Optimizing any-aged management of mixed-species stands: II. Effects of decision criteria

Abstract

The effects of maximum present value and maximum volume objectives on the efficiencies of alternative silvicultural systems are determined by solving any-aged management problems for mixed-conifer stands in the N Rocky Mountains. Optimal transition regimes for understocked stands include clearcutting and planting western white pine Pinus monticola, a high-value, fast-growting species. With a maximum merchantable volume objective, 2 types of management emerge as optimal: even-aged plantation management and an uneven-aged shelterwood system are both capable of producing the same high level of yield indefinitely. Both types of management rely on a series of thinnings to grow the most vigorous crop trees into the largest size classes. The shelterwood system ensures that adequate natural regeneration is established when the crop trees are harvested. -from Authors