Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) as a potential response to challenges facing Aotearoa New Zealand

Authors: Yvette Dickinson, Sebastian Klinger, Tim Payn, Thomas Knoke and Serajis Salekin
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2025, Issue N.Z.J.For. 69(4) 2025, pp Pages 11-19, Feb 2025
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Production forestry in New Zealand is undergoing a shift in the face of social, economic and environmental pressures. Technological developments such as the use of automation and precision forestry, artificial intelligence (AI) and big data are presenting opportunities for forestry that will allow us to respond to these challenges in ways not tried before. One proposed response to these challenges and opportunities is the development of Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) systems fit for New Zealand’s context. CCF is a suite of forestry systems aimed at providing multiple benefits by maintaining a cloak of forest over the land in the long term, while still allowing for timber harvest. CCF may provide multiple products and services, with a lower environmental impact than conventional forestry systems. While it has been successfully applied in the northern hemisphere for some time, CCF will require adapting for our local needs, species and environment if it is to be successful. There are also common misconceptions and confusions held by both foresters and the general public, which are hindering our ability to develop and apply CCF at scale in New Zealand. This paper attempts to address some of the most common confusions by describing what CCF is and how it differs from other silvicultural systems. While CCF is more complex than current forestry systems and implementation is more challenging, there is great potential for economically viable CCF systems in both exotic and native forests in New Zealand. CCF may be particularly attractive in locations where existing clearfell systems are no longer environmentally acceptable and have lost social licence. A number of knowledge gaps have also been identified, including the need to develop site-specific or place-based silvicultural systems, and demonstration sites.

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