Soil Recovery After Forest Operations in Fagus sylvatica L. Stands: Is a 5‐year Interval Long Enough?
Author(s)
Date Issued
December 2025
Type
text::journal::journal article
Volume
130
Issue
12
ISSN
2169-8953
2169-8961
Abstract
This study evaluates the effects of ground-based logging on soil properties and microarthropod biodiversity in Mediterranean beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) forests, with a focus on recovery over a 5-year period. Fieldwork was conducted in three study areas in southern Italy to compare three site types: recently harvested (2021, NEW), harvested 5 years prior (2017, OLD), and unharvested control (>40 years ago, CON). Soil samples were collected from skid trails (DIST) and from adjacent, not-trafficked areas (UND) to assess bulk density, penetration resistance, shear strength, organic matter content, and the QBS-ar index of microarthropod biodiversity. Logging machinery significantly compacted the soil in DIST_NEW, increasing bulk density by 19% compared with UND_NEW. Penetration resistance tripled (0.26 vs. 0.09 MPa in CON), and shear strength rose from 1.96 to 7.18 t m−2. The QBS-ar index declined by 50% in comparison to the CON areas, indicating substantial biodiversity loss. After 5 years, partial recovery was observed in DIST_OLD, with bulk density and penetration resistance decreasing by 13% and 8%, respectively, though values remained above those in CON sites. These results highlight the lasting impacts of forest operations on soil health and microarthropod biodiversity. To reduce degradation, strategies such as permanent skid trail planning or use of protective technologies like logging mats are recommended. Continued research into deeper soil layers and various soil types is essential to guide more sustainable forest management practices.
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JGR Biogeosciences - 2025 - Latterini - Soil Recovery After Forest Operations in Fagus sylvatica L Stands Is a 5‐year.pdf
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