Canadian Forest Service Publications
Developing Silvicultural Systems for Sustainable Forestry in Canada. 2003. Mitchell, A.K.; Burgess, D.M.; Maynard, D.G.; Groot, A.; Lussier, J.M.; Ottens, H.; Titus, B.D. Page 249 in Proceedings of the XII World Forestry Congress, September 21-28, 2003, Quebec, Canada. Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Rome, Italy, Vol. C - People and Forests in Harmony, Co-published by Natural Resources Canada, Canadian Forest Service, and the Government of Quebec.
Year: 2003
Issued by: Pacific Forestry Centre
Catalog ID: 23840
Language: English
Availability: PDF (download)
Abstract
The development of silvicultural systems for sustainable forestry in Canada involves providing science-based options to manage forests for multiple values. Currently, the focus of forest management is shifting toward partial cutting and retention systems, based on the assumption that forest structure, habitat, biodiversity and healthy ecosystem processes form links in a sustainability chain. However, the links in the chain have seldom, if ever, been tested. This defines a vital role for undertaking silvicultural research that is closely linked with forestry operations and can be applied to rationalize the apparent dilemma of managing for both timber and forest values. Long-term silviculture experiments supported by the Canadian Forest Service and its partners form an integral part of the development of silvicultural systems for sustainable forest management in Canada. In this paper, case studies are used to illustrate how the issues of (1) managing old-growth forests, (2) emulating natural disturbance, and (3) promoting the regeneration of natural forests through partial cutting are being addressed through scientific research. By providing information for comparing the ecological impacts of silvicultural alternatives, science-based systems can be developed to manage forests for diverse products and services. These systems need to be flexible enough that adaptive strategies can be used to address changing societal issues and values.