Abstract
The length of greenup delay in the Nelson Forest Region was investigated. Three different scenarios were constructed. In the Base Case, a site index estimation program was used to construct delays similar to those in the last Timber Supply Review. Current Practice used actual MLSIS/ISIS data to estimate greenup delays. Finally, the effect of Enhanced Silviculture Practices was modeled.
The greenup delay from these scenarios was used to estimate effects on Annual Allowable Cuts in Cranbrook and Revelstoke TSAs. Increases of up to 11.6% in the short term could be attributed to lowering greenup delays through improved silviculture. However, little increase was shown in the long run sustainable yield. If greenup heights are reduced from the current 3 m to 2 m. similar gains would appear in the absence of an improved silvicultural program.
A change in objectives from survival to growth will be necessary if improved silviculture practices are to be used to reduce greenup delays. This change will necessitate an increase in site preparation and brushing in particular. Expansion of techniques such as herbicide use will be necessary, and more sites (especially drier sites) may have to be treated. Genetically improved seed can provide a large part of the reduction at little cost, while also conferring long term improvements in yield.
In order to achieve these improvements in available wood supply, free growing standards will have to be changed to encourage and enforce better practice. The minimum height requirement will have to be raised and the free growing delay period reduced. The application of these enhanced standards will also have to be planned to maximize the effectiveness of expenditures.
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Updated April 12, 2007
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