Disturbances

Ecosystem dynamics are constantly being disturbed and modified by natural disturbances: fire, insect infestations, diseases, windfall, glaze ice and die-back. These events can result in the death of trees over areas of several thousand square kilometres.

Disturbances transform environmental conditions (release of nutrients, changing light and moisture conditions, etc.) in the ecosystem. A process of secondary succession, or changes in the composition of the stand, follows.

Natural disturbances giving rise to secondary successions vary in terms of frequency, severity and affected areas, as well as in the changes they produce in the ecosystem. In addition to large openings in the forest cover, disturbances can cause an accumulation of ground debris, changes in water quantity and quality, a loss of organic matter, etc. All these factors influence regeneration and the species that will make up the new stand.

By studying natural disturbances, we gain a better understanding of the impact that human activities have on forest ecosystems. The impact of some human disturbances, such as forest cutting, is similar to that caused by natural disturbances.

Forest managers are increasingly inspired by natural events when planning forest cuts. This facilitates natural regeneration and can reduce the negative impacts on secondary succession. Since today's forests are considered to have not only an economic role, but also social and ecological ones, work is being done to preserve ecosystems and ensure their renewal for the benefit of future generations.