Korpustetthet

Korpustetthet refers to the process of systematically removing or reducing the volume of a forest’s standing timber, typically through selective logging or clear-cutting. The term originates from Norwegian (*korpus* meaning "body" or "mass" and *tetthet* meaning "density"), reflecting its focus on altering the density of forest biomass. This practice is commonly employed in sustainable forestry to manage tree growth, promote regeneration, and maintain ecological balance.

The technique involves thinning out certain trees while leaving others to grow more robustly. This can be done for various purposes, including improving timber quality, reducing fire risks, or enhancing biodiversity by creating gaps that allow sunlight to reach the forest floor. Korpustetthet is often contrasted with clear-cutting, which involves removing all trees in a designated area, as it is generally considered less disruptive to forest ecosystems when applied selectively.

In Scandinavian forestry, korpustetthet is a key component of *selvstendig skogbruk* (self-sustaining forestry), a method that prioritizes long-term ecological and economic viability. By controlling tree density, foresters aim to optimize growth rates while minimizing environmental impact. The practice is also used in other temperate and boreal regions, where similar principles of selective thinning are applied to maintain healthy forests.

Critics argue that even selective thinning can disrupt natural forest dynamics, particularly if overdone. Proponents, however, emphasize its role in promoting resilient, mixed-age forests that better withstand pests, diseases, and climate change. Proper implementation requires careful planning, often involving ecological assessments and adherence to regional forestry guidelines.