Continuous cover forestry in Europe: usage and the knowledge gaps and challenges to wider adoption

Abstract There is increasing interest across Europe in adopting forest management strategies, which promote species and structural diversity through the use of irregular silvicultural systems, an approach often described as continuous cover forestry (CCF). However, there little information about proportion CCF practised continent or knowledge gaps other obstacles that limit its use. A survey respondents 33 European countries sought to address these issues. The results indicated systems associated with were single stem, group selection shelterwood. Rotational (RFM) was more frequent than 66 per cent countries, whereas 25 reverse true. We estimated between 22 30 forests are managed CCF, although good data lacking. main were: uncertainties arising from climate change (e.g. appropriate choice, carbon storage CCF), using increase resilience, deployment mechanized harvesting lack amongst professional foresters better on economic implications this approach. Major included: awareness owners, limited competence within profession a scarcity skilled workers implement approach, high ungulate populations damaging natural regeneration, sawmilling sector geared processing medium-sized logs, subsidy regimes favouring practices RFM experience transforming plantation diverse structures. Better different essential allow policymakers stakeholders monitor progress diversifying forests. Establishment continental network long-term operational trials expanding existing Association Futaie Irrégulière network) would improve understanding demonstrate owners could provide valuable platform for supporting research.