Overfelled

Overfelled is a term used in forestry to describe the practice of harvesting timber at a rate that exceeds the natural regrowth capacity of the forest. This can lead to a decline in forest health, reduced biodiversity, and long-term ecological damage. When forests are overfelled, it can result in soil erosion, increased susceptibility to pests and diseases, and a decrease in the forest's ability to sequester carbon.

The consequences of overfelling can be significant and far-reaching. Economically, it can lead to a short-term increase in timber supply followed by a long-term scarcity, impacting industries that rely on wood products. Environmentally, overfelled areas may struggle to support wildlife that depends on mature forest ecosystems. Socially, it can affect communities that rely on forests for recreation, cultural practices, or as a source of non-timber forest products.

Sustainable forestry practices aim to prevent overfelling by managing timber harvesting based on scientific assessments of forest growth rates and ecological needs. These practices often involve selective logging, reforestation efforts, and ensuring that harvesting levels do not deplete the forest's resources faster than they can regenerate. Monitoring forest health and timber yields is crucial to maintaining a balance between resource utilization and ecological preservation.