British Columbia's production forests produce timber, but they also play a crucial role in capturing carbon from the atmosphere and supporting diverse wildlife. Instead of completely clearing forests for logging, some areas can be partially cut, which helps preserve these important services, while still allowing logging for wood. However, the lack of long-term studies on partial cutting means that the impact of partial cutting on timber recovery, biodiversity and carbon levels are affected in the entire ecosystem. To further explore partial-cutting, we worked with a large group of scientists and students to study 14 large-scale, long-term, replicated logging experiments across BC. Our research found that partial cuts can recover timber in 25-30 years if at least 34% of mature trees are retained. Also, some of these stands can reach carbon balance in 30 years if 27% volume is removed. For the 154 species monitored, we found that at least ~ 30%, 80% and 50% of mature trees should be retained to keep levels of abundance, richness, and diversity, respectively. Clearcutting, on the other hand, was an important carbon emitter still after 30 years and had a significant negative impact on birds, mammals, herbs, and shrubs. Both clearcutting and partial cutting significantly reduced insects, slugs, and fungi. Our research shows that retaining mature trees in BC's production forests can help protect biodiversity and fight climate change while still allowing logging for wood.

The Natural Resources & Environmental Studies Institute (NRESi) at UNBC hosts a weekly lecture series at the Prince George campus. Anyone from the university or wider community with interest in the topic area is welcome to attend. Presentations are also made available to remote participants through Zoom Webinar. Go to http://www.unbc.ca/nres-institute/colloquium-webcasts to view the presentation remotely.

Past NRESi colloquium presentations and special lectures can be viewed on our video archive, available here.