A perspective of the eucalypt forests: their characteristics and role in wood production.

Authors: R. G. Florence
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1983, Issue N.Z.J.For. 28(3) 1983, pp 372-393, Nov 1983
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

---

Abstract: Despite the low yields obtained from them, the eucalypt forests have contributed substantially to Australia's development. During the post-war decades of rapid economic growth, sawlog availability has been run down in order to service the high level of wood demand, with the anticipation that the softwood plantation programme would progressively take over the major wood supply role. As this happens it will be possible to formulate long-term policies and strategies for the eucalypt forests.

It is argued in this paper that there will be advantages in maintaining a strong and stable forest products industry based on the eucalpyt forests. This will require, in turn, a more accept-able balance between wood production and conservation of natural environments than has been possible in the past. It will also be essential to take account of the biological nature of the eucalypt, and to develop forest use strategies and practices which will maintain the stability of the eucalypt forest ecosystem.

---