Each of the 35 national parks were established to preserve a unique natural area for our enjoyment and study. National parks are often confused with National Forests. Old Growth - This term describes forests with trees over 100 years of age. Partial Cut - Method of cutting mature trees, such as shelterwood cut, selection cut, or seed tree cut. The meaning stems from 19th century land reserves wherein areas and resources were set aside for limited or restricted use and development.
Preservation often restricts land to recreation or scientific study.
Preservation may be contrasted to the principle of multiple use which rather intensively develops one or more of an area's resources. Silviculture - A term used to indicate the establishment, development, care, and reproduction of stands of timber. Site - The combination of biotic, climatic, soil, and ecological factors and conditions of an area that produce forests or other vegetation. Slope Position - A particular location on a slope, e.g. upper, middle, or lower slope, ridge top, or bottom land. A specific topographic location.