Rempel R S , Welham C V.J. , Seely B. , Van Rees K C.J.
Published: February 2014

Sustainability is a key concept in resource management and environmental issues, but implementation is fraught with difficulty due to lack of agreement as to what it means. Because of the ubiquity of disturbance, ecosystem sustainability inevitably involves change. We define stand-level biophysical sustainability as non-declining patterns of change over at least three cycles of disturbance, and landscape-level sustainability as a shifting mosaic of non-declining stand change, the overall character of which remains within acceptable limits over time. Simple empirical assessment (i.e., monitoring) of this concept of sustainability is generally not practical in forestry because of the long time and large spatial scales involved. Adaptive management (AM), another key resource management concept, involves monitoring to assess the consequences of management actions. It requires forecasts of expected change in sustainably managed, post-disturbance ecosystems against which to assess monitoring data. Without these forecasts, which constitute temporal fingerprints of sustainable change, short-term monitoring data cannot be used reliably as a basis from which to assess longer-term sustainability. A comprehensive monitoring system to address biophysical sustainability locally and at the landscape scale for a large management unit over a rotation-length time scale would involve the key elements of ecosystem structure and function and the effects thereon of management and climate change. This would be prohibitively expensive and demanding of human resources and the results would not be available until the end of the rotation. A strategy that honours the intent of AM is an intimate linkage between predictive monitoring and process-based ecosystem management decision support systems—ecosystem process-based monitoring—the emphasis of which is on temporal patterns of indicator change rather than comparisons between static indicators and audits of current ecosystem conditions (the certification approach). It involves a combination of monitoring and ecosystem management modeling that reduces the long-term cost of monitoring and increases the utility of the data collected for the assessment of sustainability and for the design of policy and adaptive practice in forestry. Key words: prediction, process-based monitoring, sustainability, forest ecosystems, biophysical indicators, temporal fingerprints, adaptive management, ecosystem management models
Gender representation on Canadian forest sector advisory committees
Authors: Reed Maureen G. , Varghese Jeji
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a gender-based analysis of a national survey of 102 Canadian forest sector advisory committees. We consider both nominal and effective participation of participants and pay particular attention to how participants gained access to committees, what values they held, and what kinds of experiences they reported. Our analysis revealed that women comprise less than 20 percent of the membership of advisory committees, they hold significantly different values, and they rate their experiences less favourably than men. Consequently, exclusion of women has likely reinforced a timber extraction bias and has restricted women's contributions to advancing the aims of sustainable forestry. Key words: forest sector advisory committees, gender, public participation, forestry
Policy advice for public participation in British Columbia forest management
Authors: DesRoches C. Tyler
Published: February 2014

This paper explores the current status of public participation in BC forest management with the objective of finding ways to improve it at the policy level. Public participation is discussed in relation to features of deliberative democratic theory and then within the historical context of BC forest management. Recent public complaints concerning inadequate participatory opportunities received at the Forest Practices Board and the move to diminish the extent of public participation in land-use planning is discussed. This paper maintains that effective public participation should be a goal of public forest management and that a corresponding policy should be devised. Key words: public participation, forest management, legitimacy, British Columbia
Remise en production des bétulaies jaunes résineuses dégradées : étude du succès d'installation de la régénération
Authors: Gastaldello Pierre , Ruel Jean-Claude , Lussier Jean-Martin
Published: February 2014

The abundance of poor quality stands in the North American hardwood and mixedwood forests poses important regeneration challenges. These stands have an open canopy with a well-developed shrub layer dominated by noncommercial species. The present study aims at testing the efficiency of a natural regeneration approach using a combination of brushing and spot scarification in the cleared strips. Four high-graded stands from the mixedwood zone in Quebec were selected and strips were cleared with a brush saw. Four microsite types created by the scarification were studied: 1-m and 2-m wide pockets, mounds and undisturbed forest floor. The amount of dispersed yellow birch seeds was adequate for two out of the three years of the study. Yellow birch establishment was in phase with seed years and was better on disturbed microsites. Best establishment was observed in seed spots and light conditions in these microsites after three years were better than on mounds or undisturbed ground. On the latter two, survival will likely be impaired by the poor light conditions. Seed spots remain receptive three years after scarification. Softwood regeneration was poor due to a lack of seed trees. The study has shown that seed tree abundance remains sufficient for natural regeneration even in these open stands. It also showed a very rapid regrowth of competing vegetation when root systems and seed banks were not removed by site preparation. Key words: yellow birch, Betula alleghaniensis, scarification, diameter-limit cutting, competition
Mise au point d'un tarif de cubage général pour les forêts québécoises : une approche pour mieux évaluer l'incertitude associée aux prévisions
Authors: Fortin Mathieu , DeBlois Josianne , Bernier Sylvain , Blais Georges
Published: February 2014

Merchantable volume assessment is of prime importance in forest management and for the estimation of wood production in Quebec Crown forests. Currently, this assessment is undertaken at the individual stem level according to a statistical model commonly identified as the Perron general stock table. This polynomial model is based on tree diameter at breast height and tree height. However, the mathematical model form and the method used to calibrate it do not enable a correct and detailed assessment of the uncertainty associated with volume assessments. This study describes a new model which, accounts for errors associated with the use of estimated height in volume forecasts and also limits the propogation of errors to sample plot and cruise line. Random effects have been specified in the model in order to take into account spatial correlation between observations made at the sample plot and cruise line level. Results indicate sample plot and cruise line random errors constitute components of model error, which individually range from 2 % to 4 % of volume assessment. Consequently, the basic premise that errors associated with volume assessment of individual stems are compensated by volume summations at the sample plot level is not valid. Key words: mixed model, random effect, error propagation, variance
Analyse financière de scénarios sylvicoles visant la production de bois d’oeuvre de bouleaux jaune et à papier
Authors: Legault Isabelle , Ruel Jean-Claude , Pouliot Jean-Marie , Beauregard Robert
Published: February 2014

A financial profitability analysis is presented for a particular case study in Québec, using forest data coming from a management stratum located in the region of La Tuque, Quebec. Two silvicultural systems adapted to birch (Betula alleghaniensis Britton and Betula papyrifera Marsh.) regeneration and production, one based on shelterwood cutting and the other on patch cutting combined with single tree selection cutting, are compared over a 120-year period. The Sylva II model has been used to simulate stratum and wood products evolution through time. The financial performance of each scenario is described as the internal rate of return and the net present value. The results demonstrate that both treatments can be profitable and that patch clearcutting combined with the single tree selection cutting system is slightly more profitable than the second system evaluated. The sensitivity analysis shows that, from all criteria considered, treatment costs and product value are the most sensitive parameters. The evolution scenario parameter appears to be the less sensitive one. Finally, the product allocation matrix is the most sensitive of all silvicultural parameters. Although results are relevant for this particular case only, the approach can be broadly applied.
A 90-year sea warming trend explains outbreak patterns of western spruce budworm on Vancouver Island
Authors: Thomson Alan J , Benton Ross
Published: February 2014

Three outbreaks of western spruce budworm were recorded on southern Vancouver Island between 1909 and 1930. After 1930, outbreaks were restricted to interior regions of British Columbia. We show that warming winter temperatures on southern Vancouver Island, related to warming sea temperature, promoted earlier larval emergence while the timing of bud flush has remained constant. This differential response to changed climate has resulted in a significant departure from optimal phenological synchronization that would explain the outbreak history. Key words: climate change, phenology, bud flush, Douglas-fir
Elevated mortality of residual trees following structural retention harvesting in boreal mixedwoods
Authors: Bladon Kevin D , Lieffers Victor J , Silins Uldis , Landhäusser Simon M , Blenis Peter V
Published: February 2014

In recent years boreal forests have been harvested to retain a portion of the original canopy, thereby providing forest structure, mostly for biodiversity reasons. Boreal mixedwood cutovers were surveyed at one and five years after harvesting with approximately 10% structural retention, to quantify the mean annual mortality rates of the residual trembling aspen, balsam poplar, paper birch and white spruce trees. For comparison, "natural" mortality rates by species were estimated from permanent sample plots in stands of similar composition. Species ranking of the annual mortality rates of residuals in areas harvested with structural retention were: poplar (10.2%) > birch (8.7%) > aspen (6.1%) > spruce (2.9%). Annual mortality rates were 2.5 to 4 times greater than in the reference stands. The majority of broadleaved species died as snags (~70%–90%), while most spruce died due to windthrow (80%). Mortality rates increased with slenderness coefficient for codominant and understory poplar and for understory birch. For aspen, codominants were most likely to die, while in spruce, dominant trees and trees with the greatest damage to the bole from harvesting operations had the highest mortality. Key words: Alberta, Betula papyrifera, dieback, harvesting damage, mixedwood forests, variable retention, Picea glauca, Populus balsamifera, Populus tremuloides, structural retention, sustainable forest management
Restoring southern Ontario forests by managing succession in conifer plantations
Authors: Parker William C , Elliott Ken A , Dey Daniel C , Boysen Eric
Published: February 2014

Thinning and underplanting of conifer plantations to promote natural succession in southern Ontario's forests for restoration purposes was examined in a young red pine (Pinus resinosa Ait.) plantation. Eleven years after application of five thinning treatments, seedling diameter, height, and stem volume of planted white ash (Fraxinus americana L), red oak, (Quercus rubra L.), and white pine (Pinus strobus L.) were positively correlated with thinning intensity and size of canopy openings. Percent survival did not differ among thinning treatments. Based on growth and survival responses, field performance of white ash and white pine was superior to red oak. Recommendations for restoring conifer plantations to native forest types are provided. Key words: acorn predation, direct seeding, Fraxinus americana, Pinus resinosa, Pinus strobus, plantations, Quercus rubra, red oak, red pine, underplanting, thinning, white ash, white pine
Carbon sequestration as part of the global warming solution – Using software to combine environmental stewardship with economic benefit
Authors: St. Jean Conti Donna
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of what carbon sequestration is, how forests are used as natural carbon sinks and how selling carbon credits is proving to be a potentially new revenue stream for organizations and other entities managing large tracks of forested area. Finally, this paper will show how Remsoft’s spatial planning and modeling software system enables efficient and effective management of forests as carbon sinks. Key words: carbon sequestration, carbon credits, carbon trading, forestry, forests as carbon sinks, spatial planning and modeling software, Remsoft
Evaluation of a mechanistic approach to mixedwood modelling
Authors: Seely B. , Hawkins C. , Blanco J A , Welham C. , Kimmins J P
Published: February 2014

Mixed conifer–broadleaf forests (mixedwoods), covering more than a third of the productive forest landbase in BC, are highly valuable both as sources of fibre and as areas rich in biodiversity. In recognition of the multiple benefits of this forest type, management paradigms have transitioned from a focus on promoting conifer plantations in mixedwood areas to the management of intimate mixtures. The exceptionally dynamic growth properties and species interactions in mixedwood forests present a challenge for projecting the growth and development of different types of mixedwoods and their response to different silviculture systems. Here we evaluate the ability of a mechanistic forest growth model (FORECAST) to project patterns of stand growth and dynamics in two mixedwood forest types subjected to different silvicultural treatments. Model output is compared against field measurements from long-term silviculture trials in the Sub Boreal Spruce (SBS)—18 years, and Interior Cedar Hemlock (ICH)—10 years, biogeoclimatic zones in British Columbia, Canada. FORECAST was able to reproduce patterns of growth response in both mixedwood forest types with reasonable accuracy. An analysis of the simulated relative impact of light and nutrient competition on growth dynamics and treatment response is provided. Results suggest that competition for both light and nutrients are important factors in the dynamics of these mixedwood forest types and that long-term response data and modelling are required to adequately assess the rotation-length effects of treatments on stand development. The analysis described herein provides a level of confidence for the use of the model as a decision-support tool in these ecosystem types, but more validation work should be conducted across a range of different mixedwood forest types and management interventions as long-term datasets become available. Key words: FORECAST, mixedwood management, model testing, process-based model, resource competition
Wind and snow damage nine years following four harvest treatments in a subalpine fir – Engelmann spruce forest at Sicamous Creek in southern interior British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Vyse Alan , Ferguson Christine , Huggard David J
Published: February 2014

We used transect surveys at a large-scale experimental site at Sicamous Creek, B.C. to measure the effects of five treatments on wind and snow damage in an old subalpine fir – Engelmann spruce forest: 10-ha clearcuts, arrays of 1-ha patch cuts, arrays of 0.1-ha patch cuts, individual-tree selection cuts and uncut controls. We also examined edge effects and conditions predisposing trees to damage. Transects were surveyed in 1997, 1999 and 2003 (2.7, 4.7 and 8.7 years postharvest). The increase in wind damage in the four harvested treatments compared to the uncut controls observed after 2.7 years was no longer evident following a snow damage event in the winter of 1998–1999, which was most severe in the uncut controls and leave strips. The damage recorded from this event was predominantly stem snapping rather than uprooting. Subsequent damage was low in all treatments, returning to the level first recorded in the uncut controls. Overall, after 8.7 years, the treatment differences were not statistically significant but the lowest average rates of damage were observed in the 0.1-ha patch cut arrays. The highest damage rates overall were observed within 10 m of the N and E edges of the 10-ha clearcuts. Damage rates in Engelmann spruce continued to be lower than rates for subalpine fir. Stem snapping, caused by some combination of snow loading and wind, is an underreported but widespread disturbance in these stands. Key words: ESSF forest, wind damage, snow damage, snapping, uprooting, subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa [Hook] Nutt.), Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii Parry ex Engelm.), silvicultural systems, Sicamous Creek
Management of New Brunswick's Crown forest during the twentieth century
Authors: Holloway Nancy , Jordan Glen A , Smith Burtt M
Published: February 2014

A condensed history of forestry and forest management in New Brunswick's Crown Forest during the 20th century is presented. It begins with a description of the advanced state of forest management in New Brunswick today. The description provides a sharp contrast to the subsequent detailing of forestry operations, and lack of forest management, that characterized the early decades of the 20th century. A gradual improvement followed, as professional forestry education and technology combined to elevate forestry practice. Next examined is forestry practice and its change across several distinct periods: the inter-wars period (1914–1938), WWII and aftermath (1939–1957), two decades of profound change (1958–1980), and the modern era (1981–2005). It is concluded that a few key events and individuals explain the gradual evolution of forestry in New Brunswick from controlled exploitation to sustainable management. Also suggested is that the Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Management at the University of New Brunswick must continue to attract the brightest and best to its forestry programmes, if New Brunswick is to maintain its leadership position in management of public forests. Key words: forest management, history, Province of New Brunswick, technological advances, forestry practice, key personnel, Crown Lands and Forests Act
Teaching and research in forest ecology at UNB, 1942 to present
Authors: Roberts Mark R
Published: February 2014

The purposes of this paper are to review the history of forest ecology courses at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) in relation to the social context, summarize recent developments in forest ecology research at UNB, and identify critical areas for future research. Based on the UNB Undergraduate Calendar (1942 to present), the first forest ecology course was offered in 1957. Until the 1980s, forest ecology courses were generally related to silviculture and forest production. Since then, courses reflected increasing public concern with biodiversity and sustainable forest management. Research in the Forest Ecology Laboratory at UNB has emphasized forest ecosystem response to disturbance, including tree regeneration and herbaceous-layer recovery following silvicultural treatments. From this work, a disturbance severity model was developed for characterizing any kind of disturbance. Future research is needed to test the model across additional disturbance types, particularly new silvicultural treatments that are being used in forest ecosystem management. Key words: teaching, forest ecology, research, disturbance, herbaceous layer, biodiversity, sustainable forest management, ecosystem management
Bird research in the ACWERN lab at the Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Management, University of New Brunswick
Authors: Diamond Antony W
Published: February 2014

Research on forest bird ecology in the ACWERN (Atlantic Cooperative Wildlife Ecology Research Network) lab at the University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, since 1995 has focused on assessing the relative contributions of habitat quality at large (“landscape”) and small (“local” or “stand”) spatial scales. To do so we had to develop methods for assessing key demographic components of fitness (productivity and survival) at large spatial scales. The large extent of forest cover in the Maritimes contrasts with regions where such work has traditionally been carried out, in which forest is clearly fragmented by agriculture or residential development. Our main findings are that spatial effects in highly forested landscapes can often be detected only by using species-specific habitat models, rather than broader categories such as “mature” or “softwood”, that Blackburnian Warblers (Dendroica fusca) are effective indicators of mixedwood forest but define it differently than forest managers do, and that cavity nesters (e.g., woodpeckers) may require different habitat components for nesting and feeding and so cannot be managed for solely on the basis of providing snags for nesting. Our focus has shifted recently to intensive studies on a species at risk, Bicknell's Thrush (Catharus bicknelli), which in New Brunswick breeds in man-made regenerating softwood forest stands, and assessing its response both to precommercial thinning of the breeding habitat and to effects carrying over from the winter habitat in the Caribbean. Key words: landscape effects, thresholds, survival, productivity, fitness, carry-over, habitat, fragmentation
Sensitivity of management planning model outcomes to yield curve inputs
Authors: McGarrigle Elizabeth , Richards Evelyn W , Kershaw Jr. John A , Erdle Thom A
Published: February 2014

We investigated calendar- and age-based average yield curves used in management planning for Crown lands in New Brunswick. These yield curves are derived from the same data and growth models, but are averaged differently. We found that even-flow and non-declining harvest volumes generated by strategic planning models are sensitive to the yield curve type used as input. Strategic harvest volumes per five-year period varied as much as 30% when yield curve type used was changed. Key to this change was the coarsely aggregated stratification required by calendar-based yield curves. Level of aggregation affected whether model constraints could be met, and changed model outputs. Key words: strategic management planning, yield curves
Developing a silvicultural framework and definitions for use in forest management planning and practice
Authors: Bell F Wayne , Parton John , Stocker Neil , Joyce Dennis , Reid Doug , Wester Monique , Stinson Al , Kayahara Gordon , Towill Bill
Published: February 2014

Lack of a management framework on which to base silviculture options has plagued the forest management planning process in Ontario. The Forest Management Planning Manual for Ontario’s Crown Forests directs that strategic silvicultural options be developed and identified in terms of the (i) applicable forest unit, (ii) associated assumptions, and (iii) extent to which they can be used on a forest management unit. In this paper, we describe a framework for classifying management (or silviculture) intensity and propose definitions for extensive, basic, intensive, and elite intensities of silviculture to support the framework’s use in planning and application. We outline how the Canadian Ecology Centre – Forestry Research Partnership, a research partnership between Tembec Inc., the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, and Natural Resources Canada, is considering applying these in the forest management planning process. The framework and definitions can be used to develop strategic silviculture options within an active adaptive management approach. This framework should help to reduce uncertainties associated with forest development, treatment costs, response to treatments, and success rates provided appropriate monitoring. The framework and definitions described were specifically developed for silviculture related to reforestation of even-aged boreal forests. Key words: intensive silviculture, adaptive management, forest management
Validation of empirical yield curves for natural-origin stands in boreal Ontario
Authors: Penner Margaret , Woods Murray , Parton John , Stinson Al
Published: February 2014

In Ontario, yield tables for forest management planning have remained relatively unchanged since initial work in the 1950s that was based on a limited number of temporary sample plots. In 2000, the Forestry Research Partnership accelerated work on the Benchmark Yield Curve Project (initiated several years earlier by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, OMNR) to update these tables. The resulting yield curves incorporated data from more than 3000 permanent sample plots (PSPs) maintained in Ontario as well as PSPs from neighbouring and ecologically similar jurisdictions. Two stratifications were considered: OMNR’s Northeast Region standard forest units and leading species. The 10 forest units considered cover the major commercial species in the boreal forest in Ontario. Equations were fit to the data to predict the growth and yield by stratum. The equations were validated against independently collected data and compared to predictions from the current wood supply yield curves in Ontario: Plonski’s yield tables, modified Plonski, and northeast regional curves. Results of the validation showed that, with the exception of the MW2 and SF1 forest units, the new yield curves generally had less bias for gross total volume than Plonski and modified Plonski. Results for net merchantable volume were consistent with those for gross merchantable volume. The MW2 and SF1 forest units are more mixed in terms of species type, species light tolerance, and age. A leading species approach resulted in better predictions and is recommended for these forest units. Key words: wood supply, benchmark yield curves, mixedwood yield, yield model, Forestry Research Partnership
LiDAR and Weibull modeling of diameter and basal area
Authors: Thomas V. , Oliver R D , Lim K. , Woods M.
Published: February 2014

This study investigates the ability to predict forest diameter distributions from light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data using Weibull modelling for forest stands in central Ontario. Results suggest that the unimodal 2-parameter Weibull model is a promising technique for the prediction of diameter class distributions, with strong relationships evident for several subgroups (at 95% confidence, r2adj=0.83, 0.78, 0.88, 0.80, 0.83, and 0.65, with validation RMSE of 4.09 m2/ha, 0.61 stems/ha, 6.05, 0.64, 4.73, and 0.09 for basal area, stem density, and the Weibull a and b parameters for basal area and stem density, respectively). The unimodal models were found to be least effective for the irregularly shaped diameter distributions, particularly for low-density coniferous plots that have undergone shelterwood treatment. A significant improvement in results for these irregular plots was found with a finite mixture modelling approach, suggesting that finite mixture models may extend our ability to predict diameter distributions over large portions of the landscape. Key words: LiDAR, Weibull, finite mixture modeling, diameter class distributions, multiple linear regression
Challenges for the operational detection of mountain pine beetle green attack with remote sensing
Authors: Wulder Michael A , White Joanne C , Carroll Allan L , Coops Nicholas C
Published: February 2014

Mountain pine beetle infestations are spatially correlated; current (green) attack is often located near previous (red) attack. This spatial correlation between the green and red attack stages enables operational survey methods, as detection of red attack trees—typically from an airborne survey such as a helicopter GPS survey or aerial photography—guides the location of subsequent ground surveys for green attack trees. Forest managers, in an attempt to understand beetle movement and infestation patterns, hope to utilize remotely sensed data to detect and map green attack trees, with the expectation that the spatial extent, accuracy, and timeliness afforded by remotely sensed data will greatly improve the efficacy of beetle treatment and control. In this communication, we present the biological, logistical, and technological factors that limit the operational utility of remotely sensed data for green attack detection and mapping. To provide context for these limitations, we identify the operational information needs associated with green attack and discuss how these requirements dictate the characteristics of any potential remotely sensed data source (e.g., spatial, spectral, and temporal characteristics). Based upon our assessment, we conclude that the remote detection of green attack is not operationally viable, and is unlikely to become so unless the limiting factors we have identified are altered substantially or removed. Key words: green attack, remote sensing, operational, insect survey, high spatial resolution, high spectral resolution
Bird monitoring programs in Ontario: What have we got and what do we need?
Authors: Francis Charles M , Blancher Peter J , Phoenix R. Dean
Published: February 2014

Bird population monitoring should be designed to enhance conservation of birds through informing policy decisions and management actions. Many different bird surveys are undertaken in Ontario ranging from province-wide multi-species programs such as the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas to single-species localized surveys for Species at Risk. Although most surveys provide some useful contributions towards understanding the status of bird populations, there remain significant gaps in both species and geographic coverages, especially in the northern half of the province, and few surveys are sufficient for evaluating the specific effects of current management practices on birds. Enhancing bird monitoring in the province should first involve clearly defining, quantitatively, the information required for management, conservation and decision-making, in the context of an adaptive management cycle, and then identifying the most cost-effective monitoring programs to obtain that information. This can most effectively be implemented through a cooperative effort involving all parties with an interest in bird monitoring data including federal and provincial government agencies, environmental non-government organizations, and industry. Key words: bird population monitoring, evaluation, adaptive management, decision-making