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Thinning of broadleaf/conifer mixtures

Objective

To establish a minimum of 3 experimental sites that can be used to produce tending and thinning guidelines for current conifer / broadleaf mixtures
To investigate the products available from thinnings of conifer / broadleaf mixtures

WP 4a – State-of-the-Art

A comprehensive literature review was conducted, making use of the internet and available abstracts databases.
All literature collected was entered into a database (EndNote) and filed.
A review of unpublished work undertaken in Ireland was carried out.
NATFOREX database was interrogated to source existing national trials to visit.

WP4b – Timing and Intensity of Thinning

Source a minimum of 3 suitable sites
With regard to information gained from WP4a, establish plots (months 6 – 42)
Measure and monitor plots to end of project
- Survival; Stem diameter; Stem height; Stem form
Manage the trial sites to end of project

WP4c – Products from Thinnings

A comprehensive literature review was conducted, making use of the internet and available abstracts databases. All literature collected was entered into a database (EndNote) and filed.
Visits to existing producers using small-dimension roundwood from thinnings, both nationally and internationally, was conducted and reported upon.
Links with WP4a and WP5c.

WP4d – Thinning Protocols

Draft Thinning Protocols were derived by the Programme team and distributed for comment to industry
Final Thinning Protocols were produced and disseminated