Effects of Forest Management on Watersheds

Abstract

This article discusses a study of the effects of cover on runoff and available water that was carried out at Fernow Experimental Forest in West Virginia. The area under study was calibrated for a 6‐year period before four different cutting practices were carried out. The cutting practices included commercial clear‐cut, diameter limit, extensive‐selection management, and intensive‐selection management. Climatic and streamflow data were collected as a basis for establishing a normal behavior pattern. Specifications for the four cutting practices applied are provided in the article. Results of the study demonstrated that cutting of forest vegetation increases streamflow, and much of the damage to water quality due to poor skid road practice can be avoided by proper planning of skid roads and reasonable care in logging.