conditions (i.e. SZ < 12 m) would not be as effective
in producing the appropriate structure within a reasonable
pulpwood rotation age. A land manager
could decide whether to extend the rotation, or simply
depend on the more productive stands to provide
the necessary habitat structure.
If the logs are intended as potential subnivean
access sites, then the structural characteristics of the
logs should be as important as the total volume of
CWD on the ground. For example, Corn and Raphael
(1992) determined that stacked or crossed logs were
used more often as access sites than one would
expect based on availability on the landscape. Sturtevant
et al. (1996b) also indicated that the structural
diversity of CWD was greatest within typical, oldgrowth
stands (i.e. marten habitat) in Newfoundland.
Thus, small clusters of trees cut to simulate a blowdown
would be preferred over the standard, uniform
distribution of cut trees following a traditional thinning.
Additionally, crown closure would be delayed
within these openings, and allowing for a more
diverse canopy structure, greater understory growth
and enhanced vole habitat.