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Silviculture
LP’s reforestation responsibility was initiated in 1996 with the signing of the FML Agreement with the Province of Manitoba. The company’s silvicultural activities have dramatically increased over the last few years with the continuation or commencement of the following initiatives
- Development of alternative silvicultural/harvest systems
- Cone/seed collection
- Tree planting
- Site preparation/scarification
- Forest plantation survival assessments
- Forest regeneration surveys
- Establishment of seed orchards
- Silviculture research trials
- Stand tending
- Site Preparation/Scarification
Site preparation and scarification are necessary treatments in order to ensure the survival and establishment of coniferous (softwood) seedlings. This is done using a variety of methods
- Ripper plow
- Shark fin barrels & anchor chains and
- Power disc trencher
Site prep/scarification prepares the ground for tree planting and/or natural regeneration.
 Snow Cache
A snow cache is done in February in sites that have winter access only. The seedlings are buried under layers of snow and flax straw which acts as an insulator to preserve the seedlings until they are ready to be planted in the spring.
Tree Planting
LP is responsible for planting softwood seedlings in the Duck Mountains as part of the FML Agreement with the Province of Manitoba. There is a spring and summer plant conducted each year by tree plant contractors chosen by LP. Note: aspen (hardwood) regenerates on its own and does not require planting. The softwood seedlings planted are collected from the Duck Mountains and raised in a nursery until ready to be planted.
Surveys & Monitoring
All harvested/planted areas are surveyed and monitored over time to assess seedling survival, densities and growth. All harvested/planted areas must meet provincial forest renewal standards before a site is considered regenerated. If a site is not regenerating within the standards some type of treatment will be prescribed such as replanting or stand tending.
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