Clearfelling or clearcutting is the process where every tree, in a selected area, is taken in a logging operation. There is no agreed upon minimum area that constitutes a clear cut. The effect on the environment can be massive, especially in erosion-prone country if counter-measures are not taken. Production forests practising monoculture reforestation techniques (plantations) often use this method of harvesting the timber. Experience world-wide has shown the need to preserve riparian strips on watercourses. Devoid of trees, many areas denuded in this fashion quickly deteriorate . Also removal of the overstrory allows species that require sun to regenerate.
The word clearcutting has also been applied to all forms of cutblocks where the planned harvesting of timber management stands can be done in an ecologically sustainable manner.
In some areas such as lodgepole pine forests the practice of clearcutting is actually preferred as it better simulates natural deforestation of forest fires .
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