STEMS > Silvicultural Systems > Extended Rotation

Extended Rotation

Extended rotation is not a silvicultural system, but in this experiment, it provides baseline data for comparing silvicultural systems. The management objective for the area is to leave the forest undisturbed and to observe the natural processes of tree growth and mortality over the next 80 years. At that time, many of the trees will be 140 years old and may exhibit some old-growth attributes that will enhance biodiversity, wildlife habitat, and aesthetic values.

For photos of extended rotation see Tour Stop 2.

Silvicultural Systems:

1. Patch Cut
2. Extended Rotation
3. Group Selection
4. Clearcut with Reserves
5. Dispersed Retention
6. Extended Rotation with Commercial Thinning
7. Aggregate Retention

At the time of the establishment of the STEMS experiment

A view of the extended rotation treatment.

Summary Description of Key Features

Silvicultural System: Extended Rotation – Uncut Control
Treatment Unit Size: 12 ha
Opening Size: 0 ha
Deferred Areas: Entire area to be deferred from harvest for 80 years
Retention Structures Objective: 3 ha of adjacent wildlife tree patches
Age Structure: Even-aged