Silviculture
Silviculture is the branch of forestry dedicated to the practice of regenerating forest composition and growth. Silviculture is divided into three areas: regeneration, intermediate cuttings, and protection. The act of replacing old trees, is called regeneration. The period of regeneration begins when planting operations start and does not end until young trees have become established.
Intermediate cuttings are types of cuttings made during the growth of the stand. These cuttings or thinning’s are made to improve the existing stand of trees. Thinning stands is used to improve growth through adjustments in stand density, the regulation of species composition, and the selection of individuals that will make up the harvest trees.
Protection of the stand against fire, insects, fungi, animals, and atmospheric disturbances is as much a part of silviculture as is harvesting, regenerating, and tending the forest crop.