Overfelling

Overfelling is a term used to describe the practice of harvesting timber at a rate that exceeds the forest's ability to regenerate naturally. This unsustainable logging approach leads to a depletion of forest resources, impacting biodiversity, soil health, and water cycles. When forests are overfelled, the removal of trees outpaces their regrowth, resulting in a net loss of forest cover over time. This can transform once-dense woodlands into sparse landscapes or even clearings, leaving behind a degraded ecosystem.

The consequences of overfelling are far-reaching. It can cause soil erosion as tree roots no longer bind the soil, leading to sedimentation in rivers and streams. Wildlife habitats are destroyed, endangering numerous species and reducing biodiversity. Furthermore, forests play a crucial role in regulating climate by absorbing carbon dioxide; their removal exacerbates climate change. Overfelling can also disrupt local weather patterns and reduce water availability. Sustainable forestry practices, which involve careful planning, selective harvesting, and reforestation efforts, are essential to prevent the detrimental effects of overfelling and ensure the long-term health and productivity of forests.