Clear Cutting

Definition Cutting all the trees in one area.

Selective Cutting
Cutting only the mature trees in one area. Reforestation occurs naturally, which means that the trees nearby grow better and the diversity of the species is continued.

Positive Aspects

This method provides more light for the new trees. It is the cheapest method.

While the animals are disturbed for a short period of time, by the noise and human activity, they go back to their normal way of life quite quickly after the people leave. The soil is only damaged a little bit, if at all.

After all the trees are cut, a plantation is created. It is NOT a forest because all the trees are the same type and they are all the same age. Some species of animal may die during the process of clear cutting because their habitat has been destroyed. The soil in and around the area of the clear cut is hardened and eroded because of the machines that are used. Because of the loss of protection (trees that have been clear cut) other trees may be come damaged by the wind.

negative aspects

This type of cut is the more expensive of the two.