Slash retention a viable option insure sustained site productivity

Authors: J.M. Balneaves, W.J. Dyck
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1992, Issue N.Z.J.For. 37(1) 1992, pp 13-16, May 1992
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: The impact of logging and site preparation on nutrient reserves on the planting site and the likely consequences of this on long-term site productivity are discussed. New material on the impact of logging and windrowing on site nutrients on the stony Lismore soils on the Canterbury Plains is presented. Harvesting the previous crop removed 5% of total N and 26% of available P from the site. Windrowing increased this loss to 40% and 62%, respectively. To avoid such losses, which will inevitably result in a marked decline in forest productivity, as much slash as possible should be retained on site. Future research should concentrate on maintaining existing trials to determine long-term trends, critically evaluating logging practices, and developing appropriate site-preparation tools to restore maximum productivity to the site while ensuring slash retention to achieve nutrient recycling.

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