Conversion of Mountain Beech Coppices into High Forest: An Example for Ecological Intensification.

摘要: Converting beech coppices into high forest stands has been promoted in the last decades as a management goal to attenuate negative effects that frequent clearcutting may have on soil, landscape, and biodiversity conservation. The silvicultural tool usually adopted is gradual thinning of shoots during long span time required complete conversion, also allows owner keep harvesting some wood. This research reports discusses, light ecological intensification approach, results achieved from an experimental test started more than 25 years ago 42-year-old (Fagus sylvatica L.) coppice with standards central Italy. various intensities (three treatments plus control) stand growth structure are assessed by successive inventories. Analyses integrated spatial indices assess stem density canopy cover. through proves be effective step down road systems characterized continuous cover, suitable guarantee both public private interests. Thinning led fewer but larger stems, thus accelerating conversion process while maintaining wood capability environmental services.