Päärihakkuut

Päärihakkuut, or final felling, is a term used in Finnish forestry to describe the harvesting of a forest stand when it has reached its predetermined economic maturity. This is the final stage of forest management for a particular area, after which the land is typically prepared for reforestation. The decision to carry out a päärihakkuu is based on several factors, including the age, species, size, and market value of the trees. Forest owners and managers consider ecological aspects as well, aiming to balance timber production with the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services.

The process of päärihakkuu involves careful planning and execution. It is often preceded by intermediate cuttings, such as thinning, which are carried out to improve the growth and quality of the remaining trees. When the trees reach the optimal size and quality for harvesting, a päärihakkuu is scheduled. Modern forestry practices emphasize sustainable methods to minimize the environmental impact of harvesting. This can include considerations for soil protection, leaving buffer zones along waterways, and preserving valuable habitats for wildlife.

Following the päärihakkuu, the forest area is typically managed for regeneration. This might involve natural regeneration from seeds of surrounding trees or artificial regeneration through planting seedlings. The goal of regeneration is to establish a new forest stand that will grow and mature over time, eventually leading to future päärihakkuut. The economic and ecological objectives of forest management guide the entire cycle, from regeneration to final felling.