B.F. Bachelor of Forestry Silviculture 3

Question 1

What is 'coppice' silviculture?

Accepted Answer

A system that regenerates forests from sprouts arising from cut stumps or roots

Answer

Coppice silviculture exploits the ability of certain hardwood species to produce vigorous sprouts from stumps or roots after cutting, providing rapid regeneration.

Question 2

In silviculture, what does 'basal area' measure?

Accepted Answer

The cross-sectional area of tree stems at breast height per unit area

Answer

Basal area is the sum of cross-sectional areas of all tree stems measured at breast height (4.5 ft) per unit area, expressed in square feet per acre or m² per hectare.

Question 3

Which silvicultural practice involves pruning lower branches to improve wood quality?

Accepted Answer

Artificial pruning (lift)

Answer

Artificial pruning or 'lifting' removes lower live branches to produce knot-free clear wood in the butt log, increasing lumber grade and value.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of prescribed burning as a silvicultural tool?

Accepted Answer

To reduce fuel loads, prepare seedbeds, control competition, and recycle nutrients

Answer

Prescribed fire is used to reduce accumulated fuels, prepare mineral seedbeds for regeneration, control competing vegetation, and return nutrients to the soil.

Question 5

What is 'group selection' harvesting?

Accepted Answer

Removing small groups of trees to create canopy openings for shade-tolerant regeneration

Answer

Group selection removes clusters of trees in small patches to create canopy gaps that favor shade-tolerant species while maintaining the overall uneven-aged character of the stand.

B.F. Bachelor of Forestry Practice Test

B.F. Bachelor of Forestry Practice Test

B.F. Bachelor of Forestry Silviculture 3