Ecological Silviculture of Acadian Spruce-fir Forests

Ecological silviculture uses knowledge of natural disturbance dynamics to design and inform the application of silvicultural systems. All evidence suggests that Acadian spruce-fir ecosystems are driven by small-scale gap dynamics with an approximate 1% frequency (100-year return interval). Some kind of multi-aged system is essential; irregular shelterwoods are the most operationally feasible, but close emulation of natural patterns requires a selection system with many more cohorts. The importance of permanent structural retention and downed wood conservation are described.