Quelques résultats prometteurs pour une sylviculture de l'aulne glutineux en wallonie

Abstract

In Belgium, black alder is well known for its ecological functions, but is generally considered as a secondary species without any true economic value. The present study, based on data pertaining to 166 plots, aims at evaluating the potential of black alder silviculture in the Walloon forest (Southern Belgium). We successively analysed dominant height growth, dominant girth growth and solid stem volume over time. It appears that by controlling competition within stands it should be possible to produce quality, 150-cm girth logs within 50-100 years, depending on the level of productivity. The German tables of Mitscherlich (in Schöber, 1975) seem to be most suitable for describing the growth parameters of the Belgian alder stands over time and black alder stand production can be estimated at 3 to 9 m3/ha/year according to site classes. We can conclude that black alder silviculture can be a viable economic activity.