Impact of forest edge shape on tree stability: a large-eddy simulation study

Authors: Dupont, Sylvain; Brunet, Yves

Source: Forestry, Volume 81, Number 3, 19 July 2008 , pp. 299-315(17)

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Abstract:

As forest edges are often associated with wind damage, it may be of interest to modify the edge region in order to reduce wind-induced risks. To this purpose, this study investigates tree vulnerability to wind load downwind from leading edges designed with various treatments: sharp, tapered, sparse, dense, tall and small edges. Using a large-eddy simulation flow model, instantaneous wind and turbulence fields are simulated on either side of each edge. These fields are then used to compute mean and extreme tree bending moments as well as their ratio, the gust factor. The behaviour of these variables downwind from the edge agrees well with previous wind tunnel measurements. The gust factor increases at some distance behind the edge, due to the development of coherent eddy structures generated at the canopyair interface. Unlike wind gusts in the vicinity of the edge, these structures penetrate deep within the canopy through sweep motions. Tree vulnerability is slightly reduced downwind from tapered, sparse and small edges and enhanced downwind from dense ones. Behind tall edges, the gust factor is reduced in the edge region but enhanced further downstream due to the interaction of the canopy with the wake of the edge treatment

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/forestry/cpn006

Publication date: 2008-07-19

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Forestry publishes refereed papers on all aspects of research, practice and policy that promote the sustainable development of forests, woodlands and trees. In considering suitability for publication attention is given to both the originality of contributions and their practical application. Preference is usually given to work undertaken in the temperate and/or boreal zones; only articles of exceptional merit from tropical zones will also be considered.