Abstract
Integrating biodiversity conservation and biomass production in boreal forest is not only a challenge, but also a pressing need. Even-aged forestry with intermediate harvest of small-diameter trees (i.e. thinning from below) dominates sustained yield silviculture not only in Scandinavia, but also in vast areas of the Baltic States, Russia and North America, with the potential to diminish niche diversity at the global scale. Yet, little is known about the importance of post-harvest silviculture to secure the long-term persistence and conservation value of biodiversity in young thinning-stage stands. Here, we aim to improve this situation in close dialogue with forest managers, and together (1) assess how thinning-induced variation in structural stand complexity is linked to species composition and demographic rates of birds, invertebrates and lichens, (2) design and assess the impact of novel but feasible understory vegetation management on functional diversity and (3) develop models that provide guidance for the implementation of cost-effective and viable conservation measures at the landscape scale. We are particularly interested to test if management strategies aimed at promoting ecosystem functioning also benefit species of conservation concern. This knowledge needs to be generated through strategic cooperation within forest communities to deliver conservation strategies with a high degree of social legitimacy that is commonly missing.
Sweden