Characteristics of the Selection Method.pptVIP

Two-Aged (Hybrid) Silvicultural Systems Two-Aged Silviculture Two-aged management is a hybrid between even-aged management and uneven-aged management Regeneration is accomplished (in general) two times over a standard rotation. Two age classes Referred to as: irregular shelterwoods, reserve shelterwoods, leave tree systems, and deferment methods Benefits of a Two-Age System Development of large-diameter sawtimber or veneer trees Production of a wide range of forest products from pulp to veneer in the same stand at the same time Ability to regenerate shade-intolerant and intermediate shade-tolerant species Improved aesthetics compared to clearcutting Increased structural diversity and retention of habitat components compared to clearcutting Benefits of a Two-Age System Increased initial revenue compared to other types of non-clearcut regeneration techniques Development of old-growth structural characteristics Maintenance of sexual reproduction in reserve trees throughout the entire rotation and the ability to “life boat” species that would otherwise be eliminated if the area was clearcut Constraints/Undesirable Features of Two-Aged System Reducing older age classes to low densities and wide spacing increase the danger of blowdown Residual trees may be prone to epicormic branching Reserve trees must be carefully selected Lack of appropriate long-lived species to maintain the system Constraints/Undesirable Features of Two-Aged System Forest fragmentation and habitat effects similar to clearcutting Reduction in initial revenues compared to clearcutting Limited development of shade-tolerant species Damage to new age-class trees if a portion of reserve trees are removed prior to the end of the second rotation length Irregular or Reserve Shelterwood: Leaves residual overstory for an extended period of time into new rotation – creates two-aged stand In central hardwood region, reserve tree density is approximately 10 to 15 ft2 ac-1 of basal area Has ecologic