Certified Forester Practice Exam

The term "old-growth forest" refers to forests that have developed over a significant period without significant disturbance, which allows for complex ecosystems to evolve. These forests are typically characterized by a diverse array of tree ages and species, large trees, and a multilayered canopy that supports a wide variety of wildlife. The stability provided by the long time span without substantial human interference or natural catastrophes enables a rich biodiversity and ecological processes to thrive.

In contrast, young forests are not classified as old-growth because they lack the historical depth and ecological development. Regularly clear-cut forests are managed for timber production, which disrupts the ecological processes necessary for the establishment of old-growth characteristics. Similarly, forests containing only a single tree species do not represent the complexity and biodiversity typically associated with old-growth forests. Thus, the defining characteristics focus on the age, stability, and ecological richness of these unique forest ecosystems.