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Site Preparation in New Zealand
Authors: C.G.R. ChavassePublication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1969, Issue N.Z.J.For. 14(2) 1969, pp 136-149, Aug 1969
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry
Abstract: Methods of site preparation (mainly for afforestation with exotic conifers) in New Zealand, discussed at a Forest Research Institute Symposium held in March 1969, are described, together with special problems of re-establishment after clearfelling. Methods include felling with hand tools, mechanical clearing by tractors with or without ancillary equipment, the value and use of desiccants and arboricides and techniques for their application, and the use of fire. These are related to the national programme for the next 30 years in terms of types of terrain and vegetational cover. Costs are examined, and the economic relationship of site preparation to subsequent operations and yields is discussed. Some aspects of New Zealand practice, especially in mechanical clearing and in the use of fire, are compared with Australian methods, and possibilities for improvement are noted, together with suggestions for useful avenues for research.