Research by the Forest Dynamics Group concentrates on factors which influence regeneration, survival, and growth of young forests. Our research program includes a diversity of applied and basic research designed to solve important operational problems in forest regeneration, establishment, and management. We are also improving our understanding of associated limiting factors and processes.

Researchers are examining seedling growth in nursery and field conditions. Studies of options for improving conditions for seedling growth in the field, including mechanical site preparation and brush clearing are underway. Brush clearing options such as herbicides, manual cutting, mulch materials, and the use of natural pathogens are being explored at a variety of sites. In addition, studies are documenting the benefits and impacts of various operational treatments. In boreal forests, extensive winter injury can occur in young spruce plantations. Studies are underway to improve our understanding of factors which cause such injuries and to identify ways to reduce their impact.

Studies of the growth and dynamics of broadleaf and mixedwood forests are being conducted by Forest Dynamics scientists at various locations in B.C. These studies are designed to provide information required for efficient and ecologically sound management of broadleaf and mixedwood forests in B.C.

Staff in the Forest Dynamics Group are located in Victoria (at Branch Headquarters) and in Prince George (at Red Rock Research Station).

For more information on the Forest Dynamics group, contact Keith Thomas.  

Main Research Areas

Broadleaf and Mixedwood Management

Vegetation Management

Broadleaves and mixedwoods are a significant part of B.C.'s forested ecosystems, offering shelter and forage for many wildlife species and contributing to the overall biodiversity of this unique province. In addition, they are a renewable resource that provides employment opportunities now and in the future. In order to sustainably manage these forests we need more local information and experience. Our research concentrates on interactions between various broadleaf tree species and the surrounding vegetation. Studies currently underway are examining:
(1) the interactions between red alder and Douglas-fir; (2) the effect of thinning bigleaf maple on understorey light and its relationship to neighbouring conifer growth; (3) thinning paper birch stands to improve both birch and understorey conifer growth; and, (4) improving juvenile poplar growth through the control of competing vegetation.

Information from these studies will improve our knowledge of the dynamics of these forest types, and help forest managers make informed decisions that preserve timber production and biodiversity, and ensure long-term sustainability of this resource.

• Component Studies:
  Effects of Red Alder on Stand Dynamics and Nutrient Availability

Return to the top of this page | Go to the projects directory

Vegetation management is required to ensure successful establishment and growth of many reforested areas in B.C. Over the 14 year period from 1981 to 1994 a total of 520,800 hectares of crown forest land received brushing treatments at a cost of approximately $213 million. During 1994/95 approximately 70,000 hectares of crown forest land received brushing treatments to ensure establishment and growth of young seedlings. This involved the use of herbicides (35% of the area), manual cutting ( 52%), and sheep grazing (13%). In addition, site preparation treatments are applied to approximately 140,000 hectares annually to reduce slash, prepare sites for planting, encourage natural regeneration, and control vegetation. It is estimated that 80,000 ha of crown forest land need to be brushed annually in B.C.

The vegetation management research program provides information to support development of cost-effective and environmentally sound vegetation management prescriptions. Research projects are designed to provide information for the development, evaluation and comparison of vegetation management treatments.

Databases for treatment planning and an experimental design protocol for treatment response evaluations have been developed. Studies of the impacts of differing amounts of competition and various levels of competition control on performance of young conifers will provide information that is useful for identifying competition problems. Information on the impacts of several vegetation management options on establishment and growth of young stands is being collected to provide a basis for evaluating the long-term impacts of these treatments.

We have initiated a number of research projects during the past 4 years to evaluate treatment options for improving the survival and performance of young forest plantations. Remeasurement of older, previously established vegetation management trials is also underway to provide longer term crop tree and vegetation response information.

Return to the top of this page