Clearcutting

Clearcutting is not a universally accepted practice. Opponents of the practice of cutting every tree within a specific area contend it degrades the environment. Forestry professionals and resource managers argue that the practice is sound if used properly.

In a report written for Tree Farmer Magazine, three extension specialists, one forestry professor, one assistant dean of a major college of forestry and a state forest health specialist agree that clearcutting is a necessary silvicultural practice. According to the article, a complete clearcut "usually creates the best conditions for regenerating stands" under certain conditions and should be used when those conditions occur.

This is opposed to a "commercial" clearcut where only trees of marketable species, size and quality are cut. "Commercial clearcutting, sometimes called high-grading, is appropriate only where nearly all trees in the stand are marketable or where the harvesting process will knock down all the unmarketable trees."

When are conditions right to consider clearcutting a forest? Here are seven conditions:

- When regenerating tree species that need full sunlight to stimulate seed sprouting and seedling growth.

- When dealing with sparse or exposed or shallow-rooted trees that are in danger of being damaged by wind.

- When trying to produce an even-aged stand.

- When regenerating stands of tree species that are dependent on wind blown seed, root suckers or cones that need fire to drop seed.

- When faced with salvaging over-mature stands and/or stands killed by insects, disease or fire.

- When converting to another tree species by planting or seeding.

- To provide habitat for wildlife species that require edge, new ground and "high-density, even-aged stands".

Further Reading on the Clearcutting Debate:

Clearcutting and the United States Forest Service
A report for Congress on clearcutting on the National Forests.

Clearcutting - Myths and Facts
A clearcutting report by the West Virginia University Extension Service.