The yield advantages of artificial regeneration at high latitudes.

Abstract

The 6th international workshop on forest regeneration at high latitudes took place during a period of transition for the forest industry worldwide. The economic slump in the forest products industry had bottomed-out; the planting approach to forest regeneration was being questioned, primarily, but not solely for economic reasons; the future of the workshops on forest regeneration at high latitudes was being examined; and changes were in progress within the School of Agriculture and Land Resources Management at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks. The economic slump in the forest industry began in North America in 1981. The profits of the previous decade evaporated overnight. The concept of sustained yield forest management was being challenged for economic reasons. In the North American west and north, funds simply are not available for long-term investment in forest stand management. Tree planting, one of the more expensive long-term forestry investments, is being scrutinized more closely. Alternatives, including planting of seeds instead of seedlings, encouragement and acceptance of natural regeneration, accepting longer regeneration periods, and even accepting nonsatisfactory levels of stock, are being considered.

Citation

Murray, M., eds. 1986. The yield advantages of artificial regeneration at high latitudes. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-194. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 60 p