Forest research in Finland

Abstract

The article outlines progress in Finnish forest research since Lauri Ilvessalo presented his review in 1927. Some fields of research which already possessed a firm basis 70 years ago are still found to be important. A number of studies had proved the suitability of Cajander's system of forest types for forest site classification; later research has mainly confirmed the validity of its use in Finnish conditions. The National Forest Inventory first carried out in the early 1920s has resulted in a continuous monitoring of forest resources. Data are now available for a wide range of forest and environmental applications. Research has also been an essential tool in helping Finnish forestry to meet new challenges. For example, the drainage of peatland forests and improved silviculture have resulted in great increase in forest production, while advances in forest technology have made efficient and environmentally friendly timber harvesting possible in new and sometimes difficult circumstances.