Modification of Mid-Aged Spruce Plantation Habitat to Improve Biodiversity and Wildlife Habitat

In North America alone, over 45 million hectares of plantation forest exists, contributing to both biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. This research aims to assess whether biodiversity and wildlife habitat objectives may be achieved through small patch cuts in a second growth spruce plantation, while ensuring economic feasibility through the extraction of timber without contributing negatively to watershed hazards and landscape conditions. Habitat enhancement objectives are investigated through the creation of small openings (<0.9ha) select tree removal, and long-term habitat monitoring to assess forage availability and quality, tree growth to promote snow interception and thermal regulation required among winter range habitats. A final report will be generated outlining the long-term findings of this project, including changes in plant communities, wildlife use, and thermoregulating properties of the forest as time progresses. This data can then help land managers and forest management planning better understand how to better manage plantations for wildlife habitat.