Twinflower survey

 

In conjunction with Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the owner of Curr Wood near Dulnain Bridge, an experiment has been established to monitor the impact of a range of thinning intensities in the Scots Pine crop on the growth and survival of the Twinflower (Linnaea borealis)community.

The impact of the various thinning regimes on canopy structure and subsequent impact on light levels have been monitored using hemispherical photography carried out by trained staff from Technical Services Unit (TSU) field station at Newton.

Tree height, diameter at breast height (DBH) and canopy widths have also been recorded before and after thinning and annually thereafter. This information is being used to develop a model that correlates the relationship between average DBH and light levels at the forest floor.

This programme supports the Forestry Commission's contribution to the implementation of the UK Species Action Plans (SAPs). Twinflower is one of the 15 priority species.

For further information about this project contact:

Dr. Janet Dutch
Technical Services Unit
Forest Research
Northern Research Station
Roslin
Midlothian
EH25 9SY

Tel: 0131 445 2176
Fax: 0131 445 5124
E-mail: janet.dutch@forestry.gsi.gov.uk