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1 Definition of a Silvicultural System 4 The Decision Process Appendix 1 Answer Key
2 Major Types of Systems 5 There's More to Learn Appendix 2 Advantages and Disadvantages
3 Variations of Major Types 6 Implementation Appendix 3 References

The Meaning of

A definition of silvicultural systems must first address the meaning of silviculture. Although this definition can be quite complex, most authors provide variations of the following:

Silviculture is the art and science of controlling the establishment, growth, composition, and quality of forest vegetation for the full range of forest resource objectives.

Successful silviculture depends on clearly defined management objectives. However, silviculture is often confused with managing stands and forests purely for timber. Remember that silviculture is also used to manage forests for wildlife, water, recreation, aesthetics, or any combination of these or other forest uses.

Diagram of wildlife tree.

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Silvicultural practice consists of the various treatments that may be applied to forest stands to maintain and enhance their utility for any purpose.
David M. Smith (1986)

Silviculture also ensures the long-term continuity of essential ecologic functions, and the health and productivity of forested ecosystems.
Ralph Nyland (1996)

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