Lesson 1 – Regeneration Methods Forest Science I Unit 6 – Reforestation Original by Jonathan H. Stribling December 3, 2001 Modified by Georgia Agriculture Education Curriculum Office July 2004 And CTAE Resource Network, 2010
Two Basic Types of Regeneration Natural Artificial
Natural Regeneration Advantages: Low cost Less labor and equipment required Good early root development Minimal visual impact Less Soil erosion
Natural Regeneration Disadvantages Less Control of Spacing and Stocking Generally lower yield No genetic improvement No increased disease resistance Possible Pre-commercial thinning required
Methods of Natural Regeneration Seedtree Shelterwood
Seed Tree Most popular natural regeneration method Leave 6-8 (10) trees per acre to reseed Trees left need to be evenly distributed over area to be regenerated Disadvantage -- Often cannot get a logger to come back for such a light volume of wood
Shelter Wood Leaves more trees than seed tree (25-60) Must plan ahead Must control pioneer species in all regeneration methods (start 5 yrs or so before shelter wood cut. Careful selection in deciding which trees to leave
Artificial Reforestation Clearcut followed by either planting seedlings or direct seeding.
Artificial Reforestation Advantages Control of Spacing and Stocking Use of Genetically Improved Seedlings Disease Resistant Seedlings Allows for Change in Species
Artificial Reforestation Disadvantages Homogenous Stand – More Susceptible Visually Displeasing to Some People Some political action groups rally against artificial methods of reforestation.
Clear Cutting Precedes planting seedlings or direct seeding Cuts basically all timber off property
Artificial Regeneration Planting Seedlings Hoedad Dibble Machine An experienced planter may plant 1000 seedlings per day manually!!!!!
Reforestation Method Chosen will primarily depend on landowner objectives!!