Nutritional consequences of intensive forest harvesting on site productivity

Abstract

Predicting the effects of harvesting practices on long-term site productivity is crucial if we are to manage forests for sustained yield. Long-term field trials are required to accurately determined the consequences of various harvesting practices, and the information from such trials should be extended to other sites through computer models or site classification systems. However, the use of computer models by forest managers is currently limited by our lack of knowledge of several key processes that influence site productivity, and there is an urgent need for more research on these processes. Site classification systems have potential application for extending results from empirical field trials and process studies, and should be considered for use as management tools. International collaborative research projects provide excellent mechanisms to rapidly advance our understanding of forest ecosystem dynamics and to enhance our ability to predict the consequences of harvesting practices on long-term site productivity.