Optimal residual growing stock and cutting cycle in mixed uneven-aged maritime pine stands in Northwestern Spain

Abstract

This study analyses two important phases of the continuous cover forestry (CCF) management. The first phase involves the determination of the optimum cutting cycle and residual growing stock level for mixed uneven-aged Pinus pinaster Ait. stands in Galicia (NW Spain). The Faustmann formula to calculate the land expectation value (LEV) was used for the economic evaluation of the different management options. In addition, sensitivity analysis was carried out assuming varying price levels and discount rates. The second phase deals with a comparison between CCF management and rotation forest management (RFM). The LEVs for four commonly used RFM practices were calculated. The results of the comparison indicate that on low sites (SI⩽13) CCF management is superior, whereas on high sites (SI>13) RFM gives higher returns.