Root reinforcement dynamics of European coppice woodlands and their effect on shallow landslides: A review

Vergani, C; Giadrossich, F; Buckley, P; Conedera, M; Pividori, M; Salbitano, F; Rauch, HS; Lovreglio, R; Schwarz, Massimiliano (2017). Root reinforcement dynamics of European coppice woodlands and their effect on shallow landslides: A review Earth-Science Reviews, 167, pp. 88-102. Elsevier 10.1016/j.earscirev.2017.02.002

Text 1-s2.0-S0012825216301611-main.pdf - Published Version Restricted to registered users only Available under License Publisher holds Copyright. Download (2MB) | Request a copy

The high stem density of coppice stands, their rapid growth and the permanence of root systems in the soil can be considered as assets in terms of protective function. However, these considerations are poorly researched and there is generally a lack of studies investigating the suitability of coppice as protection forests. The issue is relevant, considering that many coppice stands in mountain regions have become uneconomic and are now abandoned and overaged. Whether and how to manage these forests stands is a key question for practitioners. In this contribution we analyze the implications of coppice management for slope stability and in particular to mitigate shallow landslides, focusing on root reinforcement, the main mechanism by which vegetation can reinforce slopes. We review available studies concerning root distribution and dynamics in coppice stands to formulate hypotheses about their contribution in terms of root reinforcement. Finally we highlight the lacks of knowledge and the further steps needed to properly evaluate the effectiveness of the coppices in protecting against shallow landslides.

Item Type:	Journal Article (Original Article)
Division/Institute:	School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences HAFL > Multifunctional Forest Management
Name:	Vergani, C; Giadrossich, F; Buckley, P; Conedera, M; Pividori, M; Salbitano, F; Rauch, HS; Lovreglio, R and Schwarz, Massimiliano0000-0003-4652-8102
Subjects:	S Agriculture > SD Forestry
ISSN:	00128252
Publisher:	Elsevier
Language:	English
Submitter:	Simon Lutz
Date Deposited:	04 Nov 2019 14:38
Last Modified:	18 Dec 2020 13:29
Publisher DOI:	10.1016/j.earscirev.2017.02.002
ARBOR DOI:	10.24451/arbor.8356
URI:	https://arbor.bfh.ch/id/eprint/8356