Site Preparation: Microsite Selection and Planting Stock Performance

Site preparation plays a vital role in British Columbia’s regeneration program (Figure 1). Historically, prescribed fire has been the tool most commonly used to satisfy the needs of both hazard abatement and site preparation. Recently, the use of fire has decreased relative to other options (Figure 2), due to the increased cost of burning, the increased public concern in areas sensitive to smoke, changes in the policy regulating burning, and a significant increase in viable treatment alternatives. An increased mechanical site preparation (MSP) program combined with the introduction of specialized site preparation April 1994