Abstract
The aim with this project is to evaluate ecological effects and cost efficiency of two different ecological restorations methods used in low-quality voluntary forest set-asides (frivilliga avsättningar): A) prescribed burning and B) selective cutting conducted to resemble gap-dynamics. We will evaluate how these two restoration methods (which are currently developed and used in Swedish forestry) influence a variety of organism groups (e.g. insects, fungi, bryophytes, vascular plants and small mammals. In addition, we will determine how saproxylic organisms respond to different types of dead wood produced for restoration purposes. The project has been developed in close collaboration with representatives for the forest company Holmen Skog based on the principles that the project should: 1) be based on the current knowledge of conservation values of different forest features; 2) allow for a quantitative evaluation of conservation values of different treatments; 3) Be easily conducted with today?s technique; 4) be cost neutral/cost efficient. The reason for focusing on these principles is to enable a rapid application of these restorations measures in various forest habitats if they are found effective. The results from this project will influence the management not only of voluntary set-asides (frivilliga avsättningar) but will also be highly relevant for reserve management and landscape planning in forestry. The projekt will be conducted in 30 stands in northern Sweden.
Sweden