Ohutustoimingud

Ohutustoimingud, which translates to "thinning operations" in English, are a crucial part of forest management. These practices involve the selective removal of trees from a stand to improve the growth, health, and quality of the remaining trees. The primary goals of thinning are to reduce competition for resources such as light, water, and nutrients, and to remove undesirable or damaged trees.

There are several types of thinning operations. High thinning, also known as crown thinning, involves removing trees from the upper canopy to allow more light to reach the lower canopy. Low thinning, or mechanical thinning, removes trees from the lower strata of the forest, often focusing on smaller, suppressed trees. Thinning from below focuses on removing the smallest and least vigorous trees, while thinning from above targets the largest and most dominant trees. Selection thinning involves removing trees based on a variety of criteria, including size, species, health, and spacing, aiming to create a more diverse and resilient forest structure.

The timing and intensity of thinning operations are critical. They are typically carried out in young or middle-aged forests, but can also be applied to older stands. The frequency and extent of thinning depend on the forest type, site conditions, and management objectives. Proper thinning can lead to increased timber production, enhanced wildlife habitat, improved forest health, and reduced risk of pest outbreaks and wildfires. It is an investment in the long-term productivity and sustainability of forest ecosystems.