selvityshakkuu

Selvityshakkuu, which translates to "clearing cut" or "sanitation felling" in English, is a forestry practice involving the removal of dead, dying, diseased, or damaged trees from a forest stand. The primary objective is to improve the health and vigor of the remaining forest, thereby preventing the spread of pests and diseases, and reducing the risk of fire. It is distinct from a final harvest or shelterwood cutting, as it focuses on salvaging specific trees rather than a general regeneration or timber production strategy.

The practice is often implemented after natural disturbances such as windstorms, insect outbreaks, or severe droughts, which can create a significant number of weakened or dead trees. By removing these trees, forest managers aim to reduce competition for resources like light, water, and nutrients for the healthier trees, promoting their growth and resilience. It can also be used as a preventative measure in areas prone to specific diseases or insect infestations.

Selvityshakkuu can contribute to a more aesthetically pleasing forest by removing unsightly deadwood. However, it also has ecological implications. While removing dead trees can prevent disease spread, deadwood itself plays a crucial role in forest ecosystems by providing habitat for various organisms and contributing to nutrient cycling. Therefore, the extent and method of selvityshakkuu are often carefully considered to balance the benefits of forest health improvement with the ecological value of standing dead trees. The practice is subject to national forestry regulations and guidelines that dictate its appropriate application.