Long-term aspects of nutrient loss from forest soils and eco-systems

Authors: J.A. Adams
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1978, Issue N.Z.J.For. 23(1) 1978, pp 10-20, May 1978
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

Abstract: Examination of common forest management practices shows that all have some impact on soil and ecosystem resources, with consequent implications for long-term site productivity. Nutrient gains may occur in the case of fertiliser additions, or nutrient losses as in most logging and site preparation practices. Nutrient losses are likely to be most significant in low-nutrient ecosystems such as are found on strongly weathered and leached soils. The routine adoption of maintenance fertiliser programmes in forest stands is proposed to replace nutrients removed during logging. Such fertiliser applications would help maintain long-term site productivity and avoid an otherwise inevitable future decline in crop yield.