bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing an online database of descriptions of ectomycorrhizae
Authors: Trofymow J. A. , Goodman D. M. , Thomson A. J.
Published: November 2022

Ectomycorrhizae are the mutually beneficial symbioses of fungi and fine roots, and are responsible for the uptake of nutrients that support tree growth. Many species of fungi form ectomycorrhizae with conifers; most are Basidiomycetes or Ascomycetes that form large mushrooms found in forests. It is, therefore, important to investigate how forest management practices affect the health, growth patterns, physiological function, and taxonomic diversity of ectomycorrhizae. Identification of ectomycorrhizae is fundamental to such research. To date, several hundred detailed descriptions of ectomycorrhizae have been published in books, journal articles, and on a compact disk database called DEEMY (DEtermination of EctoMYcorrhizae), but hundreds more are unavailable in researchers� private databases. The Database of Descriptions of Ectomycorrhizae (DDE) web site aims to be a comprehensive tool for the identification of ectomycorrhizae by bringing together as many published and unpublished descriptions as possible. A search function, available to all users, has been programmed to act as an electronic synoptic key. The DDE system also allows qualified researchers to add their unpublished descriptions to the database, and to update these descriptions as needed. The DDE database currently contains 338 descriptions; 318 from DEEMY and 20 from A Manual of Concise Descriptions of Ectomycorrhizae (CDE). Entry of descriptions and search profiles is done using a web form with all the characters in the CDE checklist and links to the CDE illustrated glossary.
Height growth and site index models for Pacific silver fir in southwestern British Columbia
Authors: Splechtn Bernhard Erich
Published: November 2022

Following an exploratory examination of the variation in the height growth pattern using a singlevalued ratio, conventional polymorphic and climate-specific height growth and site index models were developed for Pacific silver fir (Abies amabilis [Dougl. ex Loud.] Forbes). The models were developed from stem analysis data obtained from 67 study plots, which were located over the entire elevation-continentality range of the species in southern coastal British Columbia. When tested against an independent data set consisting of 31 plots, the climate-specific models improved height and site index prediction compared to the conventional polymorphic models. The previously available model for Pacific silver fir was biased. It overestimated height before, and underestimated it beyond, the index age. It also underestimated height on low-productivity sites and overestimated it on high-productivity sites. In consequence, when this model was used to estimate site index from top-height and breast-height age, it underestimated site index before, and overestimated it beyond, the index age. Similarly, site index was overestimated on low-productivity sites and underestimated on high-productivity sites. The climate-specific models developed in this study are recommended for height and site index estimation of Pacific silver fir stands within a range of breast-height age from 15 to 160 years in southern coastal British Columbia.
New on-line journal takes an ecosystems approach
Authors: White William A.
Published: November 2022

The principal objectives of this study were to chronicle the hybrid approach to data collection adopted to formulate a regional economic overview of the Robson Valley Forest District (RVFD), and to summarize a suite of baseline economic indicators relevant to the forestry, visitor, public, and agriculture sectors in the RVFD region. Secondary data collection was augmented with primary data collected through formal and informal survey techniques. Data were collected for traditional economic indicators, such as gross revenue, employment, and income. The forestry sector is the largest contributor to the regional economy. It provides the highest estimates of average annual wage (ranging from $46 975 to $64 007), number of employment positions (574 jobs including full-time and part-time or seasonal positions), and total revenue ($74.1 million). The visitor sector, the second largest contributor, generates $18.1 million in revenues and 514 employment positions; however, the estimated average annual wage ($20 956) is the second lowest. The average annual wage in the public sector is the second highest at $25 669, with 350 employment positions existing in this sector. The agriculture sector is the smallest contributor, providing the lowest average annual wage ($19 145, or $17 420 inflated to 2001 dollars) and total revenue ($4.6 million). Despite the relatively lower contribution to the economy, the total number of farms has remained relatively stable.A comprehensive understanding of the mechanics of an economy facilitates decision making. This report provides a methodology for small region data collection and the resulting baseline informationnecessary for future assessment of responses within the economy to internal and external changes.
Relationships between stand parameters and understorey light in boreal aspen stands
Authors: Comeau Philip G.
Published: November 2022

Data from six aspen stands in northeastern British Columbia ranging in age from 12 to 40 years were used to examine relationships between understorey light levels and stand attributes (basal area, stand density, and age). Sample points were selected in each stand to characterize the observed range in tree density and size. Fractional transmittance of light (DIFN) was measured at each sample point using a LAI-2000 Plant Canopy Analyzer and a circular plot 3.99 m or 5.64 m in radius was established for density and basal area determination.Results indicated that data from the six stands could be pooled into a single model describing the relationship between understorey light and basal area. Light levels below 40% are found when basal area of aspen in these stands exceeds 14 m2/ha and light levels below 60% are found when basal area of aspen exceeds 8 m2/ha. The potential implications of these light levels to growth of understorey spruce are discussed.A diagrammatic representation of light-density–diameter relationships is presented that could provide a useful tool for management decisions in young mixedwood stands in northeastern British Columbia.
Natural resource information needs of Aboriginal communities in the Southern Interior of British Columbia
Authors: Michel Henry , Dickie Angus , Hollstedt Chris
Published: November 2022

This paper describes the First Nations Community Needs Analysis Process that FORREX–Forest Research Extension Partnership (formerly SIFERP, the Southern Interior Forest Extension and Research Partnership) undertook in 1999/2000 to identify and analyze the land and natural resource management information needs of the First Nations' communities in the Southern Interior of British Columbia. It also responds to the outcomes of the information needs assessment by presenting a “Framework for Action,” part of which includes establishing the Partnership's Aboriginal Forestry Extension Program.Based on the results of the information needs assessment, First Nations' communities in the Southern Interior of British Columbia clearly have a need and a desire to participate in forestry extension services. The information needs assessment also revealed and expanded on several issues that must be considered in the provision of extension services to First Nations' communities.With incentive from its Aboriginal partners, FORREX has taken a leadership role in providing extension services and has undertaken the responsibility of working with its Aboriginal partners to identify the information and research needs in their communities. The needs analysis process has also provided direction for including traditional ecological knowledge in natural resources management and policy development.
Wildlife and habitat inventory for a results-based Forest Practices Code
Authors: Pendergast Bruce
Published: November 2022

Two significant changes are occurring within the forest industry in British Columbia, both of which will necessitate a greater reliance on species and habitat monitoring and inventories. First, as British Columbia moves towards adopting the “New Era” principles of the provincial government, the Forest Practices Code will change from regulatory-based to “results-based.” This means that forest companies will have to be monitored to ensure they meet the desired results outlined by the provincial government. Second, market pressures increasingly demand that forest companies be certified as “sustainable” under one of several certification schemes. All certification regimes require that companies be monitored to ensure biodiversity objectives within their sustainable forest management (SFM) plans are achieved. To meet these monitoring requirements, forest companies and the provincial government will need representative, feasible, reliable, and applicable indicators of wildlife and habitat values. Fortunately, British Columbia has several species and habitat inventories that can be used to develop indicators for both certification regimes and the results-based code implementation.This paper reviews the available inventories in British Columbia and provides an overview of the usefulness of these inventories for monitoring within SFM planning and the results-based code. In general, criteria and indicators developed from the province�s habitat inventories can be used immediately to monitor forest management practices; however, these habitat inventories need refined species-habitat models to be most useful. Although direct monitoring of wildlife is important for rare and endangered species and to determine the effects of forest management practices, species inventories are generally less useful for this purpose. Recommendations are provided to ensure the usefulness of inventories in monitoring compliance with the results-based code and meeting the needs of SFM planning.
Using forest structural diversity to inventory habitat diversity of forest-dwelling wildlife in the West Kootenay region of British Columbia
Authors: McCleary Kris , Mowat Garth
Published: November 2022

Forest planners in British Columbia are being asked to consider wildlife species diversity in forest development plans. Forest ecosystem inventories currently used in British Columbia are inappropriate or inadequate as tools for land management planning because they only document forest composition (Vegetation Resources Inventory) or identify plant communities (Terrestrial Ecosystem Mapping). To assist in the effort to obtain information about a site's potential forest-dwelling wildlife species diversity, we developed a method of using forest structure to identify and evaluate habitat quality for multiple species of vertebrates. Using aerial photos, we delineated six classes of forest structure that have been identified by other researchers as important wildlife habitats. We selected five structural attributes of forest stands—vertical structure (canopy complexity), horizontal structure (forest patchiness), coarse woody debris density, litter and duff layer depth, and tree size—to be measured in the field, and we applied the method in three study areas in southeastern British Columbia. We compared abundance of structural features between structural classes to determine whether the classes were indeed unique. Old forests were found to be more structurally complex than younger forests, and forested and riparian sites were more structurally complex than non-forested and upland sites. We then used this data to index structural diversity within a study area to allow stands to be compared. We suggest that our method can be used by biologists and land managers to guide the conservation of forest-dwelling wildlife species.
Establishment of the Creston Log Sort Yard: Case Study
Authors: Sunderman Randy
Published: November 2022

In British Columbia, forest-dependent communities have identified log sort yards as one means of diversifying and bolstering the viability of smaller wood-manufacturing businesses, and of bridging the gap between wood suppliers and wood users. In southeastern British Columbia, community stakeholders formed the Creston log sort yard in 1999, and operated the yard until it was privatized in 2002. This case study summarizes Creston's experience by discussing conditions that contributed to the formation, growth, and eventual privatization of the log sort yard. The author presents insights on the viability of such a venture for the benefit of other communities that may be interested in establishing a log sort yard as a strategy for improving the local forestry economy.
Lessons Learned from the Quesnel Hardwood Co-operative: Case Study
Authors: Hilbert Steve
Published: November 2022

A group of independent small businesses in the area of Quesnel, British Columbia—including logging contractors, sawmillers, and forest industry members—formed the Quesnel Hardwood Co-operative in 1999. The Co-operative's objectives were to utilize the region's neglected birch hardwood resource to create and sustain jobs in the forest industry, provide work for under-employed local people, and help stabilize the area's economy.On behalf of its members, the Quesnel Hardwood Co-operative integrated wood supply and sales to create a larger forest enterprise, thereby making members' products more competitive in the marketplace. The Quesnel Hardwood Co-operative developed an action plan to add value to the hardwood lumber by doing more local processing.While not ultimately successful, the Quesnel Hardwood Co-operative did stimulate individual members to develop or expand businesses, and it stimulated the valuation and utlization of birch. Small birch mills are now operating throughout the region, and birch is being utilized more than it was prior to the formation of the Co-operative.
Stand Establishment Decision Aid for nutrient-deficient, salal-dominated sites (Coastal Western Hemlock Biogeoclimatic Zone)
Authors: Blevins Leandra L. , Van Niejenhuis Annette
Published: November 2022

This Stand Establishment Decision Aid (SEDA) for the Coastal Western Hemlock (CWH) biogeoclimatic zone is the first SEDA for the coastal region. We have focused on site series that have been studied since the early 1980s as part of the Salal Cedar Hemlock Integrated Research Program (SCHIRP). The objectives of this program are: to determine the underlying causes of poor growth of regenerating western redcedar (Thuja plicata Donn.), western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla [Raf. Sarg.]), amabilis fir (Abies amabilis Dougl.), and Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis [Bong.] Carr.) on cutovers of old-growth cedar-hemlock forests invaded by salal (Gaultheria shallon Pursh) on the west coast of North America; and to establish the best operational means for improving productivity on these sites.The first section of this SEDA describes identifying characteristics of sites that will likely develop nutrient deficiencies. This is followed by some general information about harvesting and the goals of silvicultural treatment. The third section identifies site series that are likely to require treatment to improve conifer growth and nutrition. The fourth section outlines some possible silvicultural considerations to attain treatment goals. These include site preparation, planting and fertilization, and stand tending. Sites in the CWH often have important values for First Nations groups and for non-timber forest products. These values are described in the fifth section so that they may be considered in any management plan. Finally, we list some additional sources of information about these sites and their management.
Back to the future: Surviving the pace of change
Authors: Morford Shawn
Published: November 2022

My father spent his career as a social science instructor at a rural community college in Michigan, where he is a locally recognized orator on the subject of society, culture, and the future. As a growing student, I was often enlisted in dinner table trivia quizzes that included inquiries, such as “what percentage of the Gross National Product do you think the U.S. grants in foreign aid?” (a mere one-tenth of 1%, he would instruct, rendering my guess at least 1000% too high), and where—on an imaginary chronological continuum that stretched the table length—I thought humans appeared on the planet? (I was typically about two feet off the mark). I clearly recollect his lecture notes on the book reviews ofAlvin Toffler’s Future Shock (1970), which described many cultural and societal changes that we could expect in the next 20 years. My father’s lectures forecasted our life at the turn of the century with astonishing accuracy.
An analysis of escaped fires from broadcast burning in the Prince George Forest Region of British Columbia
Authors: Lepine Frank , Opio Christopher , Ayers Dieter
Published: November 2022

Prescribed fire is an important silvicultural tool. Several factors, including changes in silvicultural techniques, regulations regarding the use of prescribed fire, air quality concerns, and concerns over escaped fires have led to a declining use of prescribed fire for silvicultural purposes in British Columbia. Using records from 351 prescribed fires that escaped control measures in the Prince George Forest Region, we examined the feasibility of using “Control Rank” from Muraro's Prescribed Fire Predictor model as an indicator of the risk of fires escaping from broadcast burning, and estimated the costs of suppressing these fires. We also outline the benefits (including potential dangers) of prescribed burning, and provide recommendations on how to estimate the probability, or the risk, of a fire escaping from a prescribed burn. We found that 84.3% of the escaped fires occurred within control ranks 5 and 6, and control ranks 7 and 8. These control ranks also had the largest and most costly fires to suppress, in some cases running in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Our results suggest that control rank is a useful indicator of risk. However, we recommend that better records of burning conditions of all prescribed burns be kept to allow for more complete analyses of risk in the future. To reduce the risk of fires escaping from prescribed burning, factors that should be carefully considered are also outlined in this paper.
Snow depth as a function of canopy cover and other site attributes in a forested ungulate winter range in southeast British Columbia
Authors: D'Eon Robert G.
Published: November 2022

Snow depth is considered a major influence on deer (Odocoileus spp.) winter distribution and abundance in northern parts of their range. Overstorey canopy cover is often considered a principal variable governing snow depths in forests and has implications for managers who wish to achieve reduced snow depths by manipulating canopy closure in forests. I used three years of snow-depth data collected in forested ungulate winter range in southeast British Columbia to determine the relative influence of canopy closure and other site attributes on snow depth. Although canopy closure was a major factor in determining snow depth, it was outweighed by elevation and aspect. I found a close relationship between canopy closure and snow depth at low-elevation sites, but this relationship diminished or disappeared at higher elevations and on cooler aspects supporting the hypothesis that the influence of canopy closure depends on overall snow accumulation. At low elevations, forest managers could use canopy closure to influence snow depths. I offer the generalization that, on similar sites, maintaining 50% canopy closure will reduce snow depths by approximately 20%; 100% canopy closure will reduce snow depths by up to 40%.
Evolving ecosystem management in the context of British Columbia resource planning
Authors: Mabee Warren E. , Fraser Evan D.G. , Slaymaker Olav
Published: November 2022

Ecosystem management is an approach to natural resource planning that theoretically places environmental issues on an equal footing with the economic concerns that dominate resource use. This approach recognizes the importance of both a healthy environment and access to natural resources. Each of these factors is an implicit element of human security, a political concept that promotes the protection of human lives and livelihoods. Ecosystem management acknowledges the role of humans as an integral part of the ecosystem; however, it does not define the ways in which humans and the ecosystem interact. This lack of definition makes the practical application of ecosystem management difficult.In this paper, we examine the application of ecosystem management principles in British Columbia's Clayoquot Sound. We propose that human security can act as an imperative for the expanded consideration of social networks and environmental pathways in the practice of ecosystem management. Theories from the social and natural sciences are supplied to support the science-based application of ecosystem management. These underpinnings enable managers to better define ecosystem boundaries and to integrate expanded social networks into management plans.
Moving along the community - researcher continuum towards participatory research in British Columbia
Authors: Morford Shawn
Published: November 2022

With initiatives such as forest certification, innovative forest practices agreements, model forests, and community forest pilots, gathering data on social and economic factors relating to natural resource management is likely to be a growing area of social science research in British Columbia. This paper examines expert-driven versus community-driven participatory approaches to social science research. A hypothetical continuum of community involvement and power in the research process is presented that helps to distinguish between these research approaches. Arnstein's ladder of citizen participation also provides a useful guide to discussions about the desired level of community involvement in research. The challenges posed by increasing citizen participation in community research are examined, as is the potential of community-driven methods of social science research in British Columbia.
A knowledge exchange system: Putting innovation to work
Authors: DeYoe David , Hollstedt Chris
Published: November 2022

Effective and efficient application of new knowledge and technology in Canada's forest sector continues to challenge both government and industry. This impedes the development of government policy and advancement in private sector diversification and productivity growth. This paper outlines a knowledge exchange system by which researchers and customers in government and industry can achieve desired business outcomes through the optimal development and application of innovative approaches. The system integrates three major functions-knowledge generation, knowledge exchange, and knowledge application. The importance of extension professionals is highlighted as a critical link in helping to ensure that new knowledge and innovative technologies are put into practice. Nine knowledge system elements are introduced and the role of each in bridging the research-to-operations gap is described.
Science and innovation critical in shaping British Columbia's future forest legacy
Authors: Pedersen Larry
Published: November 2022

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Winter distribution and abundance of mountain caribou in relation to habitat management zones in the Robson Valley: Project report
Authors: Selp Dale
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this project was to determine the winter distribution and abundance of mountain caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) in the Robson Valley Forest District in relation to management zones established to protect their habitat. A caribou census was undertaken by aerial surveys in March of 2000, 2001, and 2002. In each of the three years, 24 caribou were counted; however, the number of caribou using different parts of the District varied among years. The Robson Valley was not a core area for mountain caribou, but appeared to provide peripheral habitat that was used in some winters by caribou from herds that were more abundant outside the District boundary. This project report provides recommendations to refine the boundaries of some caribou habitat management zones and highlights the need to delineate a new zone in the Camp Creek area.
Goat River bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) biotelemetry and spawning assessments 2002-03
Authors: Pillipow Ray , Williamson Cory
Published: November 2022

In 2002, the British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection radio-tagged and tracked 16 sexually mature bull trout in the Goat River to determine the river's status as a bull trout spawning system, to identify and rank important spawning areas for habitat protection considerations, and to develop index sites to monitor population trends.Five tagged bull trout spawned in the Upper Goat River, eight spawned in Macleod Creek, one remained near Northstar Creek, and two moved downstream after tagging. Goat River bull trout travelled up to 500 km to and from spawning areas, highlighting the importance of the Goat River as a bull trout spawning stream. Ground-based redd (gravel nest) surveys undertaken in 2003 resulted in 73 (4.3 redds per kilometre) and 90 (9.0 redds per kilometre) redds for Upper Goat River and Macleod Creek, respectively. In 2003, the Goat River bull trout spawning population was estimated at approximately 326. The high-quality spawning habitat, water quality, and bull trout detection qualities of the Upper Goat River watershed provide ideal index sites for monitoring population trends in the upper Fraser River drainage. Proposed measures aimed at protecting important spawning habitat include “wildlife habitat area” (WHA) designations and adaptive resource management strategies involving stakeholder participation. Effective April 1, 2004, seasonal angling closures at spawning areas will serve to protect spawning bull trout. Future management direction will involve site monitoring and meta-population analysis.
Identifying indicators of community sustainability in the Robson Valley, British Columbia
Authors: Parkins John R. , Varghese Jeji , Stedman Richard C.
Published: November 2022

This paper outlines a method of developing indicators of well-being in small, forest-based communities. It also describes some specific measures of well-being in a particular forest-based community in the Robson Valley Forest District, British Columbia. In this project, we attempted to strike a balance between relying on locally obtained information—collected through workshops, interviews, and a mail survey—and information obtained from the social science literature. We took a broad-based approach toward indicator development by identifying goals and indicators pertaining to the entire region. Our paper explores this theoretical orientation in some detail and then provides an account of the dialogical methods used to identify community-based indicators. Of the six community goals we identified, we discuss “maintaining community capacity” at length by examining the empirical data from five indicators and then drawing some conclusions about the status of community capacity in the Robson Valley.
Economic overview of the Robson Valley Forest District
Authors: Moon Amanda , Patriquin Mike , White William A. , Spence Michelle
Published: November 2022

The principal objectives of this study were to chronicle the hybrid approach to data collection adopted to formulate a regional economic overview of the Robson Valley Forest District (RVFD), and to summarize a suite of baseline economic indicators relevant to the forestry, visitor, public, and agriculture sectors in the RVFD region. Secondary data collection was augmented with primary data collected through formal and informal survey techniques. Data were collected for traditional economic indicators, such as gross revenue, employment, and income.The forestry sector is the largest contributor to the regional economy. It provides the highest estimates of average annual wage (ranging from $46,975 to $64,007), number of employment positions (574 jobs including full-time and part-time or seasonal positions), and total revenue ($74.1 million). The visitor sector, the second largest contributor, generates $18.1 million in revenues and 514 employment positions; however, the estimated average annual wage ($20,956) is the second lowest. The average annual wage in the public sector is the second highest at $25,669, with 350 employment positions existing in this sector. The agriculture sector is the smallest contributor, providing the lowest average annual wage ($19,145, or $17,420 inflated to 2001 dollars) and total revenue ($4.6 million). Despite the relatively lower contribution to the economy, the total number of farms has remained relatively stable.A comprehensive understanding of the mechanics of an economy facilitates decision making. This report provides a methodology for small region data collection and the resulting baseline information necessary for future assessment of responses within the economy to internal and external changes.
Assessing the relative quality of old-growth forest: An example from the Robson Valley, British Columbia
Authors: DeLong S. Craig , Burton Philip J. , Harrison Michelle
Published: November 2022

Forest planners in British Columbia are required to identify forests suitable for designation as Old-Growth Management Areas. However, the tools currently in use lack the ability to identify appropriate stands. In 2000, we examined the ecological attributes of older forest in the Robson Valley Forest District in eastcentral British Columbia. The purpose was to determine the old-growth habitat value of stands of different age classes and to develop field procedures for assessing the relative old-growth quality of stands. We examined the relationships between stand age (both photo-interpreted and field-estimated) and attributes normally associated with old forest; in particular, we evaluated the relationship between stand age and functionally important tree and coarse woody debris configurations. Results from a representative portion of our study identified several attributes that were generally more abundant in older stands. The results also demonstrated that stands less than 140 years old have poorly developed old-forest habitat attributes, whereas these attributes are consistently well developed in stands greater than 140 years old. Also, the significance of these same attributes increases only slightly with increasing stand age. We created a rank scoring system to help forestry practitioners assess old-forest stands—particularly in the Interior Cedar-Hemlock (ICH) biogeoclimatic zone—in terms of their value as old-growth wildlife habitat.
A biologist's perspective on amalgamating traditional environmental knowledge and resource management
Authors: Hawley Alex W.H. , Sherry Erin E. , Johnson Chris J.
Published: November 2022

Recent transitions in resource management and recognition of the role of First Nations in resource management have heightened the need for conciliation of these two different views of the world and the place of people in it (world view). Efforts to amalgamate these diverse perspectives in resource management are impeded by a legacy of cultural imperialism and difficulties in understanding and accommodating differences in world views, including the place of resource management in society, the meanings and implications of incongruent language, the management of people and resources, and the characteristics of information and knowledge. We examine the consequences of each of these to the establishment of a unified management system that emphasizes points of commonality and is based on respect and communication.
Computer-based visualization of forest management: A primer for resource managers, communities, and educators
Authors: Lewis John L. , Sheppard R. J. , Sutherland Karyn
Published: November 2022

Landscape visualizations are pictures of real places seen in perspective that show visible or non-visible features or recognizable landscapes in the future, the present, or the past. This paper is intended to provide an introduction to landscape visualization technology for rural communities, planning professionals, and educators who are interested in, but are generally unfamiliar with, the use of visualization in environmental planning and management. In non-technical terms, we describe what landscape visualization is and how visualization datasets are assembled. We also provide examples of how landscape visualizations can be used in resource management, predictive ecosystem modelling and community consultation.
Aspen regeneration, forage production, and soil compaction on harvested and grazed boreal aspen stands
Authors: Krzic Maja , Page Hillary , Newman Reg , Broersma Klaas
Published: November 2022

The objective of our study was to determine the effects of timber harvesting and cattle grazing on aspen regeneration, forage production, and soil compaction on aspen cutblocks in the Peace River region of British Columbia. This project was carried out on a long-term study site established 5 km south of Dawson Creek, B.C. Samples were collected and vegetation was assessed during the summer of 2002. Summer and winter harvesting significantly increased aspen stem density relative to unharvested plots, whereas 4 years of cattle grazing had no significant impact on stem density. Inter-tree spacing remained above the postulated minimum of 60-80 cm, indicating that livestock can access the stand. Timber harvesting increased forage production by 69%, while grazing had no effect on forage production. Soil penetration resistance was similar for three harvesting treatments down to a 21 cm depth, while between 21 and 60 cm penetration resistance was consistently the highest on summer-harvested plots, followed by winter-harvested and unharvested plots. Grazing had no impact on soil penetration resistance. The results of this study support the view that cattle grazing and aspen harvesting are complementary land uses for aspen cutblocks on similar sites in the Peace River region; however, proper planning is required to avoid potential cattle distribution problems.
Effects of post-harvest treatments on high-elevation forests in the North Cascade Range, Washington
Authors: Elman Ella , Peterson David L.
Published: November 2022

We studied the effects of post-harvest treatments on regeneration and forest composition 13–27 years following harvest in high-elevation forests of the North Cascade Range, Washington. Eighteen sites encompassing three common post-harvest treatments were examined at elevations ranging from 830 m to 1460 m. Treatments included: (1) sites broadcast burned and planted with Abies amabilis or Abies procera; (2) unburned sites seeded with A. amabilis or A. procera; and (3) unburned sites mostly planted with A. amabilis. Overstorey and understorey species composition was determined and compared to agency records of mature forest stands in the area. Burned-planted sites contained a smaller proportion of A. amabilis than unburned sites. Burned sites also contained less advance regeneration than unburned sites. Two understorey vegetation communities were segregated by elevation—an Epilobium angustifolium—Rubus spp. community dominated lower-elevation sites, and a Vaccinium spp. community dominated higher-elevation sites. To date, widespread planting and seeding of A. amabilis have not had significant effects on overstorey species composition, although future stand composition is difficult to predict. Comparison of understorey composition showed a contrast between shade-tolerant understorey species in mature stands and shade-intolerant pioneer species in clearcut sites. Advance regeneration in these systems may be enhanced by not using fire to treat slash.
Selecting and testing an instrument for surveying stream shade
Authors: Teti Patrick A. , Pike Robin G.
Published: November 2022

We evaluated the suitability of several different instruments for surveying stream shade, selected one as most suitable for our purposes, and tested its accuracy. Five different operators used the instrument to estimate shade as angular canopy density (ACD), canopy density above 60°,, and canopy density above 80° in two plots—one in a mixed-age coniferous stand and one in a mixed-age deciduous stand. We compared operator estimates (ocular method) with measurements from fisheye photographs (computer-fisheye method). In a random coefficients regression model, the effect of “plot” on regression slopes and intercepts was not significant at α = 0.05. The regression line for ACD by the ocular method versus the computerfisheye method had a slope of 0.87 and an intercept of 0.02. The slope was significantly different from 1 at α = 0.05, indicating a tendency for human operators to underestimate ACD. Estimates of mean ACD on the two plots by individual operators were 2–11 percentage points lower, respectively, than mean ACD calculated from fisheye photos and the effect of operator was highly significant (ρ < 0.0001). Operators who received 45 minutes of training performed better than did an operator who received 15 minutes of training. Results suggest that operator variability is a large potential source of error in ocular estimates and that an investment of at least 1 hour of formal training may be worthwhile. The errors associated with any ocular-type canopy density measuring instrument should be documented before it is used to make statistical inferences.
Natural resources and community vitality: A rural perspective
Authors: Pearce Cindy
Published: November 2022

British Columbia is uniquely blessed with a spectacular wealth of ecologically diverse natural resources. Beginning with First Nations societies long ago, these resources have been the foundation for the sense of place, quality of life, and economies of rural communities in the province. These communities, however, now face rapid, unprecedented change linked to natural resources—change which emanates from both global and “made-in-BC” sources. Such change creates challenges and uncertainties, but also presents opportunities. A five-point framework used to assess the fate of societies shows that British Columbia's rural communities will continue to face challenges in areas crucial to their futures. This heightens the need to strengthen community capacity both to anticipate and deal with problems and to seize opportunities. Most rural communities are now committed to taking charge of their futures, and are seeking ways to thrive in this era of change. Although attention paid by science to community sustainability has increased significantly in recent years, much more research is needed. This paper outlines some change-related challenges and opportunities facing rural communities in British Columbia and offers suggestions for important research to help communities build local capacity.
Variable Retention Forestry Science Forum April 21-22, 2004
Authors: Swift et al. Kathie
Published: November 2022

As a result of criticism of past forest management in coastal British Columbia, there was a shift away from the traditional clearcutting system to the retention system. In April 2004, FORREX, in partnership with the Canadian Forest Service, the British Columbia Ministry of Forests, the Forest Engineering and Research Institute of Canada (FERIC), Weyerhaeuser Canada, Madrone Consulting, and Malaspina University–College, hosted a science forum on Variable Retention Forestry. The forum provided an opportunity to discuss the latest findings, issues, and challenges of retention practices. This paper summarizes the important messages from the forum, including the following:• The importance of developing and implementing adaptive management monitoring and evaluation frameworks.• The use of variable retention (VR) as a tool that should be guided by goals and philosophies.• Consideration of the costs of implementing VR.• The importance of understanding disturbance patterns and their impact.• The importance of an awareness of the possible effects on stand development of any insects and diseases.• The importance of an awareness of local site and regional conditions when attempting to predict the outcomes of windthrow damage.• Consideration of public perception of forest management practices.Outstanding issues and questions are also summarized, and a list of resources outlining the latest research findings in the area of variable retention is provided. It is important to invest in monitoring and understanding the biological implications of VR practices while addressing the social issues around forestry on a public land base—the original rationale for the retention system.
Arrow IFPA Series: Note 1 of 8: A framework for sustainable forest management
Authors: Jeakins Paul , Sheppard Stephen R.J. , Bunnell Fred L. , Wells Ralph
Published: November 2022

This extension note is the first in a series of eight that describes a set of tools and processes developed to support sustainable forest management planning and its pilot application in the Arrow Timber Supply Area (TSA). Conducted under the Arrow Innovative Forestry Practices Agreement (IFPA) Sustainability Project, and initiated by an interdisciplinary team of academics and practitioners, the “Sustainable Forest Management Framework” offers a comprehensive approach to forest management planning that is also applicable in other parts of British Columbia. Throughout the planning to monitoring process, it uses criteria and indicators as a means of developing and implementing forest management strategies with clear goals and objectives. In this way, forest practitioners can achieve measurable and effective results for identified forest resource values. The framework also incorporates a hierarchical planning process to address these goals and objectives at various spatial and temporal scales, and is supported by a suite of decision-support tools and procedures, including scenario planning, integrated modelling, public multicriteria analysis, and trade-off analysis. Within this framework, public participation is integrated throughout the planning process.During the life of the IFPA, aspects of this framework were tested in the Arrow TSA and it has been used operationally as part of Canfor?s certification effort. Although this approach has received strong support from academic and management circles and promises to provide an objective approach to sustainable forest management, some features have not yet been implemented. The proposed framework is a work-inprogress that evolves as more components of the framework are tested and outcomes evaluated.
Arrow IFPA Series: Note 5 of 8: Criterion1: Biological richness
Authors: Wells Ralph , Haag Devon , Houde Isabelle , Seely Brad , Bunnell Fred L.
Published: November 2022

This extension note is the fifth in a series of eight that describes a set of tools and processes developed to support sustainable forest management planning and its pilot application in the Arrow Timber Supply Area (TSA). It summarizes the criterion and indicators used to set thresholds and evaluate potential impacts on biological diversity for the sustainable forest management (SFM) pilot basecase analysis for Lemon Landscape Unit. Initial thresholds were developed for some indicators, and measures for others, to assess the SFM basecase harvest scenario. Although this did not represent a comprehensive evaluation, preliminary results indicate that under the SFM basecase scenario, habitat attributes (e.g., snags) associated with late seral stands were met primarily in the non-harvested land base, and may be unsustainable for biodiversity objectives. Retention strategies in the harvested land base are therefore important, but could not be assessed for their potential contribution to late seral attributes because of the lack of available models.This extension note provides both an example of how criteria and indicators can be applied to evaluate SFM scenarios, using indicators to set targets and thresholds, and a framework for evaluation. Some indicators, based on dynamic habitat elements (e.g., snags, downed wood, and understorey vegetation), require models to project these elements across a range of stand types and stand treatments. If these models are to act as effective tools, further development and refinement is required to ensure that they are calibrated and verified with field data. Our understanding of habitat thresholds also needs improvement to better define risks and appropriate management responses.
Arrow IFPA Series: Note 8 of 8: Criterion 9: Quality-of-life indicators
Authors: Meltner Michael J. , Harshaw Howard W. , Sheppard Stephen R.J. , Picard Paul
Published: November 2022

This extension note is the eighth in a series of eight that describes a set of tools and processes developed to support sustainable forest management planning and its pilot application in the Arrow Timber Supply Area (TSA). It summarizes the criterion and indicators used to evaluate quality-of-life opportunities for the sustainable forest management (SFM) pilot basecase analysis of the Lemon Landscape Unit. The management of forests has broadened to include various social values and amenities that were considered during the development of criteria and indicators for the Arrow Innovative Forestry Practices Agreement. The quality-of-life criterion was assessed through indicators that addressed outdoor recreation opportunities and visual quality of the managed landscape. This assessment was informed by public input from area residents and stakeholders. Measurable quality-of-life indicators allowed trade-offs with other resources in the SFM pilot basecase analysis; protection of these quality-of-life values did not overly constrain other values modelled in the project.
Adding Value . . .
Authors: Schooling Julie
Published: November 2022

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Red Alder Stand Establishment Decision Aid
Authors: Thomas Keith , Turner Jennifer
Published: November 2022

Red alder (Alnus rubra) is a common component of low-elevation Coastal Western Hemlock (CWH) biogeoclimatic zone forests in southwestern British Columbia, and is the most abundant broad-leaved species in coastal British Columbia. It can influence nutrient cycling in the forest and contribute to site nitrogen capital and long-term productivity through the process of symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Red alder is resistant to laminated root rot (Phellinus weirii), and its presence may reduce or ameliorate the disease?s effect on Douglas-fir. It contributes to biodiversity at both the stand and landscape levels. In addition, there are presently strong markets for red alder and it is harvested to produce lumber for remanufacturing into mouldings, furniture, and pallets, as well as chips for pulping. Red alder?s value is in its clear wood, which means management regimes that improve wood quality and shorten rotation age over natural stands will be more profitable.This Stand Establishment Decision Aid (SEDA) is intended as a general aid for managing red alder in British Columbia?s coastal forests. A more complete discussion of red alder management can be found in Peterson et al. (1996). Additional information sources are found in the Resource and Reference list at the end of this document.
A review and synthesis of the effects of unsalvaged mountain-pine-beetle-attacked stands on wildlife and implications for forest management
Authors: Chan-McLeod Ann C. Allaye
Published: November 2022

The mountain pine beetle epidemic has dramatically altered lodgepole pine forests in British Columbia, with potentially profound effects on wildlife and wildlife habitats. Forest managers should understand the nature of these effects so that they can incorporate ecological considerations when managing stands after beetle attack. This paper summarizes the processes by which the mountain pine beetle affect wildlife and wildlife habitats, and the factors that dictate the nature of these effects. Factors that affect the ecological legacy of unharvested, beetle-attacked stands include time since infestation, the type and amount of remaining live vegetation, ecosystem type, and surrounding landscape characteristics.