Chris TownsendBiggest change to our very local landscape since we moved here over 35 years ago. A big spruce plantation is being clear-felled. #Cairngorms #forestry
Peter Brown@Christownsendoutdoors I don’t think Sweden allows clear felling.
Cuilfail@peterbrown @Christownsendoutdoors it does, but you might find a different attitude towards the size of the clear fells allowed. Also more variety in silvicultural systems used. The argument here is that Scots pine is a fire climax species & clearfell/ restock mimics this natural process. Conveniently maximising income & this fostered by the 'comfortable relationship' between regulator & industry where environmental values are sacrificed (costs externalised) for private financial gain.
@peterbrown @Christownsendoutdoors yes, I know it's spruce, and that's not fire climax. This is illustrative of the disconnect between our forest practice, regulation and industry.
@ISawTheWood @peterbrown Interestingly there is a planted Scots pine wood next to this spruce plantation that had selective felling done last autumn.
@Christownsendoutdoors @peterbrown In which case there is justification of a sort if they are replanting Scots pine; but the general point carries. Our virtually ubiquitous clearfell/ restock silviculture is a brutal management style which does precious little for biodiversity goals