Determination of ecology based rotation length of naturally distributed pure oriental beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky.) stands (example of Sinop-Ayancik-Türkeli)

Aim of this study was to determine the ecology based rotation length of naturally distributed pure oriental beech stands in Sinop Regional Directorate of Forestry; these oriental beech stands cover 23.2% of Sinop forests and 9% of all forest area of Turkey. Pure oriental beech stands located in Sinop Regional Directorate of Forestry area, western Black Sea region, are important due to their forest site characteristics. Thus, Sinop province Sinop, Ayancık and Turkeli Directorate of Forestry areas where oriental beech naturally distributed was chosen as study area. Altitude-climate zones (0-800m and 800-1200m), potential utilization characteristics and age related stem problems were investigated.Lower zone (0-800m) rotation length for pure Oriental beech stands within Sinop General Directorate of Forestry borders was 87 years and mean age for heart rot was 60 while on higher zone (800-1200m) rotation length was 90 years and mean age for heart rot was 87. Rotation length for pure Oriental beech stands within Ayancık General Directrate of Forestry borders was 98 years and mean age for heart rot was 67 for lower zone (400-800m) while on higher zone (800-1200m) rotation length was 109 years and mean age for heart rot was 61. Rotation length for pure Oriental beech stands within Türkeli General Directrate of Forestry borders was 72 years and mean age for heart rot was 53 for lower zone (400-800m) while on higher zone (800-1200m) rotation length was 102 years and mean age for heart rot was 70.