Forest regeneration in Northern and Northwestern Russia in 1993–2004—Methods, results and development needs

Abstract

Concern about the sustainability of forestry in Russia has increased, especially among the end-users of forest products in Europe. A key factor in sustainable forestry is successful regeneration of harvested forests. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the sustainability of timber harvesting by analysing implemented forest regeneration measures in the Northern and Northwestern economic regions of Russia since the collapse of the Soviet Union and to determine the results of these regeneration efforts. An additional aim was to highlight development needs in forest regeneration to thus improve the quality of regeneration practises and the sustainability of forestry in the future. The study was based on official data from the state forest and statistics authorities and the research literature on Russian forestry. In the Northwestern region (Leningrad, Pskov, and Novgorod regions) the main method of regeneration was planting, whereas in the Northern region (Arkhangelsk, Murmansk and Vologda regions, Republics of Karelia and Komi) the dominant method was assisted natural regeneration by conservation of advance growth in cuttings. In 1993-1997, the final-felling area decreased by 40%, but in 1998-2001 it increased again, by 23%, together with development of Russian forest industry production. In the study area, the main method of final felling was clear felling. During the first half of the study period, 1993-1998, the mean annual area of forest regeneration was greater than the clear-felling area. In the second half (1999-2004), however, the ratio was, on average, in the Northern region 0.89 and in the Northwestern region 0.72. On the other hand, the differences between regions were significant, as the ratio in the Pskov region was 0.61 and in the Murmansk region 2.8. In the Republic of Karelia, 77% of the assisted natural regeneration areas and 59% of the artificial regeneration areas were successfully regenerated after 6 and 10 years, respectively. In the Leningrad region, the corresponding proportions were 75% and 83%. The extent and quality of the forest regeneration and the methods used did not fulfil the requirements of instructions with respect to time and quality. In forest management, special emphasis should be put on securing qualified regeneration of the whole clear-felling area. The key factors in improving regeneration results are qualified implementation, the new Russian forest code and regional normative instructions in preparation, as well as training of personnel.