Forestry, Production
We conduct research in the field of forest management in coniferous and deciduous forests in Sweden. Most of our research deals with forestry issues in southern Swedish forests, but we are also carrying out a great deal of research in other parts of Sweden and other countries.
The research is mainly applied research and based on field trials. Our goal is to raise awareness of the impact of various actions carried out in the forests. These measures may aim to increase production, increase the value or change the characteristics of the forest. So far, timber has often been the main focus but other values of forests are also important. Often, our work will result in recommendations for forest management. However, it is important that these recommendations are based on scientific studies. Although our main focus is applied research, we conduct a lot of basic research that must fit into the group's efforts to increase efficiency of use of forest resources.
Examples of research questions are: establishment of planted seedlings, planting of oak and beech, fertilization (both conventional fertilization and needs custom fertilization in young stands of pine), clearing and thinning, forest management to reduce the negative effects of the storm and root rot, alternative forest management practices, for example, continuous cover forestry and the effect of climate change on forest growth.
We have a long history of engaging in thematic research programs. Currently, we are active with two major research programs, Future Forests and the Broadleaf Program. The Broadleaf Program have recently been completed and will shortly be replaced by a new deciduous forest use program.