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Thinning of Pure Broadleaf Stands

Objective

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

WP5a – 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A review of unpublished work undertaken in Ireland was carried out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.

WP5b – Thinning Intensity

Source a minimum of 3 suitable sites
With regard to information gained from WP5a, 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

WP5c – 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 where feasible, was conducted and reported upon.
Links with WP4c and WP5a.

WP5d – Thinning Protocols

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