Soil Natural Recovery Process and Fagus orientalis Lipsky Seedling Growth after Timber Extraction by Wheeled Skidder

The growth and quality of natural seedlings are important goals forest management in uneven-aged high stands. In this study, the recovery process physical chemical properties soil, as well variables beech on skid trails after skidding operations three time periods (10, 20, 30 years) were investigated Hyrcanian forests Iran. Results revealed that soil (organic C, total N, pH) fully recovered 20 years, while (bulk density, porosity, penetration resistance) not yet even years. values characteristics (stem root system) index statistically different from those control area ones According to our findings, recovering is long takes more than Considering effect compaction can have seedling establishment growth, proper planning operation needed limit negative effects operations, which meets requirements sustainable management. We suggest designing with a minimum distance 140 m each other longitudinal slope less 15%, compliance principles best practice (BMP).