Influence of post-harvest silviculture on understory vegetation: Implications for forage in a multi-ungulate system

摘要: Abstract Natural disturbance emulation has emerged as a key management approach to maintaining biodiversity in logged boreal forests. Forest managers’ success emulating understory forest ecosystem functions, e.g., for the provision of habitat even large mammals, not been tested due, many cases, incomplete records silviculture. We examined regenerating areas previously conifer-dominated forests northwestern Ontario, Canada, 10 and 30 years after logging fire test if development moose (Alces alces) forage abundance differed between two types artificial or natural regeneration approaches. In addition, we counted pellet groups measure use region. Specific treatments included: (1) naturally regenerating, fire-origin forests, (2) post-harvest, with establishment trees, (3) mechanical chemical site preparation planting and/or herbicide spraying. hypothesized that post-harvest stands would support higher availability compared similarly-aged, stands. Abundance hardwoods, shrubs, herbaceous plants was greater naturally-regenerated than artificially regenerated at both post-disturbance. However, were significantly associated use, rather evidence increased function amount surrounding landscape. This study suggests that, relative fire, intensity silviculture influences suitability moose. The effect likely cascades other ungulates, such woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou), vegetation needs be considered scales stand level order achieve mammals.