The evolution of logging practices could benefit "biodiversity": scientific reflexions on the ONF Guide for forest reconstruction following the storm

Abstract

A conservation based forest management implies the evolution of timber harvesting practices. The ONF Guide for forest reconstruction (2001) defines the harvesting scheme in windstorm areas disturbed in 1999. We explain why we think two of these guidelines, namely, the retention in cutting areas of large old trees and of unharvested tree crowns, could counteract the negative effects of large cuts on biodiversity - peculiarly on forest species. We finally discuss the potential applications of these guidelines in ordinary forest harvesting.