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IMPACT OF THINNING REGIME ON FINANCIAL VALUE OF SILVER BIRCH STAND IN HEMIBOREAL FORESTS: POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
Abstract
Share of birch is increasing in hemiboreal forests mainly due to its superior natural regeneration capabilities and afforestation of abandoned agricultural lands. It is more wind-firm than Norway spruce, thus it could be even more favoured in context of climate changes, linked to worsening wind climate in this region. Historically, target species of forest management had been coniferous trees. Therefore, aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of thinning regime on net present value of birch stands. Sample plots (size 500m2) were established in 18 birch stands at the age of 21 to 46 years and the empirical data on stand inventory parameters (height, diameter at breast height, basal area) in those stands compared to the results of growth model. No significant differences were detected, thus, the model was further used to analyse the impact of thinning regime on stand parameters across the rotation period. Prices of the assortments were obtained from Central Statistical Bureau of Latvia, assortment structure from local models, 3% interest rate was used. Commercial thinning had significant positive economic effect (increase by 37±11.9 %) on net present value of the stand. Without thinning the yield in final harvest was statistically significantly greater, but the mean diameter of trees ? smaller. The results of modelling suggested that higher net present value in fertile sites could be obtained by planting of birch and precommercial thinning at the age of five rather that than currently advised 15 years. This would also potentially improve this wind-stability of the trees. The modelled net present value was similar if two commercial thinning regimes during the rotation period of birch: two with higher intensity or four to five thinnings with lower intensity. Thus the consideration of potential impact of wind damages could be the deciding factor in selection of stand management regime.
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