Ministry of Forests Forest Science Program
		Abstract for FRDA Report 239

		Are European Silvicultural Systems and Precedents Useful for British Columbia Silviculture Prescriptions?
		Author or Ministry Contact: G.F. Weetman
		Branch: Research
		Subject: Silvicultural Systems
		Series: FRDA Report
		Other details: Published January 1996

Abstract

There is strong pressure on silviculturists in British Columbia to modify the practice of large their cuts in overmature, natural forests. The relevance of European silviculture practices (and some American precedents and practices) for British Columbia conditions is assessed, based on the voluminous literature and on several visits to Europe. Some fundamental differences in the forests, forest use, and regulating controls are identified. European practices are based on over 100 years of work and tend to be very traditional, but are also subject to contemporary environmental criticism - some guiding principles are identified. Comments are made on individual systems and on the scientific basis for silvicultural systems research. Canadian silviculture should be flexible, imaginative, innovative, and should demonstrate an understanding of forest dynamics. It is concluded that European guidelines for silviculture principles and nature conservation are relevant to British Columbia, but are not a model for Canadian silviculture prescriptions intended to meet multi-use objectives.

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