The structure of stands of Corsican pine (Pinus nigra Arn. calabrica Schn.) on coarse sands

Abstract

This paper is a sequel to a previous article written by the same authors and entitled: “Growth and development of stands of Corsican pine on coarse sands”. It aims to contribute to the development of an appropriate management scheme for these Corsican pine forests, that are established on the coarse sands of northern Belgium, by analysing the stand composition as found at present and by extrapolating existing trends. The study makes special reference to the internal stand structure, the social stratification within the stand, the quality distribution of the trees and the interrelationship between the latter two factors. Cost-benefit ratios, however, have not been considered at this stage and variations due to changes in site quality or potential have been found insignificant within the broad soil class of the coarse sands. Recommendations have been formulated, taking into account customary management interventions and the unavoidable reorientation of the management of these pine forests towards the production of high quality timber.