Effects of Timber Management on Ecological Functions of Forest Wetlands, 1995 Environmental Conference Proceedings
James P. Shepard
NCASI
Forest wetlands are valued for the many ecological functions they perform. They are also important sources of wood for the forest products industry. Forest wetlands can be managed for timber production while protecting valuable ecological functions. This paper reviews the literature on effects of timber management on ecological functions in wetlands. Timber management affects wetland functions primarily through its manipulation of vegetation species composition and structure. Effects of forest management are most pronounced immediately following disturbances such as timber harvesting. Effects are generally brief for hydrological and biogeochemical functions, but can be more long-lasting for plant and wildlife habitat.