Continuous cover forestry

Continuous cover forestry is a forest management approach that maintains a continuous canopy during the regeneration phase, avoiding clearcutting in favour of selective harvesting or small-scale clearing. The main idea behind continuous cover forestry is a reduction in the number or size of clear-cuts. Some definitions of continuous cover forestry state that no clear-cuts shall be larger than 0.25 ha. 

A key objective of continuous cover forestry is to ensure that the soil surface is never exposed, thereby reducing sediment production and minimising the risk of erosion. This uninterrupted canopy not only protects soil health but also enhances water-related benefits.

Hydrologically, continuous cover forestry supports greater rainfall interception as the canopy intercepts and slows down rainfall. By maintaining forest cover, the system promotes better water infiltration into the soil, reducing surface runoff and promoting groundwater recharge. In addition, limiting the amount of exposed soil prevents sediment from entering nearby water bodies, thus maintaining water quality.