Kokonaispidäke

Kokonaispidäke, which translates to "overall holder" or "total retainer" in English, is a term used in Finnish forestry to describe a concept related to sustainable forest management. It refers to the practice of ensuring that a certain proportion of the total timber volume within a forest stand is deliberately left unharvested. This retained timber serves various ecological purposes, contributing to biodiversity and long-term forest health.

The rationale behind kokonaispidäke is that even in actively managed forests, some standing trees and deadwood are crucial for supporting a wide range of species, including insects, fungi, birds, and mammals. These retained trees can act as habitat, food sources, and breeding sites for organisms that might otherwise struggle to survive in a clear-cut or heavily thinned forest. Furthermore, leaving a portion of the timber contributes to nutrient cycling and soil stability.

The specific percentage or volume of timber to be retained under the kokonaispidäke principle can vary depending on the forest type, management objectives, and regulatory guidelines. It is a proactive approach that aims to balance timber production with ecological preservation, recognizing that a healthy forest ecosystem is essential for sustained productivity and resilience in the long run. This concept is an integral part of modern, multifunctional forestry practices in Finland.