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Ecology and Management of Sitka Spruce
Ecology and Management of Sitka Spruce
Emphasizing Its Natural Range in British Columbia
Sitka spruce, the largest of the world's spruces, is animportant component of British Columbia's coastal forests. Itsecology gives it a special place in the sustainable management of theprovince's forests. However, in west coast forestry it is poorlyknown in comparison with its main coniferous companions -- Douglas-fir,western redcedar, and western hemlock. As an important internationalforestry resource, it is crucial that Sitka spruce -- its ecology andthe ecosystems in which it occurs -- be clearly understood by those whoare involved with its management.
This book is the most recent major work on the ecology andmanagement of Sitka spruce. The authors describe how this fascinatingtree reproduces, grows, and functions in its natural geographic range.They discuss both the ecology of Sitka spruce and silviculturalquestions such as original plantation spacing, juvenile spacing, andfertilization to accelerate the harvestability of second-growth coastalspruce stands.
Sitka spruce derives its importance not only from its prominence asan international transportable genetic resource but also from its rolein riparian systems and its biodiversity values. Here in NorthAmerica's west coast rainforest, this magnificent tree illustratesthe ecology of complex forest ecosystems and their cultural,wilderness, historic, and economic values.
The book is a comprehensive treatment of the basic biology and management issues of Sitka spruce, placed in geographic, ecological and economic context ... the book is full of detailed and worthwhile information. It is certain to be of great practical value to anyone concerned with management of Sitka spruce within its natural range.
... a comprehensive reference book full of facts.... The figures.... show a good range of subjects and illustrate the points well... most readable... I think that the book should be read by all Sitka spruce growers and should be on the reference bookshelf of every organisation which deals with Sitka spruce on a regular basis. Although aimed at North American readers, it contains a wealth of information relevant to us too.
What a treat .... I considered suggesting that not only should every British and Irish forestry practitioner and student purchase a copy of this book but that it should be liberally placed on hotel bedside tables....every forester should at least have a look at it at some time.
Acknowledgments
1. Introduction
2. Biology and Ecology of Naturally Occurring Sitka Spruce
3. Management of Sitka Spruce
4. Sitka Spruce in British Columbia's Future
Appendices
