A Preliminary Analysis of Short-rotation Aspen Management

Abstract

Stand-yield models were developed for stem and branch wood, stem wood and conventional utilization standards for various sites and initial densities. A model of sucker reproduction following harvesting is also presented. These models were then subjected to conventional economic analyses and long-term simulation comparisons. Results indicate that aspen rotations may be moderately shortened, with substantial increases in yields if utilization standards are increased. Greatest potential lies with the best sites, but more complete utilization standards may also allow operations on sites currently considered marginal. Rotations based on the usual soil-expectation value criteria could be reduced from the current 35 to 45-year range (at 5% discount rate) down to 20–30 years. Extremely short rotations (e.g., < 15 years) appear undesirable due to sustained rapid volume and value growth rates well into the third decade.