Effects of whole-tree harvesting on nutrient supplies and nutrient cycles in a forest ecosystem: a literature review
Intensive harvesting, whole-tree harvesting, and complete-tree utilization are being incorporated into management plans. Plants require sixteen or more nutrients. To determine impacts of intensive harvesting, research has begun to investigate nutrient losses associated with the removal of harvested material. Research efforts are focusing on quantifying direct nutrient loss from removal of additional biomass and identifying direct nutrient losses associated with whole-tree harvesting operations. An estimated 30-65% increase in biomass removal (from whole-tree harvesting operations as opposed to stem-only harvests) is accompanied by a 100-215% increase in nutrient removal. Whole-tree harvesting of hardwoods doubles the removal of nutrients from stem-only harvests. The significance of direct nutrient loss is not agreed upon. Some studies indicate that while stem-only harvests remove nutrients at rates replenishable from other sources, there is insufficient data to determine if whole-tree harvesing results in losses which exceed the system's natural replenishing capacity. Two projects in New England will contribute to understanding of nutrient loss. Ecosystem Effects of Whole-Tree Harvesting in New England: This study in spruce-fir stands in northern Maine, northern hardwood in New Hampshire, and central hardwoods in Connecticut is desiged to qualify nutrient loss from biomass removal and leaching; identify changes in the forest floor and deadwood following harvesting; evaluate changes in nitrogen availability; study nutrient capital, and develop a nutrient budget. Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest: In addition to research in litter accumulation and decomposition and nitrogen cycling, the National Science Foundation is funding a study on the impacts of whole-tree harvesting on the forest ecosystem. Both projects should be completed by 1987. (Refs. 27).
- Research Organization:
- Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests
- OSTI ID:
- 6008801
- Journal Information:
- Natl Woodlands; (), Vol. 5:6
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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