Plantations In Italy Research Articles

Comparison between Different Mechanization Systems: Economic Sustainability of Harvesting Poplar Plantations in Italy

After a period of significant development, poplar cultivation in Italy has been in rapid decline since the 1980s. Because of its marked ductility, poplar is valuable for both wood furniture and energy production. Production could be increased through mechanization, because innovative machinery and equipment can reduce the exposure of forest workers to common risk factors, ensure greater and better productivity, increase the efficiency of operations, and reduce costs. There are various systems for the mechanization of poplar production (from traditional to advanced and pushed mechanization). We describe the range of possibilities (in terms of both the techniques adopted and the machines used) for planting, harvesting, and chopping poplar. Based on our analysis of operating costs, we conclude that mechanized poplar production could reduce the average cost per ton of wood chips (EUR/t) by 23% and the average gross cost per hectare of wood chips produced (EUR/ha) by 37%.

Ant attendance does not necessarily imply protection of aphids from their arthropod natural enemies

Abstract Many ants and hemipterans are bound by a mutualistic relationship (trophobiosis) which represents an ecological keystone: ants receive food (honeydew) providing different kinds of protection. Partner protection against arthropod natural enemies is considered to be frequent and to interfere with biological control strategies of hemipteran pests. We carried out an ant‐exclusion field experiment in a fava bean (Vicia faba) plantation in Italy to monitor the abundance and behaviour of the ants (Plagiolepis pygmaea, Tetramorium semilaeve and the exotic Nylanderia jaegerskioeldi) and their relationship with facultative mutualist (Aphis fabae) and non‐mutualist (Megoura viciae) aphids, the arthropod natural enemies of the aphids, and extrafloral nectaries. Ants concentrated their activity on the attendance of facultative mutualist aphids much more than on the extrafloral nectaries. The ant‐exclusion treatment had no effect on the abundance of M. viciae and on the parasitization rate of A. fabae, while it reduced the abundance of A. fabae, aphid predators, and aphid parasitoids. Our results demonstrate that ant attendance does not imply the protection of aphids from arthropod natural enemies and suggest that the identity of the ant species involved is important for the outcome. As relatively few species have been studied in this regard, extending our knowledge to the role of more ant species is desirable to understand the ecology and evolution of ant‐aphid mutualisms and to refine integrated control strategies of aphid pests.

Models for Economic Evaluation of Silvicultural Interventions in Radiata Pine Plantations in Italy

The study deals with the sustainability of management in radiata pine (Pinus radiata D. Don.) plantations, focusing on management strategies that favor continuous forest cover and natural regeneration processes by balancing environmental and economic aspects. In a study area of Sardinia (Italy), tests were carried out in 45-year-old plantations through systematic and selective thinning, as well as regeneration felling. This was performed considering the current forest dynamism fostered by natural regeneration, and also the technical and economic aspects. Predictive models of work times, productivity, costs, and profit were built for the three observed treatments based on the experimental data. From an economic point of view, the various silvicultural management operations were always positive, with some differences depending on the type of intervention. The regeneration felling, with the planned natural regeneration of the pine forest in the following years, ensures the best economic results per unit of worked area, obtaining an average profit of about EUR 11,000 ha−1, as compared to EUR 9000 ha−1 of systematic thinning and to EUR 5000 ha−1 of selective thinning, along with other ecological benefits, including a continuous forest cover and the replacement of even aged plantations, increasing the biodiversity in forest stands (structure and species). The transformation of forest plantations into more resilient ecosystems on an economic sustainability basis can be effectively achieved through continuous coverage forest management approaches in the context of the study area.

Single-tree crown shape and crown volume models for Pinus nigra J. F. Arnold in central Italy

Key message The crown volume of Pinus nigra trees can be modelled as a function of the total crown length and the crown radius at crown base to support forest management practices. ContextThe crown volume of trees is rarely considered in forest management practices and is often approximated to a simple cone or paraboloid whose volume can be broadly derived from costly measurements.AimsWe developed two equations to predict single-tree crown volumes for Pinus nigra plantations in Italy based on the analysis of a database with 3578 trees.MethodsTwo key crown parameters (total length of the crown and crown radius at crown base) were here modelled using directly measurable mensurational data using Generalise Additive Mixed-effect Model. Afterwards, two functions were then proposed to predict single-tree crown volumes.ResultsThe fitted models were statistically significant and explaining 57.6% for crown radius at crown base and 87.1% for crown length of the total variance. The power model for single-tree crown volumes calculation showed a mean absolute error around 4.1 m3 for the upper portion of the crown and 12.1 m3 for the lower part for a mean absolute relative error of 12.5% and 32.0% respectively for a global value of 16.4%.ConclusionSingle-tree and stand-level data are fundamental to balance forest management trajectories. The provided functions may be used in external dataset to derive indication on the single-tree or stand-level crown volume to be used as indicators of ground coverage.

The GIS database of WOODnat project for the inventory and monitoring of walnut plantations in Italy and Spain

Within the activity of the H2020 ‘WOODnat’ project (“ Second generation of planted hardwood forests in the European Union ”) the growth parameters, yield and sanitary conditions of the most important walnut ( Juglans spp.) plantations, established in Italy in the 1990s and in Spain starting from 1996, were recorded. One of the objectives of the project was to evaluate tree growth and stem quality to derive insight on the main environmental factors affecting the production of this valuable specie. An inventory of walnut plantations in the area of interest was necessary due to the relevance of this tree species in the EU timber market. In this paper the final dataset is presented and available with DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.3769940. The database is finalized to narrow the knowledge gap between growers and processing industry with the aim to relaunching the market for this valuable species. Data were collected in the spring 2017 and winter 2017-2018 on 27 stands established in Northern Italy (Piemonte and Lombardia), on 51 stands in Central Italy (Toscana and Marche) and on 17 stands in Spain for a total of 95 plantations. In each plantation, general information was collected such as the planting layout, spacing, age, environment conditions as well as tree-level dendrometric data and phytosanitary information. The sampled stands have been georeferenced in WGS84 reference system (EPSG 4326). These data can be exploited to assess potential wood volume obtainable and quality of raw material, and to identify the weaknesses and errors, strengths and opportunities of the experiences conducted to plan future plantings with greater awareness.

Probabilistic sampling and estimation for large-scale assessment of poplar plantations in Northern Italy

In the recent decades, growing demand for wood products, combined with efforts to conserve natural forests, has supported a steady increase in the global extent of planted forests. In this paper, a two-phase sampling strategy for large-scale assessment of hybrid poplar plantations in Northern Italy was implemented. The first phase was performed by means of tessellation stratified sampling on high-resolution remotely sensed imagery, covering the survey area by a grid of regular polygons of equal size and randomly and independently selecting one point per quadrat. All the plantations spotted by at least one sample point were selected. In the second phase, we randomly chosen a subset of plantations by stratified sampling that were visited on the ground to collect qualitative and quantitative attributes. The resulting estimates were reliable, and the survey demonstrated relatively easy to be implemented and replicated. These considerations support the use of the proposed sampling strategy to frequently update information on fast-growing forest plantations within agricultural farms, like hybrid poplar crops. Moreover, the results of the case study here presented highlight the relevance of hybrid poplar plantations in Italy, in the context of sustainable development strategies under a green economy perspective.

The walnut plantations (Juglans spp.) in Italy and Spain: main factors affecting growth

Walnut tree species ( Juglans spp.) are commonly used for high-quality wood production in plantation forestry. In this paper, the most relevant walnut plantations in Italy and Spain have been reviewed and analysed under a geographic and technician management point of view. Between 2016 and 2019 a total of 96 plantations (15 - 25 years old) were visited distributed in the North-western part of the Mediterranean basin. A statistical analysis (linear model no interaction and PCA) was then performed to evaluate the relative importance of some environmental and management variables for walnut trees in analysed plantations. Results highlighted a variable situation with many different adopted planting schemes across the regions as well as a not standardised spatial layout and management type (thinning). Lower densities and smaller trees were adopted in Italy with about 200 trees ha -1 versus 330 trees ha -1 in Spain. In addition to the age of the plantation as one of the most influencing parameters also the plantation density and the average crown diameter were highly statistically significant. Overall, the interesting potentiality of walnut for timber production with active management in suitable areas was detected as the focal point for a successful timber production from walnut trees.

Forest plantations in Southwestern Europe: A comparative trend analysis on investment returns, markets and policies

This paper represents the first analysis of forest plantation investments on a comparative perspective in the context of Southwestern Europe. We estimated and compared potential investment returns at aggregate level for some of the most important productive forest plantation species in the region, including hybrid poplar in northern Italy, in Castile and León (Spain) and in Navarre (Spain), eucalyptus and maritime pine in Portugal, and radiata pine in the Basque Country (Spain). We carried out a financial analysis before-taxes, using typical capital budgeting indicators. Indicators were calculated according to a baseline scenario as well as in alternative scenarios, analyzing how the main policy and market factors influence returns. We also carried out a trend analysis to provide means for comparing the evolution of expected and actual returns in recent years. Overall, our results indicate that in Southwestern Europe there are some opportunities for reasonably attractive investment returns (IRR>5%) from forest plantations mainly for current landowners and forest products industry, and only in some cases potentially interesting also for financial investors. Nevertheless, there are significant differences among species and contexts as well as structural limitations in the region – i.e. related to timber market, biotic and abiotic risks and forest holdings structure – that new investors would have to take into consideration. More in specific, hybrid poplar plantations in Italy and Spain are estimated to provide on average the potentially highest returns, but the large range of variability and the high land and opportunity costs are unlikely to make them an attractive investment for non-landowners. Eucalyptus plantations in Portugal are estimated to be the only investment where non-landowners could expect to get relatively interesting and stable returns, although a recent law reform in the country could limit new investments. Maritime pine and radiata pine plantations in Portugal and Spain present lower returns, suffering the situation of depressed stumpage prices after the 2008 economic crisis, which strongly affected the sawmilling sector.

I principali insetti parassiti della pioppicoltura italiana: aggiornamenti e prospettive

Abstract: The main insect pests affecting poplar plantations in Italy: updates and perspectives. An update of the main insect pests causing significant damage to poplar plantations in Italy is here provided. The recent introduction of a few highly dangerous invasive alien pests as well as the increasing importance of secondary pests infesting poplar trees physiologically stressed by climate change are discussed. A short comment about induced damage and possible control strategies is provided for each pest.

New dual in-growth core isotopic technique to assess the root litter carbon input to the soil

The root-derived carbon (C) input to the soil, whose quantification is often neglected because of methodological difficulties, is considered a crucial C flux for soil C dynamics and net ecosystem productivity (NEP) studies. In the present study two independent methods to quantify this C input to the soil were compared in a young forest plantation in Italy. Specifically, a mass balance approach to the soil C balance and a new dual in-growth core (IGC) isotopic technique that accounts for both root- and non-root-derived C inputs were compared. No statistically significant difference between the results obtained by the two methods was found (3.09±0.50 vs 5.30±2.92Mg C ha−1). Both estimates matched with the results obtained by other authors for similar ecosystems. The application of this new dual IGC isotopic technique has shown that the traditional IGC isotopic technique can lead to a significant overestimation (60% in the present study) of root C input to the soil as it doesn't take into account changes in the soil C isotopic signature due to factors other than root derived inputs. These include isotopic discrimination that could take place during the decomposition of original soil organic matter (SOM), the contamination due to dissolved organic C (DOC) leaching, or the C input via leaf litter. The proposed dual IGC isotope technique, taking into account the abovementioned non-root derived inputs seems to be a promising and reliable method to estimate root-derived C input to the soil in terrestrial ecosystems

Energy and economic sustainability of woodchip production by black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) plantations in Italy

Growing demand for energy has led to a rise in the price of fossil oil and an increased rate of depletion of fossil resources. This situation has generated a strong interest in the use of biofuel, and many studies have been undertaken on the worldwide potential for biofuel. Among all renewable energy sources, biomass could contribute to meeting the EU’s renewable energy targets in 2020, especially short rotation coppice (SRC). In order to evaluate the energy and economic sustainability of woodchip production by black locust SRC, an ad hoc study was undertaken and a specific calculation model was developed. Data were collected in a black locust SRC plantation site in North West Italy during the period 2006–2012. This involved an SRC duration of six years and a biomass (10Mgha−1 DM per year) harvest at the end of a cycle (six years). The results indicated that black locust plantations are very desirable from an energy point of view since the output/input ratio results are higher than 20. Unfortunately, the results are not so positive from an economic point of view. In fact, in order to obtain economic sustainability for woodchip production, the biomass price should be at least €103Mg−1DM. Consequently, woodchip production by black locust SRC is only possible with economic support for production and with optimisation of agricultural labour and biomass production.

Photosynthetic and growth responses of Populus clones Eridano and I-214 submitted to elevated Zn concentrations

The effect of two toxic levels of Zn were analysed in two poplar clones (Populus deltoides x maximowiczii — clone Eridano, and Populus x canadiensis euramericana Mönch. — clone I-214), both of which are commonly used in plantations in Italy. We examined their capacity to accumulate and tolerate toxic levels of Zn and the effect of this accumulation on plant growth and development, leaf morphology, gas-exchange and nutrient composition. Rooted cuttings were treated for three weeks in hydroponic culture with 0 (control), 1mM and 5mM zinc chloride (ZnCl2). Both clones showed Zn toxicity effects in their physiological responses, especially at 5mM [Zn], but Eridano displayed high tolerance at 1mM [Zn]. Growth and biomass production declined mainly in I-214, with a severe reduction of root growth. Biomass parameters and tolerance index (Ti) indicated a higher capacity of Eridano to tolerate toxic levels of Zn. Leaf morphological changes were observed, and appeared earlier in I-214 at 1mM [Zn], with a decline in leaf area and thickness, and an increase in leaf density. Gas-exchange parameters pointed to a drastic decrease in net photosynthesis (A), stomatal conductance (gs) and transpiration rate (E) at 5mM [Zn], although Eridano showed good tolerance at 1mM [Zn]. With increasing Zn in the nutrient solution, Zn concentration increased in all plant structures, accumulating mainly in roots, especially in Eridano. The heavy metal accumulation was similar at 1mM and 5mM [Zn] for each clone, and the capacity of both clones to take up Zn from the medium was reduced. The concentration of Zn accumulated in young leaves accounted for the decline observed in biomass, photosynthesis, Fe and chlorophyll content. In hydroponic culture with highly toxic Zn levels, Eridano showed a higher capacity of accumulation, translocation to aerial parts, and tolerance than I-214, thus appearing as a very promising clone for the phytoremediation of Zn-polluted substrates.

Cost and Productivity of Harvesting High-Value Hybrid Poplar Plantations in Italy

As the importance of hybrid poplar plantations continues to increase, these stands may soon represent a strategic source of wood products for many temperate-region countries. Financial success from growing these plantations depends on obtaining the highest value recovery at the lowest harvest cost, which has motivated a gradual shift toward mechanized harvesting. This study compared the harvesting efficiency and cost of different harvesting procedures based on manual, semimechanized, and mechanized system configurations. Overall, 25 sites were sampled with time studies. Average site size varied between 0.3 and 2.5 hectares. Total observation time amounted to 787 hours, during which 6,449 trees were harvested. Mechanized harvesting proved significantly faster and cheaper than traditional manual harvesting, allowing an average saving of about 3 €/m3 for the same tree size. Hence, mechanization may help maintain profitability when harvesting smaller trees, allowing companies to cope with current trends toward shorter rotations for increased cash flow. Semimechanized harvesting did not involve fewer work steps, nor was it less expensive than traditional manual harvesting; its only benefit was a substantial reduction of labor requirements. The concern about reduced value recovery is still the main obstacle to the extensive application of mechanized poplar harvesting.

An association between the fungus Sphaeropsis sapinea and the cone bug Gastrodes grossipes in cones of Pinus nigra in Italy

SummaryTip blight caused by Sphaeropsis sapinea is a well‐known disease in pine plantations in Italy. Austrian pine Pinus nigra, which was largely used in afforestation programmes during past decades, has recently suffered great damage from this pathogen. The incidence of the fungus in third‐year cones was investigated in four stands. The percentage of cones infected with the fungus varied from 17 to 62%. Infected cones were observed on trees lacking symptoms of the disease as well as on those showing tip blight. The possible association of S. sapinea with the cone bug Gastrodes grossipes, which inhabits mature and open cones of pines, was examined by log‐linear analysis. The cone bug was found in up to 67% of cones. Results revealed that the presence of S. sapinea and G. grossipes in pine cones was not independent; thus, a role of the insect in disseminating the fungus is hypothesized.

Top-down growth modelling: a prototype for poplar plantations in Italy

Hybrid poplar plantations are one of the most important sources of timber and wood fibres in Italy and represent a significant alternative as sustainable use of agricultural land. Effective management of such plantations requires adequate growth and yield models. In light of this, the paper presents the fundamentals of a top-down growth and yield model for hybrid poplar (I-214 clone) plantations in Italy. In the top-down approach, standing volume, basal area, or other characteristics are the primary quantities predicted and these quantities are disaggregated into size class, and, eventually, into individual tree information. The basic element of the proposed prototype is the stand basal area growth equation. Stand age, current stand basal area, and site index are considered as predictors. If the current DBH distribution is also known, a second function estimates the size-class distribution of overall stand growth, projecting the DBH distribution to the end of the considered growth period. Individual competition indices do not contribute to the explanation of the growth variation at the tree level. Prototype predictions prove to be quite accurate: they are based on readily available forest inventory data, thus extracting knowledge from the wealth of accumulated long-term observations usually carried out in forestry.