Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Economic outcomes from a particular forest stand depend on many factors but the
underlying cause is the prevailing silvicultural practices, following management regulations and
tradition. This study examines Scots pine and Norway spruce stands of average productivity in
Lithuania. The findings of the study revealed considerable differences between theoretical
program developed according to management regulations and practical forest management in
situ. Discrepancy between theoretical and practical forest management leads to the uncertain
forest economy, and decision making.
Another factor having considerable effect on economic outcomes is wood prices and
producing costs. After a huge jump in wood prices over the last two years, economic indicators
have significantly changed. This fact indicates uncertainty that has to be considered in the longterm
forestry projects.
Economic outcomes were calculated employing methodologies that are widely used in the
Nordic countries. In Scandinavia the model of costs and income discounting is present that makes
it possible to pursue economically efficient forestry. In Lithuania various methods of calculating
economic outcomes without discounting are still used that pursues traditional forestry (based on
maximum possible volume of certain assortments at the age of final felling). As a part of
methodology a survey was carried out with the aim to investigate practical forest management in
Lithuania. Results of this study can be used for comparative analyzes with other countries in
Baltic Sea region.