These methods have a maximum effect on soil compaction, wildlife habitat, and erosion and can be destructive if used improperly. Since pesticides act exclusively by removing various living things, it is appropriate to consider the general way in which the entire forest responds when a pesticide is used on a particular target species. Although the target species may be the only organism injured directly by the pesticide, it is important to consider the other organisms that depend on the ones removed. The general discussion of their effects can, therefore, be lumped by class of pesticide. Herbicides This class of chemicals includes a small number of chemicals actually registered for use in forestry.
Trees have a major impact on every other living thing in the forest.
Removal of trees by any means causes an increase in the amount of soil moisture, nutrients, and light available for the vegetation that survives the disturbance. Thus, logging, herbicide application, and girdling have many common results. The most important impact of tree killing is the release of site resources, followed by the increase in development of ground vegetation. This is an ecological principle of great importance. Because of it, it is possible to establish regeneration of light demanding species after trees are removed.