metsahooldust

Metsähooldus, often referred to as metsänhoito, is the planned care and management of forests to maintain their health, productivity and ecological values while providing timber and other ecosystem services. It involves defining management objectives, planning regeneration methods, and scheduling silvicultural operations over the forest rotation to meet long-term goals.

Core practices include tending operations such as thinning (harvennus) to improve growth conditions for remaining trees, pruning, and planting or seeding for regeneration. Site preparation after harvest, protection of soil and water, pest and disease monitoring and control, and measures to support biodiversity are also part of standard metsähooldus. Retaining biodiversity-friendly structures, such as seed trees or deadwood, and implementing measures to reduce erosion or nutrient loss are commonly emphasized.

The objectives of metsähooldus are to balance timber production with ecological and social values. This includes sustainable yield, soil and water protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. Sustainable management plans often specify rotation ages, species composition, and regeneration methods, with consideration for long-term productivity and adaptability to changing conditions.

Regulation and governance vary by country but generally involve forest laws, management plans, and licensing for harvesting. Certification schemes like FSC and PEFC promote responsible forestry practices. In Finland and other Nordic countries, state and private forest owners implement metsähooldus within a framework designed to safeguard ecological integrity while supporting economic use of forest resources.