The intensity, frequency and timing of thinning operations can be modified to reduce select climate change risks.

Changes can be applied within a rotation to accelerate adaptation ahead of end-of-rotation measures, such as changing the species composition of a woodland using underplanting or enrichment planting, or by stimulating natural regeneration. In stands with high wind risk, late thinning can increase the risk of windthrow, therefore wind risk should be considered as part of planning forest operations, and incorporated early.

As well as encouraging tree growth, thinning can offer the following adaptation benefits:

• Potentially improve stability (reduce wind risk) over the longer term by strengthening stems and roots through acclimatisation to wider spacing between trees. The earlier stand thinning is carried out, the lower the risk to trees.
• Reduce risk of wildfire if carried out in combination with high pruning, vegetation control and brash and deadwood management.
• May reduce risk of growth reductions or mortality during drought periods.
• May reduce drought risk to established trees by reducing competition for water, but can increase the risk to young or shallow rooted trees by removing protective shade.
• Reduce the impact of Dothistroma needle blight by increasing air movement and reducing humidity. Crown thinning increases air movement within the canopy and reduces humidity, which, combined with lower basal areas, can reduce rates of infection.