The French approach to broadleaved silviculture.

Abstract

French forest land covers one quarter of the country (14 million hectares). Broadleaves represent two-thirds of this area, with oaks (34% of the total area) and beech (15%) as major species. When possible, oak silviculture aims at producing high quality wood which is obtained through a long (more than 200 years) and patient management. Such management incorporates within it the most recent understanding from science and the requirements of modem economic needs. Beech is considered a good afforestation and reforestation species in many areas including alkaline soil. No more than 100 to 120 years should be needed to produce trees with an improved wood quality as compared with present and rather conservative management techniques. For both these species, planting may have to replace natural regeneration. A strategy for future afforestation with broadleaves is discussed. It involves short and long lived species, industry wood and timber production, and use of a series of common or high wood quality species.