Landslide Reforestation and Erosion Control in the Queen Charlotte Islands, B.C.

Authors
William Beese
Resource Date:
1984
Page Length
17

Control of sedimentation in anadromous fish bearing waters from surface erosion of landslides, and reforestation of large debris slide tracks, are two major concerns of land managers in the mountainous, high rainfall forest lands of the Queen Charlotte Islands. Results of the initial phases of a project designed to test several methods of landslide rehabilitation are presented. Helicopter hydroseeding of grasses, legumes and fertilizer, followed by planting of several native shrub species and container-grown tree seedlings in several combinations and planting designs, are being tested as methods for controlling surface erosion and establishing a forest crop. Linear versus grid shrub planting designs, and development of stabilizing root networks by various species, are being tested with regard to their effect upon tree growth. Trials will be monitored for five years. Previous erosion control activities in the Queen Charlottes are also reviewed.