Clear Cutting
of Forests
Written By:
Zehra Nasirali & Gwenn Macleod
For: Mr. Sims
Course: SNC-2AI
Date: 5th
September, 1997
When a lumber company completely clears out a forested area of trees, it is called clear cutting. This greatly destroys the forest ecosystem. i.e. the plant and animal species, habitats and the surrounding environment; soil erosion occurs. This process should be systematically attained to maintain the ecosystem and not only serve the purpose of lumber companies, but also take care of both/ the biotic and abiotic factors. This is where selective cutting comes into play; by randomly removing alternate trees so as to create space on the forest floor and have direct contact with sunlight to allow speedy re-growth upon decaying branches and twigs. The remaining trees and new species of plants that will begin to grow, will also help the- animal species not to move away or die of starvation and become extinct.
Among other disadvantages of clear cutting is that lakes or streams may eventually dry up by either landslides caused due to the soil becoming loose on a slopping ground, or pollution caused by lumbering equipment, leaking oils, and other synthetic materials that would affect fish and birds in the process. Furthermore, clear cutting would eliminate the canopy of leaves that usually act as a buffer against heavy rainfall, which protects the soil from eroding. Thus creating awareness among lumber companies and the general public could save lakes and streams.
Our society could also help to decrease the need for clear cutting by taking the aid of the government to set up regulatory bodies whereby lumber companies are restricted to designated areas for cutting and are taught the method of selective cutting. One of the most important aspects that society can assist and that cannot be overemphasized, is the understanding of the ill affects of such clear cutting which should appeal to the lumber companies so that they will willingly follow rules and regulations. Last but not the least, the momentum of keeping the recycling habit of forest related products should be kept ongoing and always further advertised by society.
Help Mother Earth save the environment; plant a tree
wherever you go."
Teachers Comments: 87% Well done!