FOREST RESOURCES OF THE TULCHYN FORESTRY UNIT AND SPECIFICS OF THEIR USING

This scientific article presents information regarding the status and structure of the forest fund managed by the Tulchyn Forestry Enterprise, as well as the specifics of its forest resource utilization. The enterprise’s forest lands are located in the central-southern part of the Vinnytsia region. The study examines the distribution of forests by category and assesses timber stocks – specifically those harvested during final felling (harvesting for timber production) as well as silvicultural operations (forest tending and improvement measures). The research indicates that the total area of the forestry enterprise currently stands at 8,850.6 hectares. Approximately one-third of this area (30,534.1 hectares) consists of commercial (exploitable) forests. In recent years, the enterprise has harvested an average of approximately 95,000 cubic meters of timber annually. Of this, 67,500 cubic meters consisted of industrial timber (roundwood), representing a significant share (71.5%). During the previous revision period, the allowable annual cut (AAC) was approximately 77,400 cubic meters, with an utilization rate of 92.3%. This high rate is attributed to unscheduled sanitary felling carried out in spruce stands due to their deteriorating condition and widespread dieback. Timber harvested during final felling and silvicultural operations is primarily extracted in the form of roundwood. A combined method is predominantly used for intermediate (tending) felling. The total volume of standing deadwood is estimated at approximately 56,000 cubic meters. The area subjected to sanitary felling was insignificant, amounting to only 9.6 hectares. An analysis of the condition and structure of the forest resources within the Tulchyn Forestry Enterprise indicates a high standard of forest management. This is evidenced by the high efficiency of forest stand cultivation and the accumulation of substantial reserves of commercial timber; a low proportion of forests exhibiting significant dieback or degradation; a high rate of utilization of the allowable annual cut; and significant volumes of silvicultural thinning (tending felling) carried out.