[Click image below for a larger view] “...the contribution of the paper is primarily its synthesis of information collected over the last 25 years by numerous scientists”

The natural structural development of coniferous forest stands is synthesized in this paper. Natural stand development involves many structural features—including dead as well as living trees—many processes, and long time periods. The importance of the originating disturbance, such as wildfire or windstorm, and the structures that remain following this disturbance (biological legacies) are also emphasized. This paper represents the first time that such a comprehensive model of natural forest stand development has been synthesized and presented.

Previously existing models of forest stand development are applicable only to plantations and other simplified managed forests. Consequently, they have limited value in understanding how natural forests develop or in developing models for maintenance or restoration of forests that can provide an array of habitat and other ecological values.

Some new methodologies and analytic techniques are involved, such as the use of the construction crane to provide canopy access, but the contribution of the paper is primarily its synthesis of information collected over the last 25 years by numerous scientists.

In lay terms, this comprehensive description of how a coniferous forest changes over many centuries makes clear the large differences between a natural forest and a tree plantation and provides foresters with a guide for restoring our forest landscapes.

I have been involved in the study of structure, function, and diversity of natural forest ecosystems, including old-growth forests, for over 40 years.