The art and science of silviculture involve managing the establishment, growth, composition, health, and quality of forests and woodlands to sustainably meet the various needs and values of landowners and society, such as those related to wildlife habitat, timber, water resources, restoration, and recreation. Different silvicultural practices, including thinning, harvesting, planting, pruning, regulated burning, and site preparation, are used to achieve this. After establishment or regeneration and before the ultimate harvest, intermediate treatments (thinning) are intended to improve the stand's growth, quality, vigor, and composition.
Synonyms: afforestation, arboriculture, dendrology, forestation, sylviculture
