Northwest Science and Information (NWSI) publications offer the most current science on forests, fish, and wildlife to resource managers in northwestern Ontario.
Most of our publications are available in PDF format. These technical publications are published in English only. Single copies of our older publications are available from our Science Unit in Thunder Bay at no charge.
Mechanical Site Preparation and Vegetation Management. White, R.G. 2004. NWSI. Tech. Note TN-47. 20 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
Machinery is useful to prepare a favourable environment for crop tree regeneration. The main mechanical site preparation objectives are removal of harvest debris and creation of suitable spots for planting and/or seeding. Description and evaluation of site preparation equipment and vegetation response is discussed.
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Regeneration Strategies as a Proactive Approach to Vegetation Management. Hayes, A. 2001. NWST Technical Note TN-46. 8 pp. in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
After cutting a forest stand, an important goal is to return the site to desired tree species. Natural and artificial methods of planting and seeding are used to reforest the land. Site conditions dictate the best method to use for successful regeneration.
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Prescribed Fire as a Vegetation Management Tool. Luke, A.B. et al. 2000. NWST Technical Note TN-46. 12 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
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The Selection Silviculture System as Related to Vegetation Management. Robertson, S. and D. Myketa. 1998. NWST Tech. Note TN-44. 12 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
Single-tree and group selection harvest methods are used to create or maintain uneven-aged forest stands. These systems are briefly described, and their effects on forest stands are assessed and compared. Management implications for Ontario forests are discussed.
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Harvesting Practices and their Implications for Vegetation Management. Myketa, D. et al. 1998. NWST Tech. Note TN-43. 10 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
Harvest methods are named based on the size of cut timber delivered to a logging access road. Three harvest methods are
described and compared. Harvesting practice choice determines crop and non-crop plant species that grow on cutover areas.
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Manual, Motor-Manual and Mechanical Brushing Tools for Conifer Release. Harvey, E. M. et al. 1998. NWST Tech. Note TN-42. 12 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
Unwanted woody and non-woody plants can prevent desired crop tree species from thriving in a plantation. Discussion includes the pros and cons of several non-chemical methods for removal of competing vegetation. This note also describes response of the affected flora to the treatment.
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The Clearcut Silviculture System as Related to Vegetation Management. Whaley, R. and B. Polhill. 1998. NWST Tech. Note TN-41. 11 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
Large open areas result from cutting all usable trees in a forest stand. The specific harvest method used affects the desired and non-desired plant species that grow on the now clear-cut site. Harvest methods associated with this system are identified and their pros and cons discussed.
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Grazing Animals for Forest Vegetation Management. Foster, R.F. 1998. NWST Tech. Note TN-40. 11 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
Grazing animals can be used as a way to control competing vegetation in forested areas. This practice, used for site preparation or brushing treatments after planting, removes woody and non-woody growth. Many factors need thought before selecting this method of vegetation control.
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Cut Stump Herbicide Treatments to Reduce Sprouting and Root Suckering. Mallik, A. U. et al. 1997. NWST Tech. Note TN-39, 12 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
When conifer-dominated mixedwood sites are cut, stand regrowth usually contains a higher proportion of hardwood and non-desirable shrubby vegetation. Immediate application of herbicide after cutting is effective in providing selective control of sprouting species. This note provides a summary of chemicals used for this purpose. Additional information on plant response and application equipment is discussed.
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Estimating the Normal High Water Mark Using the Northwestern Ontario Wetland Ecosystem Classification. Racey, G.D. 1997. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont. NWST Technical Note TN-39.
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Forest Vegetation Management Alternatives: A Forward to the Guide. Wagner, R.G. and M.S. McLaughlan. 1996. NWST Tech. Note TN-38. 8 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
To harvest and then successfully regenerate a forest area requires careful consideration of many factors. Since 1991, the Vegetation Management Alternatives Program (VMAP) has led efforts to take forward vegetation management. A series of technical notes describe alternative vegetation management methods and technologies relevant to Ontario forests that are both commonly used and still undergoing development.
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Managing Vegetation with Herbicides: A Review of Glyphosate, 2,4-D, Hexazinone, Triclopyr and Simazine. McLaughlan, M.S. et al. 1996. NWST Tech. Note TN-37. 12 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
Chemicals, called herbicides, are useful in forestry to prepare a site for planting and/or seeding after tree harvest, or to release crop trees from surrounding vegetation that may hinder its growth. The five most commonly used forestry herbicides in Ontario are described. Their advantages and limiting factors are presented, as well as the response of selected crop and target species to those chemicals.
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Aerial Application of Herbicides: A Review of Common Aircraft and Drift Prediction Tools. McLaughlin, M.S. et al. 1996. NWST Tech. Note TN-36. 8 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
It is important to control of competing vegetation when trying to renew a forest stand. Herbicides applied from helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft can successfully treat large or difficult-to-access areas. The note describes advantages and limiting factors of aircraft types and examines spray drift and its deposition.
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The Shelterwood Silvicultural System as Related to Vegetation Management. Myketa, D. and M.S. McLaughlan. 1996. NWST Tech. Note TN-35. 9 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
Shelterwood and other partial cutting harvest systems offer advantages over traditional clearcut methods. This note describes shelterwood regeneration treatments and their effects on desirable and competing vegetation.
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An Approach to Pre-Harvest Silviculture Prescriptions in Boreal Ontario. Bidwell, P.K. et al. 1996. NWST Tech. Note TN-34. NEST Tech. Note TN-014. 12 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
Pre-harvest silvicultural prescriptions (PHSP) are required by law on Crown land in Ontario. Discussion includes the justification for and benefits of doing PHSPs. This note presents a step-by-step method for creating a detailed, site-specific reforestation plan.
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Fungi and Plant Toxins for Forest Vegetation Management. Myketa, D. et al. 1995. NWST Technical Note TN-33. 8 pp.
in Bell, W. et al. (compilers). Vegetation Management Alternatives – A Guide to Opportunities. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Thunder Bay, Ont.
The list of living organisms that can be used as biological control treatments is extensive. Many life forms of plant or animal origin are useful for pest control. Fungi, bacteria and their extracts are used to control non-desired plants in forest stands. Advantages and limitations of biological treatments for pest and plant control are described.
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Interpreting Fire Danger in Northwestern Ontario Based Upon Site Hazard and Forest Operation. 1995. R. Wilt shire, D.J. Archibald, W.D. Towill and W. Bodnar. TN-32.
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Jack Pine Density Management Diagram for Boreal Ontario. 1995.
D.J. Archibald and C. Bowling. (A joint publication with Northeast Science & Technology; NEST TN-005). TN-31.
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Critical Silvics of Sphagnum Moss as Related to Vegetation Management. 1994. M. Kershaw, R. Wiltshire and C. Hollstedt. TN-30.
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Critical Silvics of Feathermoss as Related to Vegetation Management. 1994. M. Kershaw, R. Wiltshire and C. Hollstedt. TN-29.
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Development of Silvicultural Keys to Support Integrated Vegetation Management Decision Making in Regenerating Forest Stands. 1994. P.W. Street, C.J. Arlidge and C. Hollstedt. TN-28.
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Overwintering Black Spruce Container Stock Under Styrofoam®Sm Insulating Blanket. 1994. R. Whaley. TN-27.
Alternative Water Crossing Structures. 1994. B. Adamson. TN-26.
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Cone Loading for Natural Seeding Following Full-Tree and Tree-Length Harvesting in Jack Pine Stands. 1994. C. Bowling and B. Goble. TN-25.
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Comparison of Black Spruce Stock Produced in Six Container Types. 1994. R.E. Whaley, E. Kangas and L.J. Buse. TN-24.
Five-Year Growth Response of Thinned Jack Pine Near Atikokan, Ontario. 1993. B.C. Goble and C. Bowling. TN-23.
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A 30-Year Remeasurement of a Red Pine Provenance Trial: Implications for Management in Northwestern Ontario. 1993. M. Maley and C. Bowling. TN-22.
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The Problem of Sediment in Water for Fish. Ward, N. 1992. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Northwest Ont. For. Technol. Dev. Unit. Thunder Bay, Ont. NWOFDU Tech. Note TN-21. 8 pp.
Building roads increases the silt and sand in rivers and streams. The author evaluates the effects of water-borne sediments on aquatic communities. Sediment control plans must be developed around the life history of aquatic life.
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Sediment Control Plans: Reducing Sediment Concerns at Water Crossings. 1992. B. Adamson and A. Harris. TN-20.
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Regeneration of Jack Pine and Black Spruce Using Dupont Tree Eggs. 1992. L.J. Buse. TN-19.
Esnagami Brushsaw Study: Effects of Various Concentrations of 2,4-D and Glyphosate on Trembling Aspen. 1992. R.E. Whaley and F.J. Johnson. TN-18.
Critical Silvics of Reindeer Lichen as Related to Vegetation Management. 1992. C. Hollstedt and A. Harris. TN-17.
Critical Silvics of Bracken Fern as Related to Vegetation Management. 1992. L.J. Buse. TN-16.
Critical Silvics of Large-Leaved Aster as Related to Vegetation Management. 1992. C. Hollstedt. TN-15.
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A Critical Silvics of White Pine as Related to Vegetation Management. 1992. L.J. Buse. TN-14.
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A Brief Review of the Issues Surrounding Full Tree Harvesting. 1992. A. Wiensczyk. TN-13.
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Bartt Precision Seeder Trial. 1992. P. Corbett. TN-12.
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Bartt Mark IV and TTS Sigma Precision Seeders. 1992. P. Davidson. TN-11.
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A Competition Index Methodology for Northwestern Ontario. 1991. W.D. Towill and D.A. Archibald. TN-10.
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Black Spruce Site Quality Key for the Northwestern Region of Ontario. 1991. L.J. Buse and W.D. Baker. TN-09.
Determining Necessity and Priority for Tending in Young Spruce Plantations in Northwestern Ontario. 1991. L.J. Buse and W.D. Baker. TN-08.
Woodland Caribou in Northwestern Ontario Why They are Different. Godwin. L. 1990. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., Northwest Sci. and Technol., Thunder Bay, Ont. Northwestern Ont. Boreal For. Mgmt. Tech. Note TN-07. 7 pp.
Woodland caribou, in northwestern Ontario, live in a few specific habitats. Their needs and behaviour differ from moose and other members of the deer family. This note reports on some of those key differences and outlines several caribou management issues.
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Pre-commercial Thinning and Mechanical Cleaning: Multiple Benefits From Stand Improvement. 1990. G.D. Racey and M. Pletch. TN-06.
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An Examination of Cutting Patterns Proposed in the "Guidelines for the Protection of Tourism Values." 1989. G.D. Racey and R. Reynolds. TN-05.
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Marten and Fisher Response to Cutovers: A Summary of the Literature and Recommendations for Management. 1989. G. Racey and B. Hessey. TN-04.
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Snow Cache Seedling Storage in Northwestern Ontario. 1989. W.D. Baker. TN-03.
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Low Water Crossings: An Inexpensive Alternative for Low Volume Roads in Northern Ontario. 1989. R.B. Adamson and G. Racey. TN-02.
Shelter Seeding Black Spruce and Jack Pine in Northwestern Ontario. 1989. B. Campbell and W.D. Baker. TN-01.
Single copies are available from:
Ministry of Natural Resources
Northwest Science & Information
RR 1, 25th Side Road
Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
P7C 4T9
Telephone: (807) 939-2501
Facsimile: (807) 939-1841
Bulk orders may involve shipping charges.
Northwest Science & Information was formerly known as Northwest Science & Technology, Boreal Science Section.
Les documents offerts, de nature technique et à distribution est limitée, ne sont disponibles qu’en anglais en vertu du règlement 411/97, en application de la Loi sur les services en français. Cependant nous invitons nos lecteurs francophones désireux d’obtenir de plus amples renseignements, à s’adresser au bureau du MRN le plus proche ou à composer le 1-800-667-1840.
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