Rotröjning

"Rotröjning" is a forestry practice commonly used in Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, to maintain sustainable forest management. The term refers to the selective removal of dead, diseased, or less productive trees within a forest stand. The main goal of rotröjning is to promote forest health, improve growth conditions for remaining trees, and ensure biodiversity by creating a more diverse and resilient forest structure.

This practice typically involves carefully cutting down individual trees or groups of trees while leaving healthier, more valuable specimens untouched. By removing competing or unproductive trees, rotröjning increases the availability of nutrients, light, and space for the remaining trees, which can lead to faster growth and higher-quality timber. The process also helps reduce the spread of pests and diseases by eliminating vulnerable or infected trees early.

Rotröjning is usually performed at an early stage of forest development, often during the sapling or young stand phase. It is part of an integrated forest management approach that balances economic, ecological, and social objectives. The timing, intensity, and method of rotröjning vary depending on specific environmental conditions and management goals.

Environmental benefits of rotröjning include maintaining habitat heterogeneity and promoting species diversity. It also supports forest resilience amid climate change by fostering adaptable, robust ecosystems. However, careful planning is essential to avoid excessive removal that could negatively impact soil stability or biodiversity.

Overall, rotröjning is considered an important silvicultural tool for sustainable forest conservation, contributing to the productive and ecological health of forests over the long term.