New Super Forests from Ancient Oaks

[SimonHS]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-60617810

 

[ATpro]

Folks complain about plantation pines but they are a huge factor in sequestering atmospheric
carbon. With the BMP setbacks biodiversity can be maintain and water quality greatly improved.

Many in the US southeast that have had plantation stands of loblolly pines are opting to allow their forest to regenerate naturally or planting a biodiversity forest which supports all forms of wildlife.

The advantage is pup hardwood brings a better price than pine pup, Land lease for hunting right is now very profitable, and it provides an income between manage cuts which makes up for the loss of revenue for thinning operations in plantation pines. Hardwood Logs are much more valuable than Pine Logs. The biodiversity forest is less likely to fall victim to catastrophic disease or insect damage.
I have been encouraging biodiversity forest for forest I have managed for clients for 30 years and now they have reaped the benefits.

 

[ATpro]

Expanding on the biodiversity forest therm, the idea is to regenerate a sustainable natural forest that is resistant to pest and disease. Nature sorted this out long ago by replacement and longevity. A good example as in conifers for the US Southeast. The predominant conifer planted here is the loblolly pine, a fast growing pine but is susceptible to fire, pest, disease and has a shorter life span than other conifers. Great for return profits short term but it will get replaced through natural selection by nature if nature takes her course. Here in the southeast hardwood and longleaf pine was the king 150 years ago because of longevity and pest and disease resistance. Natural Selection plays a role in a natural forest no matter where on earth the forest exist.