Infodoc : Sciences, Techniques et Culture

In this article, the topic of extended rotation stands is contemplated from several angles so as to consider the practical aspects seen from the point of view of the naturalist and manager, and the economic aspects. Two regions were investigated: Alsace and Rhône Alps. Guidelines for establishing extended rotation stands in mountain forests were identified on the basis of the survey conducted among foresters and naturalists. The results indicate that the stands chosen should be the most mature ones, located on a variety of sites and avoiding any interference with logging operations. An assessment of the costs of extended rotation schemes in high forests was performed for beech trees in Alsace. The figures obtained are directly dependent on the assumptions used and on the values of the[...]

In this article, the topic of extended rotation stands is contemplated from several angles so as to consider the practical aspects seen from the point of view of the naturalist and manager, and the economic aspects. Two regions were investigated: Alsace and Rhône Alps. Guidelines for establishing extended rotation stands in mountain forests were identified on the basis of the survey conducted among foresters and naturalists. The results indicate that the stands chosen should be the most mature ones, located on a variety of sites and avoiding any interference with logging operations. An assessment of the costs of extended rotation schemes in high forests was performed for beech trees in Alsace. The figures obtained are directly dependent on the assumptions used and on the values of the parameters. These figures may usefully serve to compare different investment plans but their relevance is modest particularly since ecological gains are not considered.
Le thème des îlots de sénescence est ici traité sous plusieurs angles, de façon à considérer ses aspects pratiques, du point de vue naturaliste et gestionnaire, et économiques. Deux régions sont concernées : l’Alsace et Rhône-Alpes. La recherche de lignes directrices pour la mise en place d’îlots de sénescence en forêt de montagne s’est faite au travers d’une enquête auprès de gestionnaires forestiers et de naturalistes. Selon les résultats obtenus, les îlots devraient être placés prioritairement dans les peuplements les plus matures, en cherchant à diversifier les stations, et en évitant la gêne sur l’exploitation. Une évaluation du coût des îlots de sénescence en futaie régulière a été réalisée pour des hêtraies alsaciennes. Les chiffres obtenus dépendent directement des hypothèses réalisées et des valeurs des paramètres. Ils permettent surtout de comparer différents investissements et il convient de les relativiser, notamment au regard du gain écologique, non considéré ici.