| We will evaluate the conservation potential of retained tree groups after clear-cutting for “life boating” of species from the previous stand. We will do this specifically for lichen biodiversity in buffer zones along streams. We will study direct temporal effects on lichen communities in the buffer zones in central Sweden (Medelpad, Jämtland) by following changes from just before to 16.5 years after clear-cutting using a unique dataset with 15 permanent plots established in 1998. The 0.1 ha plots have been re-surveyed in 2001 and we will conduct a second re-survey in 2015 of all larger lichens (fruticose and foliose species) as well as many small lichens of conservation interest (crostose lichens, e.g. pin-lichens). This gives us the opportunity to test both short and long-term effects on the lichen communities, which gives us a better understanding of the potential of buffer zones for conservation of this species rich and interesting organism group from a conservation perspective. We will also increase our understanding of which species (or species group) that have fast and slow responses to drastic changes in their environment, and get data on the dynamics of their habitat (e.g. tree falls and input of dead wood) in the buffer zones. Retention of live trees, either as single trees or in groups, on clear-cuts is an important measure in modern forestry. We have previously studied bryophytes and land snails in this habitat and published extensively on that, but long-term studies of lichens in these habitats are lacking and nothing from the first lichen inventories is yet published. Our study will therefore be of international interest for both researchers and practitioners and add an important dimension not previously covered.
The project heavily builds on previously collected data, which make it very cost effective since a single field season inventory will be enough to get a unique time series in a well-replicated before and after study. We will conduct the fieldwork in the summer of 2015 and compile the data and write the scientific paper and report the results during the winter-spring 2015-2016.
The project is well in line with the aims of the Lamm foundation. The focus of the application is on nature conservation in forest ecosystems. The environment we study is also highly interesting from a water conservation point of view and there is a great interest in possible synergy effects between conservation and management actions for both terrestrial and aquatic biota. The results from previous studies using this experiment has revealed many important insights. I have been invited many times to different authorities, companies and NGOs to share my acquired knowledge about buffer strip management in boreal forestry (see a few examples in my CV). This project will further build upon that strong background and will be well-received by practitioners working with management for biodiversity conservation in forest ecosystems. Much is known about lichens in many forest habitats, but apparently stream side habitats and buffer strip management has so far been neglected. |