Management of Recreational Forests in the Romanian Carpathians

Abstract

Research Highlights: Forests, due to their aesthetic properties, have huge recreational potential, but their management must take into account the requirements of all parties interested in these services. Background and Objectives: We sought to determine the main indicators that characterize the structural diversity of a recreational mountain forest, with relevance for the management of these forests, given that they fulfill multiple functions. Materials and Methods: The structure of 446 stands was investigated and the Shannon (H) diversity index was applied at the level of species (Hsp), age (Hage), tree diameter (Hd(g)), and tree height (Hh(g)). Results: Beech occupied 49% of the forest area and fir and spruce 16% each. Generations of trees older than 100 years occupied 71% of the forest area and those older than 150 years occupied 10%. At an age of 120 years, the beech reached a diameter (d, at breast height) of 45 cm and the fir 52 cm. At the forest level, Hsp had a value of 1.63, Hd(g) of 3.17, and Hh(g) of 2.76. At the stand level, Hsp reached 1.54, while Hd(g) and Hh(g) reached 1.72. Mixed beech-coniferous stands had the greatest diversity. High values of 1.00 for Hsp were determined for 18% of the stands, for Hd(g) 38%, and for Hh(g) 35%. Conclusions: Stand structures are in a continuous state of change, so diversity indices can be used to monitor structural and species diversities and to evaluate the recreational potential of stands and forests. A compatibility between the aesthetic qualities of Romanian forests, which is a priority, and the other protection and production services they offer can be achieved by leading the forest stands toward a selection system.