Peat-based forests and boreal forestry pose challenges

 
One third of Finland’s forestry lands is on peatland. Silvicultural measures aim to remedy and manage old drainage areas where it is economically feasible. Mires in a pristine state are no longer drained for forestry.
 
Forestry on peatland sites requires that both the status of both water and nutrients are suitable for tree growth. Harvesting and silvicultural works are often merged with remedial drainage and protection of watercourses. Surface-runoff areas provide the best means of stopping solid matter from entering water systems.
 
Peatland forestry involves some special features, e.g. poor carrying capacity and open ditches. The nutrient status often differs from that of mineral soils. These features need to be taken into account in planning and implementation. The amount of transpiring growing stock and the condition of the ditches have an effect on the groundwater level of peatland forests.
 
The cold and humid climate plays a central role in forestry in Northern Finland. For example, the abundant accumulation of snow on trees prevents pine stands from being established in highland areas. Consequently, spruce is the main species regenerated on these sites as it is less susceptible to the damage caused by snow-packing.