Infodoc : Sciences, Techniques et Culture

This method of applying individual-tree selection silviculture to hardwood stands combines silvicultural considerations with financial maturity guidelines into a tree-marking system. To develop this system it was necessary to determine rates of return based on 4/4 lumber, for many of the important appalachian species. Trees were viewed as capital investments that should be liquidated when they fail to yield an acceptable rate of return. Present values of sawlogsize trees were determined by species, size, and log grades. Future values-in 10 years-were based on growth rates and projected changes in log grade. Actual stumpage values were determined, working back from standard lumber prices by deducting conversion costs. The first consideration in appraising a stand for marking is to ma[...]

This method of applying individual-tree selection silviculture to hardwood stands combines silvicultural considerations with financial maturity guidelines into a tree-marking system. To develop this system it was necessary to determine rates of return based on 4/4 lumber, for many of the important appalachian species. Trees were viewed as capital investments that should be liquidated when they fail to yield an acceptable rate of return. Present values of sawlogsize trees were determined by species, size, and log grades. Future values-in 10 years-were based on growth rates and projected changes in log grade. Actual stumpage values were determined, working back from standard lumber prices by deducting conversion costs. The first consideration in appraising a stand for marking is to mark for removal the poor-quality, poor-risk, and short-lived trees, then mark the good trees according to their rate of return. Tree sizes to mark were established for 2-, 4-, and
6-percent return rates. Different rates were determined by site-quality classes. Guidelines were established for satisfactory residual basal areas, and examples ares given of adjustments sometimes necessary in unmanaged stands where it may nt be possible with the rate of return chosen to makea profitable cut and leave a satisfactorily stocked stand. "(Résumé des auteurs)".