“Forestry is not a matter of choosing one type of tree over another. The goal should be to create a mosaic of farm paddocks and trees which enhances both economic returns and environmental sustainability,” says James Treadwell, President of the New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF). “We need to think about forestry in a holistic manner, placing trees where they will deliver the greatest benefits.”

This is in response to the Why Pines? A Context for Recent Research Results paper from the Our Land and Water science challenge which is “important research providing a valuable context for understanding the role of pine forestry in New Zealand’s landscape, particularly in terms of land conversion and economic viability”, says Mr Treadwell.

While the NZIF acknowledges the insights presented, he says the discussion should not be limited to a binary choice between pine and other types of trees. Instead, the focus should be on the strategic incorporation of a wide range of tree species into New Zealand’s landscapes.

The NZIF advocates for an approach where plantation species, such as pines, are integrated into farms on less productive land. These trees can contribute to New Zealand's emissions trading scheme (ETS) and serve as a valuable future timber resource. In parallel, native trees and long-lived species should be prioritised in riparian zones, on steep and highly erodible land, and in areas of farms where harvesting would be uneconomic, he says. These native plantings play a critical role in enhancing biodiversity, protecting waterways, and stabilising soils, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem. They can also be entered into the ETS, providing the landowner with income. 

“A practical rule of thumb to guide landowners might be that trees should be planted in areas where sheep and beef are creating contour tracks around hillsides. This approach not only supports sustainable land use but also promotes biodiversity and enhances the resilience of the landscape,” says Mr Treadwell.

For more on Why Pines, get your copy of the October 2024 edition of NZ Logger magazine, on sale from 30 September. Check the link on this page to subscribe to either a printed or digital copy (or both).