skogtyper

Skogtyper, or forest types, is a term used in forestry to categorize forests into distinct types based on ecological and management characteristics. In Swedish practice, a skogstyp is typically defined by the dominant tree species, the age structure and density of the stand, site productivity, and historical management or disturbance patterns. The purpose is to support inventory, planning, and policy decisions by providing a common language for describing forest composition and potential yields.

Classification generally distinguishes between coniferous, broadleaf, and mixed forests. Within coniferous forests, common skogstyper include pine-dominated stands (Pinus sylvestris) and spruce-dominated stands (Picea abies), often with varying degrees of birch or other broadleaves in the understory. Mixed forests combine conifers with broadleaf trees such as birch (Betula spp.) or aspen (Populus tremula), while deciduous or broadleaf forests may be birch, oak, or other regional species. Forest types are also described by stand age classes (young, middle-aged, mature, old-growth) and by site productivity or site index, which help to estimate growth potential and harvest scheduling.

Skogtyper are used in national forest inventories, forest management plans, and ecological assessments to model growth, plan silvicultural treatments, and analyze biodiversity and climate resilience. They are dynamic, changing with natural succession, management actions, and disturbances such as wind storms, pests, and fire.