Selected Topics of Multifunctional Forest Management (Block Days)

Abstract

In 9 full-day excursions, the 3 most frequent forest management systems in CH (Swiss Femelschlag, single-tree selection / plenter forest and continuous cover forestry) are deepened. Key concepts are presented during the course, illustrated with concrete examples in the forest and put into practice. The practical course offers a unique possibility to exchange with experts and forest practitioners.

Objective

At the end of this practical course, participants will... ...have a consolidated understanding of multifunctional forest management and silviculture based on concrete examples, especially regarding the three most frequent silvicultural systems used in Switzerland ▪ Swiss Femelschlag ▪ Single tree selection system (Plenter forest) ▪ Continuous cover forestry (Dauerwald) ...be able to conduct silvicultural assessments, evaluate silvicultural options and design concrete management recommendations for maintaining resilient and multifunctional forests, also under changing climate.

Content

Nine full-day excursions on the following topics: 1. Swiss Femelschlag: theory, regeneration urgency and timing 2. Swiss Femelschlag: Regeneration processes, periods, and spatial order 3. Swiss Femelschlag: Regeneration and planning of silvicultural interventions 4. Swiss Femelschlag: natural regeneration and felling systems, regeneration techniques 5. Classic single-tree selection (Plenter) system with spruce, fir and beech and transformation from even-aged forest to plenter forest 6. Continuous cover forestry in broadleaved forests: theory and marteloscope exercise 7. Non-native tree species and future forests in dry regions of Switzerland 8. Continuous cover forestry in broadleaved forests: Possibilities and limits 9. Silviculture to sustain biodiversity and ecological continuity in oak forests This practical course allows students to exchange with forest practitioners and silviculture experts, as they will often contribute to the excursions. Normally the excursions are on Thursdays when the AFLMLab (Applied Forest and Landscape Management Lab) is not taking place.

Resources