A silvicultural system and harvesting method that removes an entire stand of trees in a single operation. This creates a fully exposed microclimate that favors shade-intolerant pioneer species for the next generation of growth. While visually drastic, it mimics natural stand-replacing disturbances like severe fires or windstorms.
Heard on the job
The replanting crew will be heading up to the new clearcut on ridge four next Tuesday.
Do not mix it up with
- Cutblock: A cutblock is the planned administrative boundary of the harvest, while a clearcut is the physical result on the ground.