Site Preparation, Regeneration & Revegetation
         
  General Information      
 

Site preparation is the use of mechanical, chemical or other means to prepare a site for regeneration of a forest. Regeneration is the re-establishment of a forest stand. Revegetation may include regeneration, but should also address the need for soil stabilization on sites such as landings, skid trails, roads and streamside management zones (SMZs). Site preparation, regeneration and revegetation is recommended for all timber harvesting activities.

Choose appropriate equipment for harvest on sensitive areas, including wetlands, bogs, slide areas and steep slopes. Equipment selection should consider the effects of erosion, compaction, sedimentation of water bodies, soil displacement and minimization of soil disturbance.

  
         
  Site Preparation  
  Proper site preparation provides adequate planting space to ensure the survival and growth of newly planted or established seedlings. Without proper site preparation, harvested sites can be overtaken by undesirable brush and weed species and remain unstocked for long periods of time.  
         
     
  In most cases, site preparation is necessary to reduce logging debris or to control other vegetation prior to planting. Site preparation practices includes many different methods. Here, site scarification using a brush blade is being demonstrated to effectively prepare the site for planting. In most cases, site scarification to expose mineral soil is necessary to improve seed germination and seedling establishment.   Sensitive areas such as this bog require special care during harvesting activities.  
         
  Protect Soil from Compaction  
  Take special precautions when using heavy equipment to prepare the site for planting. Because trees need water and air for growth, compacting the soil can delay or even eliminate the start of the next forest. Soil may look and feel solid, but much of it is actually empty pore space. Use of heavy equipment can squeeze pore space which reduces space for water and air and nutrient
uptake through the roots of the newly planted seedlings.