Old-growth: What is it?

Abstract

Old-growth has been used and understood by foresters and ecologists for a long time. The term implies that the organism must be old, becoming overmature, senescent, slow growing, and declining in vigor. But the precise characteristics and attributes of the term are not identified. In recent years, the term has been used in diverse contexts and often in a value-laden manner. This causes confusion regarding exactly what is meant by old-growth and clouds debates about the management and conservation of the forests to which the term refers. Foresters and ecologists should consider taking the lead in defining the term and monitoring its use.