Damage caused by cervid species on forest use and methods to control the damage

Abundant population of European elk impedes forest regeneration in commercial woods and conservation areas

The effects of Cervid species on tree quality and stand development were examined. Elk-related damage included quality defects in the trees and hindrance to forest regeneration. High-density elk areas have become more common and damage caused to deciduous trees was observed to prevent profitable silviculture. Continuous browsing was also observed to reduce the diversity; rowan and aspen have declined due to browsing. Since the damage to seedlings had increased rapidly, the increased population of elk did not benefit the clearing of seedling stands. In conservation areas browsing endangered the natural rate of forest regeneration, slow as it is anyway. Prevention of natural rotation of tree species can cause long-term changes in the forest ecosystem.

The results from new chemical deterrents were promising; they can prevent bark stripping of aspen caused by elk. However, year-round protection of deciduous tree seedlings turned out to be difficult. Hunting activities are needed to reduce the amount of damage.

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