Viability and silvicultural reclamation assessment of deciduous forest belts in the Koibal steppe of the Republic of Khakassia

Abstract

The article analyzes the viability and silvicultural and reclamation efficiency of stands of silver birch (Betula pendula Roth), black poplar (Populus nigra L.) and laurel poplar (Populus laurifolia Ledeb.) at the age of 33 years, growing in forest belts of checkerboard and row planting methods. Using modern research methods, temporary trial plots were established. It has been established that on chestnut, poorly developed and sandy loam soil with deep groundwater, stands of the noted tree species are at the stage of degression. The best viability (1.8 points) with planting safety of 57.5 % is typical for birch stands created by the checkerboard planting method. The worst viability (4.5 points) and low (14.7 %) preservation are distinguished by stands of black poplar, created by the same checkerboard planting method. The surveyed forest stands are characterized by a weakened and severely weakened vital state. The total lifespan of silver birch in the Koibal steppe can reach 45 years, and black and laurel poplars – no more than 35 years. The protective and silvicultural and reclamation properties of birch forest belts are not sufficiently expressed, they have a satisfactory (3a points) silvicultural and reclamation assessment, they require partial reconstruction and the resumption of agrotechnical care at the edges of the forest belts. Poplar forest belts have completely lost their protective and silvicultural-reclamation functions, correspond to a low (1 point) silvicultural-reclamation assessment, and need to be uprooted and replaced.

Keywords

• silver birch
• black poplar
• bay leaf poplar
• planting method
• preservation of trees