Skogsbruk

Skogsbruk, or forestry, is the management of forested landscapes to produce wood and other forest products while maintaining the forests’ ecological functions. It encompasses planning, silvicultural treatments, harvesting, and regeneration, with an emphasis on sustainable yield that supports current and future uses. In regions with extensive forests, skogsbruk also seeks to preserve biodiversity, protect soil and water resources, and retain recreational and cultural values.

Core elements include silviculture and rotation planning, thinning, and pest and wildfire management. Silvicultural systems range from continuous cover forestry to even-aged schemes such as clear-cutting with regeneration. Management decisions—such as harvest intensity, species composition, and age structure—consider site conditions, market demand, and long-term sustainability. Reforestation or natural regeneration is essential to maintain forest cover and productive capacity over successive generations.

Forests provide services beyond timber, including carbon sequestration, wildlife habitat, soil and water protection, and opportunities for recreation. Sustainable forest management balances timber production with biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. Certification schemes like FSC and PEFC are used to verify practices and facilitate market access in many regions.

Ownership structures vary, but forests are commonly held by private individuals, forestry companies, and public or cooperative entities. National policies guide harvest planning, protected areas, and reforestation obligations, with monitoring and enforcement intended to sustain forest values over generations.

Skogsbruk faces challenges from climate change, pests, and market fluctuations, prompting ongoing research and adaptive management.