Method of Establishing Two-Storied Forests in Natural Deciduous Forests by Stand Structure Adjustment in Pyeongchang Area

Abstract

This study was conducted to provide a method of establishing two-storied forests by the adjustment of stand structures in natural deciduous forests of Pyeongchang area. Three permanent sampling plots of 0.09 ha were established in study site and some tree variables were measured in each sampling plot before the treatment of two-storied system. Stand attributes and stand structures before treatment were estimated based on the data measured in sampling plots. The results indicate that the current stand status is different from typical stand structures of two-storied forests. A simulation technique was applied to predict stand attributes and stand structures after the treatment of two-storied system. Results suggest that significant time is required to accomplish target stand structures even after applying the treatment of two-storied system. Number of trees in the upper canopy class after treatment was predicted to be 170 trees/ha, which adequately meets the target of two-storied forests. It was predicted, however, that the lower canopy class trees has much less trees compared with the typical stand structures of two-storied forests. This problem could be solved with ingrowth of infant trees over time or by under-planting of tolerant species. It is confirmed that the target growing stock volumes of the upper canopy class should be approximately considering stand status after treatment. It is predicted that twenty years of conversion period is required to accomplish this goal. The changes in stand structures over time should be assessed based on stand inventory carried out every five years, and additional treatments for inducing two-storied forests should be applied if necessary.