Carbon stock recovery from tree regeneration following selective logging in tropical forest of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Abstract

Abstract Selective logging in the tropics results in carbon emissions but also creates favourable environmental conditions for the regeneration of tree species and carbon recovery. We evaluate tree regeneration and recovery of biomass in selectively logged forests impacted by timber harvesting on the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. Fieldwork was conducted in two annual cutting areas logged in 2001 and 2009. Plots were established in felling, skidding and log landing sites. Regeneration of functional tree groups characterized by their growth, light demand, timber use, and recovery rates of biomass and carbon were assessed. Regeneration of 68 tree species in 54 genera and 27 families were found. Of these, 50% corresponded to marketable timber species. There was a greater presence of light-demanding seedlings and species in both annual cutting areas. Carbon recovery five and thirteen years after logging was 50.6 Mg ha−1 and 62.7 Mg ha−1, respectively, reflecting an annual gain of 1.51 Mg ha−1. Felling sites presented the highest diversity and carbon recovery and contained the highest quantity of trees >5 cm DBH and proportion of shade-tolerant species, providing a variety of future crop trees. Low logging intensity and practices that reduce impacts can result in the successful recovery of timber species and forest carbon. Key policy highlights Community managed forests recover carbon rapidly after low intensity selective logging and serve as carbon reserves. Low intensity selective logging with reduced impact logging practices minimizes harvest disturbance and allows for natural regeneration of timber species. Carbon recovery and capture after selective logging under low intensities provides economic and social opportunities through carbon offset projects.