Balance and Sustainability in Multiaged Stands: A Northern Conifer Case Study

Abstract

Classical silvicultural concepts of balance and sustainability in selection stands are examined using a 40-year case study in a mixed hemlock-spruce-fir stand. Although the stand initially conformed well to the target structure, deficits of poletimber and surpluses of sawtimber have since developed. Viewing stand structure in terms of area occupied by 10-year age classes, in addition to the diameter distribution, reveals important structural and species imbalances and suggests future management directions.