This guide presents site identification and interpretation information for forest ecosystems of the Vancouver Forest Region. Site identification is based on the biogeoclimatic ecosystem classification. The guide was prepared to assist users in describing and identifying forest sites and to provide management interpretations to assist users in preparing stand-level forest management prescriptions. The guide covers procedures for site assessment, a description of the biogeoclimatic units and the site units of the Vancouver Forest Region, management interpretations of tree species selection, slashburning, site productivity, competing vegetation potential, ground-based harvesting, pest risks of major conifer species, and wildlife diversity and habitat relationships. Appendices list indicator species; humus forms; keys to bedrock, hand-texturing soil, relative soil moisture regime, soil nutrient regime, and site sensitivity to slashburning; correlation of old and new biogeoclimatic and site units; and a site assessment form.

This guide has two main goals: to assist users in classifying sample forest ecosystem sites in the field in the south-east Prince George Forest Region; and to provide interpretations for these site units that will assist in preparing management prescriptions. Following the introduction is a brief discussion of the biogeoclimatic classification system. Chapter 3 contains procedures for site description, identification, mapping, & interpretation. Chapters 4 to 11 present information about the biogeoclimatic units in the Region, tools for identification of biogeoclimatic & site units, descriptions of the site units, and direct management interpretations for the identified site units. Chapter 12 provides indirect interpretations for silvicultural systems and site preparation options, as well as some basic information on ecosystem management.

This Field guide describes the ecological units of the Rocky Mountain Trench, Prince George Forest Region. It represents aides to the identification of these units and management interpretations for each.

This guidebook has been prepared to help forest resource managers plan, prescribe, and implement sound forest practices that comply with the British Columbia Forest Practices Code. The information provided is to help users exercise their professional judgment in developing site-specific management strategies and prescriptions to accommodate resource management objectives in the Vancouver Forest Region. The first section of the guidebook covers the legislative authority, background, definitions, and procedures for species selection, stocking (including maximum density for conifers), establishment, and free growing. It also includes a listing of the relevant sections of the Code. The second section includes criteria tables for regional forest establishment and information for determination of free growing. The third section contains background and support information, forest health charts, and free growing damage standards.