The Forest Ecosystem of Southeast Alaska

The Forest Ecosystem of Southeast Alaska
Author: John S. Hard
Publisher:
Total Pages: 40
Release: 1974
Genre: Forest ecology
ISBN:

Southeast Alaska's remaining virgin forests have few insect pests. The black-headed budworm and the hemlock sawfly, both western hemlock defoliators, are the most important species. They kill some trees, kill tops in others, and cause growth loss, but stands survive their attacks. Extensive conversion of virgin stands to second growth may result in an increase in pest problems as it has in similar areas such as coastal British Columbia. ‍?‍?Widespread use of insecticides to control major outbreaks is not practical because of risk of contaminating salmon-spawning and trout-rearing streams; but insecticide use may be justified in local, high value areas. Weather, diseases, and parasites control outbreaks naturally. Damage-prone stands should be identified and harvested before insect attack or salvage-logged following outbreaks. Ideally, second-growth stands should be managed for resistance to insect pests.

Environmental Issues in Pacific Northwest Forest Management

Environmental Issues in Pacific Northwest Forest Management
Author: National Research Council
Publisher: National Academies Press
Total Pages: 279
Release: 2000-07-14
Genre: Technology & Engineering
ISBN: 0309176158

People are demanding more of the goods, services, and amenities provided by the forests of the Pacific Northwest, but the finiteness of the supply has become clear. This issue involves complex questions of biology, economics, social values, community life, and federal intervention. Forests of the Pacific Northwest explains that economic and aesthetic benefits can be sustained through new approaches to management, proposes general goals for forest management, and discusses strategies for achieving them. Recommendations address restoration of damaged areas, management for multiple uses, dispute resolution, and federal authority. The volume explores the market role of Pacific Northwest wood products and looks at the implications if other regions should be expected to make up for reduced timber harvests. The book also reviews the health of the forested ecosystems of the region, evaluating the effects of past forest use patterns and management practices. It discusses the biological importance, social significance, and management of old-growth as well as late-succession forests. This volume will be of interest to public officials, policymakers, the forest products industry, environmental advocates, researchers, and concerned residents.