Diversifying forest management methods in Finland

This three-part brochure series presents key findings from the forest Living Lab sites in the Rovaniemi region of Lapland, Finland, developed within the TRANSFORMIT project. The publications explore how Integrative Forest Management (IFM) can support the diversification of boreal forest management by combining ecological, economic, and social objectives.

Traditionally, Boreal forests in Finland are managed using even-aged forestry, while continuous cover forestry remains limited in its application. The brochures document ongoing efforts to broaden this management spectrum and provide evidence-based insights into alternative silvicultural approaches.

The first brochure, Diversifying Forest Management Methods, introduces the Living Lab sites in Lapland and compares four harvesting methods (clear-cutting, seed tree cutting, small gap cutting, and selective cutting) across indicators such as forest regeneration, biodiversity, and economic viability.

The second brochure, Regeneration Results, focuses on post-harvest regeneration outcomes, presenting empirical data on Scots pine seedling development four years after harvesting. It highlights how different management approaches influence regeneration success and stand dynamics.

The third brochure, Provision of Ecosystem Services – Results from Motti DST, examines long-term trade-offs between timber production and ecosystem services using decision support tools. It compares forest structure, biodiversity-related indicators, and economic performance across management regimes over extended time horizons.

Together, the brochures demonstrate how IFM can be applied across forest types to better balance timber production, carbon storage, biodiversity conservation, and recreational values. They provide practical insights for forest managers, researchers, and policymakers seeking to support more adaptive and multifunctional forest management systems.