Jean E.
As an owner of a woodlot, I found this book a good resource and of great interest.


Choice, V37 No 2, 1999
The overall thesis of the book is that good land stewardship maximizes both ecological conservation and economic returns.


Booklist, V. 95, no 14, 1999
The authors offer information on developing a woodland-stewardship plan and buying woodland property.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Whether you are interested in growing trees for timber, generating income from selling firewood, sheltering wildlife or preserving your land for future generations, The Woodlot Management Handbook will show you how to get the most out of your land. Packed with more than 50 diagrams and illustrations, this book is the result of the authors' extensive hands-on experience in helping landowners get maximum return and enjoyment from their woodlands while respecting and protecting the delicate ecological balance.

Written in a personal "get out and walk your woodland" style, the authors answer most common questions: basic conservation nature appreciation reforestation moderate forestry timber management assessing your own woodland identifying trees specific techniques for maintaining wildlife habitat such as snags, logs, den trees, and brush piles.

There is extensive information on landscape ecology, reforestation practices, natural succession, hardwood plantings, and problems of invasive species. Specific guidelines are given for landowners wanting to cut firewood as well as a clear explanation of how to thin a woodland to improve the stand and enhance timber value by correct pruning, crop tree selection, and planting practices.

About the Authors:

Stewart Hilts and Peter Mitchell have been working together since 1991 designing and carrying out programs to support the stewardship efforts of rural landowners. Stewart Hilts teaches in the Department of Land Resources Science at the Ontario Agricultural College. Peter Mitchell is a research associate on various projects at the Centre for Land & Water Stewardship, University of Guelph. Their approach to woodlot management involves integrating information to deal with real problems, options and opportunities from a landowner perspective while incorporating a strong ecological perspective.

FROM THE CRITICS

Jean E. Bedger - Current Books on Gardening & Botany

This is a well-done, comprehensive explanation of woodland ecology in terms of property management and restoration. Over 50 diagrams and illustrations help the reader understand the text. As an owner of a woodlot, I found this book a good resource and of great interest.

Choice - (Choice, V37 No 2, 1999)