Abstract
Variable-density thinning is emerging as a valuable tool for the silvicultural promotion of old-growth conditions in second-growth forests of the Pacific Coast. This paper reports on an experimental variable-density thinning prescription applied between 2006 and 2007 at north coastal California’s Humboldt Redwoods State Park. The prescription strategy relied on known patterns of second-growth stand development during the stem exclusion phase, and was designed to alter current stand development trajectories in order to promote reference forest conditions. Prescription outcomes are described and tradeoffs are discussed, with management constraints unique to parks and reserves providing the context for this analysis.
Parent Publication
Keywords
ecological restoration,
forest stand dynamics,
disturbance,
stand structure
Citation
Keyes, Christopher R.; Perry, Thomas E.; Plummer, Jesse F. 2010. Variable-density thinning for parks and reserves: An experimental case study at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California. In: Jain, Theresa B.; Graham, Russell T.; Sandquist, Jonathan. Integrated management of carbon sequestration and biomass utilization opportunities in a changing climate: Proceedings of the 2009 National Silviculture Workshop; 2009 June 15-18; Boise, ID. Proceedings RMRS-P-61. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 227-237.
