Situation of Erosion, Landslide, and Limiting Factors of Vegitation Recovery on Abandoned Clear-cut Sites in Kyushu Region

Abstract

Since 1990’s, In Kyushu region, the abandonment of sites after clear-cutting plantations is increasing rapidly in Japan. Abandoned clear-cut sites may result in reduced soil and water conservation. In this study, we investigated erosions, landslides and factors limiting vegetation recovery (e.g. Damage caused by browsing by sika deer and invasion by bamboo and luxuriant vine species) in 199 abandoned clear-cut sites in the Kyushu region. Among 199 sites, 8 sites (4.2%) showed severe erosions and landslides. However, 125 sites (62.8%) showed some factors limiting vegetation recovery. Thus, the abandoned clear-cut sites are problematic, and browsing by sika deer and invasion by bamboo or vine may add limiting vegetation recovery to this problem, although a few of severe erosions and landslides currently.