Forest recovery after logging in lowland dense rimu forest, Westland, New Zealand

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Abstract
Forest recovery after logging in some lowland dense rimu forests of central and south Westland, New Zealand, was examined. Forest structure and composition were measured in three stands clear-felled 12, 31, and 54 years prior to the study. Most of the floristic changes occurred immediately after logging. Subsequent changes were largely structural as different species outgrew and suppressed previous dominants. For the three dominant post-logging canopy species (Weinmannia racemosa, Quintinia acutifolia, and Dacrydiwn cupressinum), 43% of stems examined had established prior to logging. Although the transition from mature closed forest to a disturbed site following logging is very rapid compared to that occurring during stand replacement in unlogged forest, it appears that the logged areas are likely to return to a condition similar to that before logging if left undisturbed (e.g., by fire or “enrichment” planting). These regenerating forests therefore represent a valuable resource for conservation, especially in areas with little remaining unlogged forest.