Valikohakkuu

Valikohakkuu is a Finnish term referring to selective logging, a forestry practice where only certain trees are removed from a forest stand. This method differs from clear-cutting, which involves removing all trees in an area, or shelterwood cutting, where trees are removed in stages over time to promote natural regeneration. In valikohakkuu, the selection of trees for removal is based on criteria such as species, age, size, health, and silvicultural objectives.

The primary goals of valikohakkuu are to improve the overall health and growth of the remaining forest, to harvest timber resources sustainably, and to maintain biodiversity. Trees chosen for removal might be mature, diseased, damaged, or those that are competing excessively with more valuable specimens. This selective removal aims to create space for the remaining trees to grow larger and faster, enhancing timber quality and yield in the long run. It also helps to retain structural diversity within the forest, providing habitat for various species.

Valikohakkuu can be implemented in different ways, often categorized by the size and characteristics of the trees being removed. For example, a 'thinning' operation might remove smaller, less desirable trees to promote the growth of larger ones, while a 'selection felling' might focus on removing specific mature or overmature trees. The success of valikohakkuu depends on careful planning, skilled execution, and a thorough understanding of forest ecology and silvicultural principles. It is a widely used practice in sustainable forest management in Finland and other Nordic countries.