STEMS is a cooperative, operational, multi-disciplinary experiment that will measure the effects of seven silvicultural systems and extended rotation treatments on forest dynamics, economic viability, and public perception.

There are three replications of STEMS in the Sayward Forest. STEMS 1 was harvested in 2001 in partnership with B.C. Timber Sales, STEMS 2 was harvested in 2005 in partnership with International Forest Products and STEMS 3 was harvested in 2008 in partnership with B.C. Timber Sales. The STEMS Location page provides a map of the locations of these replications.

The project includes studies of:

STEMS is part of a larger study done in co-operation with the U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station, Olympia Forestry Sciences Laboratory. Three replications of the same treatments (excluding the aggregate retention), plot designs and measurements have been established in the Capitol Forest near Olympia, Washington. See more about the Silvicultural Options for Harvesting Young-Growth Production Forests.

This long-term research will produce significant knowledge about how to achieve healthy, sustainable forests by applying publicly acceptable alternatives to clearcutting. This knowledge will determine how best to meet the goals and targets set out in the Vancouver Island Land Use Plan, and the Sayward Landscape Unit Plan, and other applicable higher-level plans. It will also help policy-makers, decision makers, and resource practitioners design more effective policies, regulations, and guidelines.

See an aerial photo of the STEMS experiment in the Sayward Forest.