On Wed, 2 Nov 1994 d.norton@fore.canterbury.ac.nz wrote: > NZ of course has a large forestry estate dominated by exotic species, > especially radiata pine. Several conifers, predominantly North > American, are now starting to create problems in some areas of NZ. > the main species Pinus contorta, pinus nigra, Pinus radiata, > Pseudotsuga menziesii and Larix decidua. ...... > In summary, the short answer to the question is be VERY cautious with > introductions of new species. I agree with David's note of caution. I'd add a qualifier, however. Were it not for our plantations, we would have far fewer natural forest remnants, as they probably would have been mined to meet our domestic wood needs. The establishment of exotic plantations by the Forest Service was a result of a rational appraisal of NZ's dwindling domestic sources of wood. It is an example of a successful economic intervention by a state agency. From an ecological perspective, there is much debate. The invasion of dry, high-altitude ecosystems by P. contorta is of great concern. However, radiata pine is less hazardous. It wouldn't even establish itsself on 2/3 of Kaingaroa without human intervention. Over the long haul, if the land were left to itsself, radiata wouldn't disappear, but it would occupy less than 5% of NZ's land area (the area it currently occupies) in my view. Regards, Euan ================================================================== Dr Euan G. Mason Silviculture, Modelling and Lecturer in Silviculture Decision-support systems School of Forestry University of Canterbury New Zealand's professional Christchurch, New Zealand Forestry School ==================================================================
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