Exploring the history of the management theory and technology of broad-leaved Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis Sieb. et Zucc.)forest in Changbai Mountain Region, Northeast China.

Abstract

Changbai Mountain is located in the eastern mountain forest region of Northeast China, with broad-leaved Korean pine forest (BKF) as the climax vegetation type. The region is rich in species diversity and serves as an important carrier for precious wood production and forest belts in Northeast China. In the recent 120 years, the vast primary forests in Changbai Mountains have almost disappeared, and have been replaced by secondary forests, over-cut forests, and plantations. Since the founding of the People's Republic of China, the theory and technology of forest management for BKF in Northeast China have gradually improved along with the researches and understanding on the structure and function of BKF, the disputes of Korean pine regeneration characteristics, and the debate about clear cutting and selective cutting. However, the problem of insufficient Korean pine regeneration still exists, and forest management is very extensive. We tried to untangle the management technology trail and research history of BKF in the past 70 years, and to analyze the current forest types and the formation process of the management regulations, with the aim to provide reference for the sustainable management and quality improvement of natural forests in the region.