Growth and Release of Understory Spruce in Partially-Cut Pine Stands

This report addresses the management practices and challenges related to sub-boreal forests in British Columbia. It discusses the historical dominance of clearcutting followed by planting and the recent trend of retaining 5-15% of canopy trees for future timber supply. With the mountain pine beetle epidemic leading to complex multi-storied stands, the study examines the performance of underplanted interior spruce seedlings in these conditions. Using an existing experiment, the report analyzes the survival, growth, and release of understory spruce trees following the impact of the mountain pine beetle.