Features of application of timber harvest methods in the forests of Ukraine

Abstract

In this paper, we present the basic features of final felling in Ukraine. Prevailing timber harvest methods and their areas were considered. For analyzing the volumes of modern forest exploitation were data from permits for final felling on actual cuttings in of all forestry enterprises of Ukraine. Studies were conducted for the period 2019-2020. It was installed that clearcutting is the main timber harvest method (95 % in Kyiv region, 45 % in Lviv region). Among other methods, the leading place is shelterwood. During the study period, only two (uniform and strip) and three (group) reception of shelterwood were recorded. The areas of stands designed for shelterwood final felling are significantly lower than those defined by the rules. The use of the single tree selection method is more related to deciduous plantations, which indirectly indicates the predominance of deciduous stands of uneven-aged stands in Ukraine. Shelterwood and single tree selection removes methods are applied in Chernihiv, Chernivtsi, Ivano-Frankivsk, Kyiv, Lviv, Zakarpattia, Zhytomyr regions. A characteristic feature is the predominance of coniferous areas stands during clearcutting. Area of deciduous stands are larger compared to coniferous during shelterwood. Combined method is the less popular in Ukraine. It has been carried out at 9,4 hectares for two years. Average logging areas range from 1-2 hectares for clearcutting, 1-5 hectares for shelterwood and 2-8 hectares for combined method. Designed logging areas are significantly lower than those introduced by Ukrainian legislation. The implementation of the principles of close-to-nature forestry can be provided by reduction in the volume of clearcutting. Increasing of shelterwood and single tree selection methods, which are close-to-nature, will ensure the cultivation of mixed uneven-aged forest stands of high vigor, productivity and biological stability. Studies reflect regional and species features and benefits of timber harvest methods in the forests of Ukraine.