Structure and utilisation of forest resource potential of Scots Pine stands in the Volyn Polissya

The relevance of the research was driven by the necessity for the rational use of the forest resource potential of Scots pine stands in the Volyn Polissya, one of the most forested regions of Ukraine with significant ecological, economic, and social importance. The aim of the study was to examine the stand structure and analyse the utilisation of Scots pine stands in the Volyn Polissya, as well as to explore ways to optimise forest management processes in the region. A comprehensive analysis of the spatial and age structure, as well as the productivity of Scots pine stands in the Volyn Polissya region, was carried out, with an assessment of timber stock utilisation by type of felling. It was found that approximately 64% of forested areas in the study region were covered by Scots pine stands. Artificial pine stands prevailed in terms of area, accounting for over 52%. The most widespread were middle-aged stands, which could be explained by active post-war forest regeneration. The majority of pine stands grew in fresh and moist subor forests, which were optimal for the species' development. The average annual volume of Scots pine timber harvested by forest enterprises in the region amounted to 1.9 million m3, with the majority obtained through principal fellings and sanitary cuttings. Among thinnings, a significant share of timber harvesting came from commercial thinning (age of 41-70). The proportion of other types of felling, both related and unrelated to forest management, ranged from 1 to 2%. The average volume of harvested Scots pine timber per hectare ranged from 2 m3 ha-1 for pre-commercial thinning (age of 11-20) to 173 m3 ha-1 for principal fellings. The results of the study may be used to improve forest management practices and to formulate a strategy for the sustainable development of forestry in the Volyn Polissya