Single-Tree Selection Silvicultural Method: History, Global Experiences, and Prospects for Iran

Document Type : Scientific Views

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Kermanshah Province Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Agricultural Research and Extension Education Organization, Kermanshah, Iran

2 UniversAssociate Professor, Department of Forestry and Forest Economics, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iranity of Tehran

10.22092/irn.2025.369477.1650

Abstract

The selective system, as a key approach to close-to-nature management, originated in 19th-century Europe to preserve uneven-aged structure and species diversity in forests. After a period of decline, it has regained attention in recent decades. This method involves the individual selection and harvesting of trees based on criteria such as size, quality, and habitat value, which, while ensuring timber production, also facilitates ecological sustainability and natural regeneration. Global experiences demonstrate that successful implementation, especially in natural and uneven-aged forests of Central Europe, contributes to biodiversity conservation, complex forest structure, and multiple forest functions. In Iran, particularly in the Hyrcanian forests, among the richest and oldest forest ecosystems, the feasibility of applying this method considering ecological, social, and managerial conditions has become significant. Findings indicate that despite challenges like exploitation pressure, lack of specialists, and the need for localization, a modified single-tree selection approach could be a sustainable management option for some Iranian forest stands. Finally, the necessity of further research and development of localized guidelines for the practical application of this method is emphasized.

Keywords

References

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Iran Nature
Volume 10, Issue 2 - Serial Number 51
July and August 2025
Pages 27-35

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