Effect of shelterwoods on stocking and growth of regeneration in dry high altitudeEucalyptus delegatensisforests

Abstract

Summary Partial logging was introduced to Eucalyptus delegatensis forests at altitudes over 600 m to reduce the incidence of high altitude growth check. Subsequently it has been used for a number of other management reasons. Experiments showed that whilst the initial stocking of regeneration increased with basal area of stems retained, later aged stocking and growth of regeneration could be severely depressed by the retention of basal area in excess of 12 mha−1. Where shelterwoods are prescribed, the optimum level of basal area that should be retained will vary according to the annual rainfall of the site, but in general basal area should be reduced to the lowest level capable of providing the requisite protection and ensure full stocking. This figure can be expected to vary between 12 and 16 m2ha−1. These results have been incorporated into operational prescriptions for this forest type.