Investigating the effects of some physiographic and edaphic factors influencing snow damage on trees: a case study of Boyabat Forest Enterprise

Since climatic anomalies create conditions to which living organisms are not accustomed, unexpected results are likely to occur. One such anomaly, heavy snowfall, when experienced unexpectedly, constitute serious damage in tree(s) as well as in stands, due to heavy snow accumulation on branches and crown(s). The degree of damage increases when freezing rain and high winds are combined with snow accumulations. The damage consists of branch and stem breakage, bending, bole splitting and uprooting. The risk of damage increases in late Spring and early Fall when snowfalls are tend to be wetter and heavier. All tree species, broadleaved or coniferous of any age and size are susceptible to snow damage. The degree of damage can be minimized if sound procedures are applied while managing forests. In the scope of this particular study, the factors affecting the damage happened in the Winter of 2014-2015 in Yediçam and Bürnük Forest Directorates compartments within Boyabat Forest Enterprise of Kastamonu Regional Directorate of Forestry was investigated. In addition to the number of trees, volume, basal area in ha, tree density and age as stand parameters, which surfaced as the results of intensive forest management practices, and slope, site class and soil depth as site parameters were found in relation to the snow damage.