Research Branch Staff Publications

Site index adjustment for old-growth coastal western hemlock stands in the Kalum Forest District.

Citation:

Nigh, G.D. and B.A. Love. 1997. Site index adjustment for old-growth coastal western hemlock stands in the Kalum Forest District. B.C. Min. For., Res. Br., Victoria, B.C. Work. Pap. 27. 13 p.

Abstract:

Inventory information indicates that the average site index of old-growth western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla (Raf.) Sarg.) leading stands in the cwh portion of the Kalum Timber Supply Area is 13.3 m. Field observations by many foresters suggest that second-growth stands are performing much better than the inventory information indicates. Therefore, a study was conducted to examine the change in estimated site index when old-growth hemlock stands are harvested and regenerated to managed hemlock. The site indices of old-growth stands were compared to those of regenerated stands by spatial (paired plot technique) and temporal (relocated temporary sample plot) methods. Site indices measured in the managed stands were 11.3 m greater than those measured in the old-growth stands. The application of the results is discussed.

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