Root Rot and Stem Decay Following Commercial Thinning in Western Hemlock and Guidelines for Reducing Losses

Abstract

Significant losses can occur following thinning in western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla (Raf.) Sarg.) if stump protection is not practised and attention is not given to minimizing stem and root injuries. As many as 12 new Fomes annosus root rot centers per hectare were created by a low thinning that removed only about 250 trees, when stumps were not treated. An annual loss to decay of 0.75% of the gross volume was recorded in trees severely injured during logging. Procedures for reducing losses to decay are given.