FORESTRY PLANNING PLATFORM FOR SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT ON A CASE-BY-CASE BASIS

Abstract

 The present invention is a platform for indicating customized forestry practices for eucalyptus plantation management, in the different stages of stand development and for the different edaphoclimatic conditions existing in Portugal. This platform based on geographic information systems is intended to be user-friendly and devoted mainly for forestry companies, forest owners organizations and private forest producers.
A user-friendly internet platform that considers the compatibility between each soil type and its productive capability, applying the best practices for its tillage and fertilization, will increase productivity and contribute to the sustainability of the forest production ecosystem. Among other contents, it is provided technical forestry indications in a case-by-case basis that cover the different stages of stands growth, from planting to maintenance until the cutting age, and coppice regime. By providing data on the land, being its location the only essential requirement, the user will have access to a technical indication tailored to his specific case.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to a eucalyptus forest management platform, particularly directed to Eucalyptus globulus, that provides technical indications for the sustainable management of eucalyptus stands in Portugal mainland supported by geographic information systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The world forest-based sector has come to increase significantly last years as a result of world population rising, people quality life improvements and market access of a growing share of world population. More specifically, pulp and paper market which is tailored with increases in products demand like sanitary and kitchen absorbent papers, uncoated wood free printing and writing papers, has been pushing the demand for eucalypt wood production whose supply has been done by both pulp companies itself and by market wood independent producers. In Portugal, although the efforts that have been done to improve forest productivity, there is a wood supply gap of roughly 2.5 million m³ that has been filled by wood importation from Spain, South America and Africa. Recently, the Portuguese government has published a law with some constraints rules including one that limit the expansion of eucalypt plantations. So, to reduce this gap and improve the economics of pulp and paper industry and forestry related players, is essential to improve the forest productivity in a perspective of a sustainable forest management. An effective way to implement such changes in the forest-based sector is to get both forest information and best silvicultural practices accessible to forest owners and producers, industries and universities.

[0003] There are some forest-based online platforms, such as:

• Platform "Melhor Eucalipto" (http://www.celpa.pt/melhoreucalipto/), CELPA, Associação da Industria Papeleira - developed for the eucalyptus industry in order to promote good practices in forest management. This platform provides useful and descriptive information not customized according to the edaphoclimatic conditions of each land. It presents two simulators, one for estimating the productivity of eucalyptus stands in Portugal and another for a financial analysis of the activity.
• Platform "Certifica Mais" (http://www.certificamais.pt/), AIFF, Associação Para a Competitividade das Indústrias da Fileira Florestal - developed for cork, eucalyptus and pine related value chain, aims the support to forest certification.
• Platform "myForest" (https://sylva.org.uk/myforest/), SYLVA Foundation
• developed for supporting a sustainable forest management in the United Kingdom. This platform has about 4800 users comprising an area of over 60 thousand ha. SYLVA Foundation operates in a forest scenario that differs from the Portuguese one.

[0004] These platforms do not, therefore, cover the options contemplated by the present invention. So, there is not yet, in Portugal, an easy-to-get tool for customized technical indication for eucalyptus forest management that addresses the different stages of stand development and considers the site specific edaphoclimatic conditions (combination of site climate variables and soil characteristics that directly influences its productivity). The data is integrated in geographic information systems. The invention is user-friendly and devoted mainly to forestry companies, forest owners organizations, private forest producers and universities.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] This innovative platform is intended to be user-friendly, considering, among other contents, technical indications of forestry practices that cover the different stages of stands development, such as planting, maintenance and coppicing. By entering data on the land, being its location the only required input for integration into geographic information systems, the user will be able to access a technical indication tailored to his specific case. Given the diversity of soil and climate conditions that characterize Portugal, the customized technical indication will be an important aspect for increasing the productivity of eucalyptus stands (particularly E. globulus) and for sustainable forest management.

[0006] The platform described in this invention presents itself as an innovative tool aiming mainly the increase of eucalyptus stands productivity in Portugal, combining it with the sustainability of the forest production ecosystem.

[0007] In this way, it addresses and intends to solve two very important shortcomings, already clearly identified: (i) the lack of forest management in about two thirds of eucalyptus stands in Portugal: Celpa, based on four inventories and 1267 parcels, noticed that only 34% of the parcels had management (CELPA, 2011); (ii) there is a structural deficit of eucalyptus wood supply in Portugal of about 2.5 million m³/ year, making imports necessary and with a significant impact on the external accounts, of around 186 million euros according to the National Institute of Statistics INE, IP.

[0008] Given the diversity of existing soil and climate conditions in Portugal, the forestry practices to be adopted should be compatible with each site condition, optimizing resources management and the cost-effectiveness of the implemented practices. To promote plant growth while contributing for the improvement and conservation of other ecological functions of the ecosystem, such as mitigation of the greenhouse effect (by carbon sequestration), protection of soil from erosive events, maintenance of biodiversity and preservation of water resources, it is essential that soil tillage and other forestry practices pursue precise technical criteria.

[0009] Making this information available on a user-friendly internet platform that considers the compatibility between each type of soil and its productive capability, the effectiveness of the best practices available for its tillage and fertilization, will increase productivity and contribute to the sustainability of the forest production ecosystem.

[0010] In addition to an online library on eucalyptus and other contents, this tool considers indications of forestry practices that cover the different stages of stands development (planting, maintenance and coppice management) . By entering data on the land, being its location the only required input for integration into geographic information systems, the user will have access to a technical indication tailored to his specific case. Given the diversity of soil and climate conditions that characterize Portugal, the customized indication will be an important aspect for increasing the productivity of eucalyptus stands and for a sustainable forest management.

[0011] Improvements in the management of eucalyptus stands at a Portuguese national level are thus promoted, with the prospect of a sustained increase in stands productivity and returning greater economic incomes to the sector.

[0012] The implementation of this platform is expected to have a significant impact on the Portuguese economy, as the forestry industry and, in particular, the pulp and paper industry play a relevant role in the national industrial production and in the exportation of high value-added products, representing approximately 4% of exports and 1.5% of the national GDP. In addition, around 35% of the Portuguese continental territory is forested (National Forest Inventory, IFN6, 2013), whose dominant species is eucalyptus with an area of 812 thousand hectares (26%). Eucalyptus forest exploration is mainly destined for wood production for supplying the national pulp and paper industry.

[0013] Two thirds of the national eucalyptus forest has low management or no forest management (CELPA, 2011). In addition, the fact that there are around 400,000 forest owners in the country, considering the totality of the national forest (Association for Forestry Industry Competitiveness, AIFF, 2013), and that most of the forest areas are small, represented by smallholdings, these factors hinder forest management and the best use of forest areas. In this field, by contrast, forest owner organizations throughout the country are playing a relevant role in improving forest management, the profitability of the activity for the forest producer and the economy of the sector as a whole.

[0014] Considering the market study carried out by CELPA (2016) that revealed that about 96% of the players in the sector (forest owners organizations and forest service providers) feel the need to use a forestry support service, it is expected that also forestry companies will use this platform as a tool for supporting forest management, simplifying the activities of planning and implementation of forestry practices to be applied on a case-by-case basis in eucalyptus stands in Portugal.

[0015] A good acceptance and use by target audience of the proposed invention is thus anticipated. It is estimated that the platform will assist forest management of at least 10% of the eucalyptus planted area in Portugal by the end of the 1^st year of platform implementation and 25% of the eucalyptus planted area by the end of the fifth year.

[0016] Other benefits of using this platform are related to the environmental improvement of forest production ecosystems, as proper and sustainable forest management also contributes to the improvement and conservation of other ecological functions, such as mitigation of the greenhouse effect (carbon sequestration), soil protection against erosion, maintenance of biodiversity and preservation of water resources.

[0017] Several technical effects are also associated with this platform, namely facilitating the automated assessment of a wide range of forestry complex parameters in an easy and fast way, not achievable outside a computational context, with a reasonable use of computational resources, operations and memory.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] 

Figure 1 - General schematic representation of the process of generation of the different types of technical indications.
Legend:

CM : Coppice management

CM-F : Coppice management - Fertilization

CM-T : Coppice management - Thinning

CM-WC : Coppice management - Weed control

CO : Current occupation

ESE : Eucalyptus stand establishment

ESE-ST : Eucalyptus stand establishment - Soil tillage

ESE-PT : Eucalyptus stand establishment - Planting time

ESE-SS : Eucalyptus stand establishment - Spacing and stocking

ESE-PS : Eucalyptus stand establishment - Plant selection

ESE-PF : Eucalyptus stand establishment - Planting fertilization

Euc. : Eucalyptus (greater than 75%)

Euc. Mixed : Mixed (more than 50% eucalyptus and others

FRM : First rotation management

FRM-MF : First rotation management - Maintenance fertilization

FRM-WC : First rotation management - Weed control

RTI : Request technical indication

SL : Select land

TI : Technical indication

Figure 2 - General schematic representation of the technical indications for eucalypt stand establishment (soil tillage).
Legend:

Euc. : Eucalyptus (greater than 75%)

Euc. Mixed : Mixed (more than 50%) eucalyptus and others species

He : Heavy

Hi: High

L-M : Light to medium

L-NE : Low to non-existent

M : Moderate

NT : Without terrace

rsw : Classify risk of soil waterlogging

slo : Choose slope

ST : Indicate soil texture

stm : Indicate n° stumps

TI : Technical indication

tlp : Type of land preparation

tw : Tread width

WT : With terrace

Figure 3 - General schematic representation of the technical indications for stand establishment (planting fertilization, planting time, plant selection and spacing/stocking).
Legend:

AIf : Allows indication for

A-L : Absent to low

AR : Abiotic risk

BR : Biotic risk

C+ Suitable climatic condition for eucalyptus growth

C- Unfavorable weather condition for eucalyptus growth

C0 Very unfavorable weather condition for eucalyptus growth

Cla : Classify in

Gon : Gonipterus

Hi : High

HI-VHi : High/Very high

Iat : Indication adjusted to

L(car) : Location (cartography)

L-M : Low to moderate

L-NE : Low to non-existent

M : Moderate

NT : Without terraces

P+ : Estimated wood production over 10 m³ per hectare per year

P- : Estimated wood production below 10 m³ per hectare per year

P0 : Very unfavorable edaphoclimatic condition to wood production

PF : Planting fertilization

Pho : Phoracantha

PlgD : Polygon drawing

Prod : Productivity

PS : Plant selection

PT : Planting time

RI : Require information from

RLIb : Requires location information by

S+ : Favorable soil characteristics for eucalyptus growth

S- : Unfavorable soil characteristics for eucalyptus growth

S0 : Very unfavorable soil characteristics for eucalyptus growth

SS : Spacing and stocking

ST : Soil tillage

SW : Soil waterlogging

Ter : Teratosphaeria

tlp : Type of land preparation

UShp : Upload shapefile

WT : With terraces

Figure 4 - General schematic representation of the technical indications for 1^st rotation maintenance management (maintenance fertilization).
Legend:

Act : Activate

AD1 : Indicate if you did first fertilization maintenance

Age : Indicate age (years)

Bmap : Boron map

Ch : Choose

CPPN : Chemical physical parameters Nutriglobus

EProd : Expected productivity

GVDD : Guide visual diagnosis deficiency

If act : If activate

Ind : Indicate

Ind.iym : Indicate if you made

Int : Intend

Loc : Location

MF : Maintenance fertilization

M-Hi : Medium to high

Nr : No recommendation

Nutri : Nutriglobus

PD : Pests and diseases

PhF : Phosphate fertilization

Rmbd : Risk map boron deficiency

Rmcd : Risk map calcium deficiency

SA : With soil analysis

WC : Weed control

Figure 5 - General schematic representation of technical indications for coppice management (thinning and fertilization).
Legend:

1ST : Indicate if you did 1^st stems thinning

Act : Activate

AD1 : Indicate if you did first fertilization maintenance

Age : Indicate age (years)

AR : Advisable reforestation. Do you want to continue?

ESE : Eucalypt stand establishment

F : Fertilization

GVDD : Guide visual diagnosis deficiency

Ind : Indicate

L(car): Location (cartography)

P+ : Estimated wood production over 10 m³ per hectare per year

P- : Estimated wood production below 10 m³ per hectare per year

P0 : Very unfavorable edaphoclimatic condition to wood production

RefT : Refers to

Rot : Rotation

SAge : Stand age (years)

ST : Stems thinning

Stm : Indicate n° stumps

WC : Weed control

Figure 6 - General schematic representation of technical indications for 1^st rotation maintenance management (weed control, stands without terraces).
Legend:

%occ : Indicate % of occupancy

+20occ : +20% occupancy

BPL : Between plantation lines

Hei : Indicate of height

Herb : Herbaceous

Inv : Invasive

Mat : Mature

NT : Without terraces

Oth : Others

PL : Plantation lines

Rot : Rotation

SAge : Stand age (years)

Sh-arb : Shrubby and arboreal

Sta : Indicate the status

tlp : Type of land preparation

VL : Indicate the vegetation location

VT : Indicate vegetation type

WT : With terraces

You : Young

Figure 7 - General schematic representation of technical indications for 1^st rotation maintenance management (weed control, stands with terraces).
Legend:

%occ : Indicate % of occupancy

+20occ : +20% occupancy

Hei : Indicate of height

Herb : Herbaceous

Inv : Invasive

Mat : Mature

NT : Without terraces

Oth : Others

Rot : Rotation

SAge : Stand age (years)

Sh-arb : Shrubby and arboreal

Sta : Indicate the status

tlp : Type of land preparation

VT : Indicate vegetation type

WT : With terraces

You : Young

Figure 8 - General schematic representation of the technical indications for coppice management (weed control).
Legend:

%occ : Indicate % of occupancy

BPL : Between plantation lines

Herb : Herbaceous

Inv : Invasive

NT : Without terraces

PL : Plantation lines

Rot : Rotation

SAge : Stand age (years)

Sh-arb : Shrubby and arboreal

VT : Indicate vegetation type

tlp : Type of land preparation

VL : Indicate the vegetation location

WT : With terraces

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The platform features a trial version in which the user is led into the "see-believe" experience without the need for any personal or land data input. If the user would like a technical indication for its specific case, the user is encouraged to create a login account.

[0020] After this registration step, by entering the land data, being essential only its location for integration in the geographic information systems, the user will have access to a technical indication tailored to his specific case. Given the diversity of edaphoclimatic conditions that characterize Portugal mainland, the customized indication will be an important aspect for forest sustainability.

[0021] The platform is implemented using computational means. It is based on a connection to a communication network, processing, memory and database units, which can be accessed by the provider server via technical indication by the user via a user terminal of any computer and computing means such as a personal computer, tablet and smartphone. Each customized technical indication is supported by geographic information systems that recognize spatial databases with data of eucalyptus forestry management which was achieved over several years of research and operational development. Also platform databases gathers users registration information, the geographical location of the land (s), specificities of the land (s) and the technical indications requested for different stages of eucalyptus stand development (establishment, maintenance and coppice regime).

[0022] The user is required to enter its land (s), by drawing landmarks using a mapping service that uses satellite imagery and aerial photography such as Google Maps. Alternatively, the user may wish to upload a vector file. Next, the user should characterize its land (s) according to its current occupation, the characteristics of the soil and land (s), the presence and type of spontaneous vegetation.

[0023] The user may finish his undertaking at the land characterization stage or, if the user wishes, may proceed to request a technical indication. The indication is only possible if land's current occupation is eucalyptus (≥ 75% occupancy) or mixed eucalyptus (although not occupying 75% of the total cover, eucalyptus is dominant over other species present). All other possible occupations will not allow the generation of any technical indication.

[0024] All the provided information transmitted by the user is stored on the available databases. The provider server accesses the information at the databases on user (s) registration information, geographical location of the land (s) and specificities of the land (s) and on the technical indication of forestry practices, and then distributes the required technical indication of forestry practices to the user terminal.

[0025] The following technical indications are intended for eucalyptus or mixed eucalyptus stands hereinafter referred to as eucalyptus only and are subject to updating according to the best available information (as a result, for example, of a technological or methodological update). Then, the user has to choose what silviculture practice is intended, namely:

• planting (eucalyptus stand establishment) - planting and start-up of a stand and all inherent operations;
• maintenance (1^st rotation) - succeeds the planting stage and goes until the time of the 1^st clearcut. Thus, this occurs in the 1^st growth cycle of a stand also called 1^st rotation lasting approximately 10-12 years-old;
• coppice regime - after the 1^st clearcutting of an eucalyptus stand, it usually has the ability to regenerate, allowing the stand to be driven through another growth cycle, i.e. one or more rotations, thus being designated as coppicing.

[0026] Regarding the option of stand establishment (Figures 2 and 3), the user will have access to a technical indication for soil tillage, planting fertilization, genetic material best suited to the edaphoclimatic conditions of the land (s), the most appropriate number of plants per hectare (or stocking) and the most suitable time/season for planting.

[0027] Regarding 1^st rotation maintenance (Figures 4, 6 and 7), technical indication for maintenance fertilization or control of spontaneous vegetation is available. In the case of coppice regime (Figures 5 and 8) this includes indications for maintenance fertilization, thinning (after cutting, the remaining eucalyptus stumps have the ability to stem-sprout and the number of stems will have to be pruned for the sustainability of the ecosystem) and weed control (related with spontaneously growing plant species such as grasses, wild blackberries, brooms, acacia, among others that may compete with eucalyptus) (Figure 1).

[0028] The technical indications provided by platform include, when possible, more than one forestry practice option for the intended purpose in order to allow the users some adjustability in choosing which, in their socio-economic context, suits them best. In addition to the options provided, there is an indication of the respective implementation methodology and some accompanying notes.

EXAMPLES

[0029] In the case of soil tillage for eucalyptus stand establishment, the indication will be affected by the slope and the presence or not of terraces and, eventually, the number of eucalyptus stumps per hectare, the risk of soil waterlogging and soil texture (Figure 2).

[0030] If the land has a slope greater than 25% and has no terraces, the technical indication will be, from a minimum soil tillage practice approach, to proceed with the chemical devitalization of the stumps and localized soil tillage between the stumps or between plantation lines with the opening of planting pits manually (with a hoe, for example) or mechanically (with a drill, for example), for planting according to the established spacing; or mechanical crush of stumps and localized soil tillage by digging manually (with a hoe, for example) or mechanically (with a drill, for example), from a minimum soil tillage practice approach for planting with planter tube, according to the established spacing; or if duly authorized by the competent authorities, crush the stumps mechanically and build the terraces according to the natural land contour line (minimum tread width of 4 meters), followed by digging with a hoe or rip-ploughing with 2 to 3 rippers for planting with planter tube according to the stablished spacing.

[0031] If the land has a slope greater than 25% with terraces (minimum tread width of 4 meters) and a number of eucalyptus stumps per hectare less than or equal to 400, the stumps mechanical crushing shall be indicated and, if needed, also the beneficiation of the terrace (for regularization of its tread), and localized soil tillage manually (with hoe, for example) or mechanically (with a drill, for example), for planting according to the established spacing; or mechanical crushing of the stumps and beneficiation of the terrace (for regularization of its tread), if needed, followed by rip-ploughing with 2 to 3 rippers for subsequent planting with planter tube, according to the established spacing; or chemical devitalization of the stumps and localized soil tillage between stumps, mechanically digging (with a drill, for example) for planting with planter tube or manually (with hoe, for example), according to the established spacing.

[0032] If the land has a slope greater than 25% with terraces (minimum tread width of 4 meters) and a number of eucalyptus stumps per hectare of more than 400, the indication consists on the mechanical crush of the stumps and, if needed, the beneficiation of the terrace (for regularization of its tread), and localized soil tillage manually (with hoe, for example) or mechanically (with a drill, for example), for planting according to the established spacing; or mechanical crushing of the stumps and if needed, the beneficiation of the terrace (for regularization of its tread), followed by rip-ploughing with 2 to 3 rippers for planting with planter tube, according to the established spacing.

[0033] If the land has a slope greater than 25% with terraces (tread width less than 4 meters), the indication should be to beneficiate the terrace for regularization of its tread to a minimum width of 4 meters and proceed to localized soil tillage either by digging manually (with a hoe, for example) or using a planter tube followed by planting, according to the established spacing; or beneficiate the terrace for regularization of its tread to a minimum width of 4 meters and rip-ploughing with 2 to 3 rippers for planting with planter tube, according to the established spacing; or chemical devitalization of the stumps and localized soil tillage between stumps manually by digging (with a hoe, for example) for planting, according to the established spacing.

[0034] If the land has a slope of less than 25% and a risk of soil waterlogging, it has unfavorable conditions for eucalyptus growth. Thus, the indication should alert the user to this fact. If the user wishes to proceed with soil tillage, it is suggested that he may crush mechanically the stumps, if needed, followed by rip-ploughing with 2 to 3 rippers in fishbone pattern, with a slope deviation of about 1% and furrow-hillock workout for planting in the upper third of the small hill. If necessary, it is also suggested to carry out drainage dike(s).

[0035] If the land has a slope between 10% and 25% and a moderate risk of soil waterlogging, the indication consists in a mechanical crush of stumps, if needed, followed by rip-ploughing with 1 ripper in fishbone pattern, with a slope deviation of about 1% for planting, according to the established spacing. If necessary, it is also suggested to carry out drainage dike (s) and soil preparation in furrow-hillock.

[0036] If the land has a slope of less than 25%, a risk of low or no soil waterlogging, a number of eucalyptus stumps per hectare of 400 or less and a light to medium soil texture, the indication consists on a chemical devitalization of the stumps and manually soil tillage (with hoe, for example) for planting or mechanically (with a drill, for example) for planting with planter tube according to the established spacing in a minimum soil tillage practice approach; or mechanical crush of the stumps and manually soil tillage (with a hoe, for example) for planting or mechanically (with a drill, for example) for planting with an planter tube in a minimum soil tillage practice approach, according to the established spacing; or mechanical crushing of the stumps followed by rip-ploughing with 1 to 3 rippers, if the effective soil depth is more than 20 cm or less than 20 cm respectively, respecting natural land contour line for planting with planter tube according to the established spacing.

[0037] If the land has a slope of less than 25%, a low risk or no soil waterlogging, a number of eucalyptus stumps per hectare less than or equal to 400, and a heavy soil texture, it meets unfavorable conditions for eucalyptus growth. Thus, the indication warns the user of the risk of soil compaction, but if the user wishes to proceed with the soil tillage, he may crush mechanically the stumps if needed, followed by rip-ploughing with 3 rippers in fishbone pattern, with a slope deviation of about 1% and furrow-hillock workout for planting in the upper third of the small hill.

[0038] If the land has a slope of less than 25%, a low risk or no soil waterlogging, a number of eucalyptus stumps per hectare of more than 400 and a light to moderate soil texture, stumps mechanical crushing is indicated and manually localized soil tillage (with a hoe, for example) for planting or mechanically (with a drill, for example) for planting with planter tube in a minimum soil tillage practice approach, according to the established spacing; or mechanical crushing of the stumps followed by 1-ripper ploughing respecting the natural land contour line for planting with planter tube, according to the established spacing.

[0039] If the land has a slope of less than 25%, a low or no risk of soil waterlogging, a number of eucalyptus stumps per hectare greater than 400 and a heavy soil texture, it meets unfavorable conditions for eucalyptus growth. Thus, the indication warns the user of the risk of soil compaction, but if the user wishes to proceed with the soil tillage, the user may crush mechanically the stumps if needed, followed by rip-ploughing with 3 rippers in fishbone pattern, with a slope deviation of about 1% and furrow-hillock workout for planting in the upper third of the small hill.

[0040] If the land has a slope of less than 10% and a moderate soil waterlogging risk, the indication consists on mechanical crushing of the stumps, if needed, followed by rip-ploughing with 1 ripper in fishbone pattern, with a slope deviation of about 1% for planting, according to the established spacing. If necessary, the user may carry out drainage dike(s) and soil preparation in furrow-hillock.

[0041] Besides previous technical indications concerning the soil tillage, is added a reference concerning forest harvesting residues management (stumps, branches and tops) or weed control indicating that the user may have to carry out a mechanical approach(using hammer, knife or disc harrow breaker) prior to soil tillage. It is also suggested to request technical indication on the platform for planting spacing and other aspects related to eucalyptus stand establishment. Additionally, it is advised that there may be occupations other than eucalyptus on the land and that in case of occurrence of protected species, the user should establish their protection limits.

[0042] The technical indications for the selection of the most suitable eucalyptus genetic material for a given location ("plant selection") are determined as a function of by site conditions - climate, the productive capability of the soil (based on soil characteristics), possible biotic risks (occurrence of pests or diseases particularly Gonipterus platensis, Phoracantha or Teratosphaeria) and abiotics risks (occurrence of soil waterlogging) (Figure 3).

[0043] If the land presents very unfavorable soil and climate conditions to the growth of E. globulus, the technical indication alert the user to this fact. If the user wishes to advance, it is suggested that he addresses this information when ordering the plants in the nursery.

[0044] If the land presents very adverse soil conditions for E. globulus growth, the technical indication should 1^st alert the user to this fact. If the user wishes to advance, it is suggested that he addresses this information when ordering the plants in the nursery.

[0045] If the land presents very adverse climatic conditions for E. globulus growth and the soil characteristics are suitable, the technical indication should 1^st alert the user to this fact. If the user wishes to advance, it is suggested that he addresses this information when ordering the plants in the nursery.

[0046] Regarding the risk of Gonipterus platensis occurrence in the eucalyptus stand, if the land presents an absent to low risk of occurrence of this pest, this will be the message to be returned to the user in the technical indication; if the land presents a high to very high risk, the technical indication includes this information and suggests its communication to the nursery when ordering the plants.

[0047] With regard to the risk of Phoracantha occurrence in the eucalyptus stand, if the land presents an absent to low occurrence risk, this will be the message to be returned to the user in the technical indication; if the land presents a moderate to very high risk, the technical indication includes this information and suggests its communication to the nursery when ordering the plants.

[0048] Regarding the risk of Teratosphaeria occurrence in the eucalyptus stand, if the land presents a low to moderate risk of occurrence of this disease, this will be the message to be returned to the user in the technical indication; if the land presents a high to very high occurrence risk, the technical indication includes this information and suggests its communication to the nursery when ordering the plants.

[0049] For abiotic hazards, particularly soil waterlogging, if the soil presents a low or no risk of waterlogging, the technical indication will be to inform the user that the land has favorable soil conditions for E. globulus growth. If the soil presents a moderate or high risk of waterlogging, the technical indication includes information that this is an unfavorable condition for E. globulus growth. However, if the user wishes to proceed with the establishment of a eucalyptus stand, it is suggested to set up drainage mitigation practices within soil tillage execution.

[0050] The most appropriate eucalyptus planting period in Portugal mainland is during Spring or Autumn seasons when there is greater availability of water in the soil and milder temperatures. This is the information that is generated by the platform under request (Figure 3).

[0051] To reach an indication of planting fertilization for a eucalyptus stand establishment, this will depend on the climate condition for E. globulus growth in Portugal mainland (Figure 3).

[0052] Fertilization at stand establishment is referred to as planting fertilization. This uses NPK formulation fertilizers (fertilizer consisting of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) which may be present in different proportions and contain other nutrients), among other fertilizers.

[0053] If the climatic conditions are unfavorable to eucalyptus growth (e.g. hot to very hot summer, reduced average annual rainfall), the technical indication is that the user may apply 30 g of a NPK formulation controlled release fertilizer 14-12-9 +0.1% B (or similar) + 100 g single superphosphate (18% P₂O₅); or 30 g NPK 14-12-9 controlled release fertilizer + 0.1% B (or similar) + 50 g triple superphosphate (42% P₂O₅); or 60 g of a controlled release fertilizer of formulation NPK 11-22-9 (or similar) (indicative amount per plant and controlled release fertilizer 100% coated).

[0054] If the climatic conditions are favorable to eucalyptus growth (e.g. moderate to fresh summer, annual average rainfall greater than 1000 mm) the technical indication consists of 30 g of a controlled release fertilizer of NPK formulation 14-12-9 + 0.1 % B (or similar) + 120 g single superphosphate (18% P₂O₅); or 30 g of a NPK 14-12-9 controlled release fertilizer + 0.1% B (or similar) + 60 g of triple superphosphate (42% P₂O₅) (indicative amount per plant and controlled release fertilizer 100 % coated).

[0055] If the climatic conditions are very adverse to the growth of E. globulus, the user is warned but may wish to proceed anyway, in which case the indication results in one of the following practices: 30 g of a controlled release fertilizer of formulation NPK 14-12-9 + 0.1% B (or similar) + 100 g single superphosphate (18% P₂O₅); or 30 g NPK 14-12-9 controlled release fertilizer + 0.1% B (or similar) + 50 g triple superphosphate (42% P₂O₅) ; or 60 g of a controlled release fertilizer of formulation NPK 11-22-9 (or similar) (indicative amount per plant and controlled release fertilizer 100 % coated).

[0056] The spacing and stocking of an eucalyptus stand is affected by the type of land preparation (whether or not there are terraces) and the estimated wood productivity for the site (Figure 3).

[0057] In the case of an eucalyptus stand set up in a terraced area (respecting the natural land contour line) and with an estimated production of E. globulus wood of less than 10 m³ without bark solid per hectare and year, the indication generated is that the eucalyptus stand can hold between 980 and 1400 plants per hectare depending on the distance between terraces, and the minimum advised inter-plant distance on the planting line (planting along an alignment previously outlined) is 1.7 m.

[0058] In the case of an eucalyptus stand established in a terraced area and with an estimated production of E. globulus wood greater than 10 m³ without bark per hectare and year, the indication generated is that the eucalyptus stand may comprise between 980 and 1600 plants per hectare depending on the distance between terraces, and the minimum recommended distance between plants on the planting line is 1.7 m.

[0059] In the case of an eucalyptus stand establishment in an area without terraces and with an estimated production of E. globulus wood of less than 10 m³ without bark per hectare per year, the indication generated is that the eucalyptus stand may comprise between 1250 and 1400 plants per hectare, and the minimum recommended distance between plants on the plantation line is 1.7 m.

[0060] In the case of an eucalyptus stand set up in an area without terraces and with estimated production of E. globulus wood greater than 10 m³ without bark per hectare per year, the indication generated is that the eucalyptus stand may comprise between 1400 and 1600 plants per hectare, and the minimum recommended distance between plants on the plantation line is 1.7 m.

[0061] If an eucalyptus stand is established in an area with conditions that are very adverse to eucalyptus growth, regardless of the land preparation (with or without terraces), the user is advised of that, but may still wish to proceed, in which case the indication generated is that the stand can admit up to 1400 plants per hectare, and the minimum recommended distance between plants in the plantation line is 1.7 m.

[0062] The indication for maintenance fertilization considers as variables the age of the stand, the number and type of previous fertilization practices, the climatic conditions, the soil characteristics and the risk of calcium and boron deficiency (Figure 4).

[0063] If the user requests a technical indication for maintenance fertilization (in 1^st rotation) and the age of the stand is less than 1 year-old, the indication shall state that, given the age of the stand, no fertilization is foreseen. The 1^st maintenance fertilization should only occur between 1 and 2 years-old, preferably in the spring. It is also suggested to carry out the request of a technical indication for this purpose on the platform at that time.

[0064] If the user requests a technical indication for maintenance fertilization (in 1^st rotation), the stand is between 1 and 2 years-old and maintenance fertilization has been done beforehand, the technical indication will point out that once a 1^st fertilization has already been made, no further application is foreseen at this stage. To indicate a 2^nd maintenance fertilization, it is suggested to consult the platform when the stand is between 2 and 4 years-old.

[0065] If the user requests a technical indication for maintenance fertilization (in 1^st rotation), the stand is between 1 and 2 years-old, phosphate fertilization has been made at planting and no maintenance fertilization has been made previously, depending on the location that will allow access to local edaphoclimatic information in the database, the technical indication shall refer to the quantity (in kg/ha) of a ternary fertilizer (NPK formulation) to be applied in the stand on the basis of the estimated nutritional requirements of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The user will also be advised that the application should preferably be done in early spring and that a 2^nd maintenance fertilization may be required within 2 years after this 1^st fertilization. For this purpose, it is suggested that the user consult the platform in time.

[0066] If the user requests a technical indication for maintenance fertilization (in 1^st rotation), the stand is between 1 and 2 years-old, phosphate fertilization has not been made at planting and no maintenance fertilization has been made previously, depending on the location that will allow access in the database to local edaphoclimatic information, the technical indication shall refer to the quantity (in kg/ha) of a ternary fertilizer (NPK formulation) to be applied in the stand based on the estimated nutritional requirements of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The user will also be advised that application should preferably be done in early spring and that a 2^nd maintenance fertilization may be required within 2 years after this 1^st fertilization. For this purpose, the user is suggested to consult the platform in time.

[0067] For stands with 2 to 4 years-old, where phosphate fertilization has been carried out at planting, depending on the location that will allow access to local edaphoclimatic information in the database, the technical indication for maintenance fertilization (in 1^st rotation) shall state the quantity (in kg/ ha) of a ternary fertilizer (NPK formulation) to be applied to stand based on the estimate of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) stand nutritional requirements and shall take into account the prior application or not of the 1^st maintenance fertilization. The user will also be informed that the application should be done preferably in early spring.

[0068] For stands with 2 to 4 years-old, where phosphate fertilization has not been carried at planting, depending on the location that will allow access to local edaphoclimatic information in the database, the technical indication for maintenance fertilization (in 1^st rotation) refers to the quantity (in kg/ha) of a ternary fertilizer (NPK formulation) to be applied to the stand based on the estimation of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) nutritional requirements and shall consider the prior application or not of the 1^st maintenance fertilization. The user will also be informed that the application should be done preferably in early spring.

[0069] If the user requests a technical indication for maintenance fertilization (in 1^st rotation) and the stand is more than 4 years-old, the technical indication will point-out that at this stage the stand has a low probability of response to fertilization because the biogeochemical recycling mechanisms should already be well established. However, it is suggested that the user should visually check the nutritional status of the stand and if necessary pursue technical help.

[0070] Depending on the location of the land that will allow access to local soil and climate information in the database and to estimate the risk of calcium or boron deficiency, together with NPK fertilization, the technical indication for maintenance fertilization (in 1^st rotation) will include in the case of occurring medium to high calcium deficiency risk, an encouragement for soil analysis (risk of deficiency is considered if the exchange calcium value is less than 0.5 cmol_c/kg of soil), and if the deficiency is confirmed, the suggestion is to apply about 500 kg of limestone (preferably dolomitic) per hectare on the soil surface. This application should not coincide with NPK fertilization (with a minimum interval of 4 months between fertilizers applications);

[0071] If there is a medium to high risk of boron deficiency, leaf analysis should be performed (boron deficiency is considered if the leaf has bellow 15 mg of boron/kg or 15 ppm) and if this deficiency is confirmed, the indication is to apply 40 kg of borated fertilizer with about 15% boron concentration per hectare in circle under the projection of the canopy. If the stand has less than 1 year-old, it is suggested to apply half of the dose and repeat it after two years.

[0072] Where the risk of calcium or boron occurring is low to none, the technical indication does not include any related comment.

[0073] The technical indication for coppice fertilization considers as variables the age of the stand, number and type of previous fertilizations, climatic conditions, soil characteristics and risk of calcium and boron deficiency occurrence (Figure 5).

[0074] If the user requests a technical indication for coppice fertilization and the age of the stand is less than 1.5 years-old, the indication states that the 1^st maintenance fertilization shall take place between the 1.5 and 3 years-old, after the 1^st stems thinning. It is also suggested to consult the platform in time and request a technical indication regarding the stems thinning.

[0075] If the user requests a technical indication for coppice fertilization, the stand is between 1.5 and 3 years-old and a maintenance fertilization has been previously made, the technical indication will suggests that, once a 1^st stand maintenance fertilization has already been made, no further application is foreseen at this stage. To indicate a 2^nd maintenance fertilization, it is also suggested to request a technical indication at the platform when the stand is between 3 and 4.5 years-old, when the 2^nd stems thinning is expected.

[0076] If the user requests technical indication for coppice fertilization, the stand is between 1.5 and 3 years-old, no maintenance fertilization has been made previously, depending on the location that will allow access to local edaphoclimatic information in the database, the technical indication will refer to the quantity (in kg/ha) of a ternary fertilizer (NPK formulation) to be applied to the stand based on its estimated nutritional requirements in nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The user will also be advised that the application should preferably be done in early spring by applying the fertilizer in circle under the projection of the canopy or along the planting line within a range of approximately 1 meter to each side of the plant. It is further suggested that the user should carry out soil analysis to assess possible calcium deficiencies (risk of deficiency is considered if the exchangeable calcium value is less than 0.5 cmol_c/kg of soil), and if the deficiency is confirmed, the user is suggested to apply about 500 kg of limestone (preferably dolomitic) per hectare on the soil surface. This application should not coincide with NPK fertilization (with a minimum interval of 4 months between fertilizers application). For possible boron deficiencies the user is advised to carry out leaf analysis (boron deficiency is considered if the leaf has bellow 15 mg of boron/kg or 15 ppm), and if this deficiency is confirmed, the user is advised to apply 40 kg of borated fertilizer with about 15% boron concentration per hectare in circle under the projection of the canopy. The user is also invited to request the technical indication regarding the stems thinning in the platform, activity that should have synergies with the maintenance fertilization.

[0077] For stands aged between 3 and 4.5 years-old, depending on the location that will allow access to local soil and climate information in the database, the technical indication for coppice fertilization shall refer to the quantity (in kg/ha) of a ternary fertilizer (NPK formulation) to be applied in the stand based on the estimation of the nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) nutritional requirements and shall take into account whether or not the 1^st maintenance fertilization has been provided. The user will also be advised that the application should preferably be done in early spring by applying the fertilizer in circle under the projection of the canopy or along the planting line within a range of approximately 1 meter to each side of the plant. It is further suggested that the user carry out soil analysis to assess possible calcium deficiencies (risk of deficiency is considered if the exchangeable calcium value is less than 0.5 cmol_c/kg of soil), and if the deficiency is confirmed, the user is suggested to apply about 500 kg of limestone (preferably dolomitic) per hectare on the soil surface. This application should not coincide with NPK fertilization (with a minimum interval of 4 months between fertilizers). For possible boron deficiencies, the user is advised to carry out leaf analysis (boron deficiency is considered if the leaf has bellow 15 mg of boron/kg or 15 ppm), and if this deficiency is confirmed, the user is advised to apply 40 kg of borated fertilizer with about 15% boron concentration per hectare in circle under the projection of the canopy.

[0078] If the user requests technical indication for coppice fertilization and the stand is older than 4.5 years-old, the technical indication will suggest that at this stage the stand has a low probability of response to fertilization because the biogeochemical recycling mechanisms should already be well established. However, it is suggested that the user should visually check the nutritional status of the stand and if necessary pursue technical help.

[0079] The indication of stems thinning in stands under coppice regime takes into account the number of rotations, the number of stumps, the age of the stand, previous thinning practices and the estimated wood productivity for the site (Figure 5).

[0080] In the case of a eucalyptus stand, with more than 1 rotation, with less than 1.5 years-old, it is indicated that no stems thinning is foreseen. The 1^st thinning should only take place in the stand after 1.5 years-old.

[0081] In the case of an eucalyptus stand, in the 2^nd or 3^rd rotation, with an estimated E. globulus wood production exceeding 10 m³ solid without bark per hectare and year, with a number of stumps less than or equal to 1000, age of the stand between 1.5 and 6 years-old, in which the 1^st stems thinning has not been made, the indication is to proceed with the selection leaving 1 to 3 stems until reaching 1800 stems/ha.

[0082] In the case of an eucalyptus stand in the 2^nd or 3^rd rotation, with an estimated E. globulus wood production exceeding 10 m³ solid without bark per hectare and year, with a number of stumps over 1000, stand age between 1.5 and 6 years-old, in which the 1^st stems thinning has not been made, the indication is to proceed with the selection leaving 1 to 2 stems up to 1800 stems/ ha.

[0083] In the case of an eucalyptus stand, in the 2^nd or 3^rd rotation, estimated to have an E. globulus wood production of less than 10 m³ solid without bark per hectare and year, with a number of stumps less than or equal to 1000, age of the stand between 1.5 and 6 years-old, in which the 1^st stems thinning has not been made, the indication is to proceed with the selection leaving 1 to 3 stems until reaching 1600 stems/ha.

[0084] In the case of an eucalyptus stand, in the 2^nd or 3^rd rotation, with an estimated E. globulus wood production of less than 10 m³ solid without bark per hectare and year, with a number of stumps greater than 1000, stand age between 1.5 and 6 years-old, in which the 1^st stems thinning has not been made, the indication is to proceed with the selection leaving 1 to 2 stems until reaching 1600 stems/ha.

[0085] In the case of an eucalyptus stand, at 2^nd or more rotations, aged between 2.5 and 6 years-old, with an estimated production of E. globulus wood exceeding 10 m³ solid without bark per hectare and year and in which a stems thinning has already been made, the indication proposes that the productive potential of the stand includes a maximum of 1800 stems/ha. If the stand is found to exceed this number, it is suggested that the user remove emerging shoots or overgrowths.

[0086] In the case of an eucalyptus stand, at 2^nd or more rotations, between 2.5 and 6 years-old, with an estimated production of E. globulus wood less than 10 m³ solid without bark solid per hectare and year and in which a stems thinning has already been made, the indication proposes that the productive potential of the stand includes a maximum of 1600 stems/ha. If the stand is found to exceed this number, it is suggested that the user remove emerging shoots or overgrowths.

[0087] In the case of an eucalyptus stand, in the 2^nd or more rotations and with a stand age of more than 6 years-old, the generated indication proposes that, due to the advanced age of stand, the stems thinning is not foreseen. The user is also advised to consult the platform after clearcutting the area to request technical indication for a new planting.

[0088] Although implemented in areas with adverse growth conditions, in the case of an eucalyptus stand with 2.5 to 6 years-old, in 2^nd or more rotations and where a stems thinning has already been made, the indication states that this is an unfavorable condition to the growth of E. globulus. Even so, if the user wants to advance, the maximum stocking proposed is 1600 stems/ha. If this number is exceeded, it is suggested to remove emerging shoots or overgrowths.

[0089] Although implemented in areas with adverse growth conditions, in the case of an eucalyptus stand between 1.5 and 2.5 years-old, with a number of stumps less than or equal to 1000, the indication states that this is an unfavorable condition to E. globulus growth. Even so, if the user wants to advance, it is suggested that the 1^st stems thinning should be carried out leaving up to 3 stems, depending on the diameter of the stump, up to 1600 stems/ha.

[0090] Although implemented in areas with adverse growth conditions, in the case of an eucalyptus stand between 1.5 and 2.5 years-old, with more than 1000 stumps, the indication is that this is an unfavorable condition for E. globulus. Even so, if the user wants to advance, it is suggested to make the 1^st stems thinning leaving 1 to 2 stems, depending on the diameter of the stump, up to 1600 stems/ha.

[0091] In the case of weed control in 1^st rotation (Figures 6 and 7) or in coppice (Figure 8), the technical indication will depend on the land preparation (whether or not there are terraces), the age of the stand, vegetation type, its characteristics and location.

[0092] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus stand, without terraces, less than 1 year-old and with competing vegetation present in the plantation line, the technical indication proposes to proceed pulling the weeds with root talon followed by heaps (mounding), if needed; or if the vegetation is small and not abundant and / or concentrated in small outbreaks, the indication is to start a hand pulling; or if the user has mainly bushes, the user is advised to use a trimmer or a cutter machine; or if the user has acacia with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, the user is advised to cut it with the chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing.

[0093] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus stand, without terraces, with a stand age of less than 1 year-old and young acacia trees (less than 50 cm in height) between the plantation lines, the indication shall be (i) if having a low number of acacia and concentrated in small outbreaks, manually start the acacia pullout; or proceed pulling the acacia with root talon; or proceed to the chemical devitalization by herbicide application directly to the acacia; or use a cutter or trimmer machine for acacia control; (ii) if it has many acacias or if they are relatively few but very scattered, the user may mechanically crush them or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing; or proceed to the chemical devitalization by herbicide application directly to the acacia; or use a cutter or trimmer machine for acacia control. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for the effect.

[0094] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus stand, with terraces, with a stand age of less than 1 year-old and young acacia trees (height less than 50 cm), the indication is: (i) if it has a low number of acacia trees or the acacia is concentrated in small outbreaks, manually start the acacia trees pullout; or proceed pulling the acacia with root talon; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia trees; or use a cutter or trimmer machine for acacia control; (ii) if it has many acacias or if they are relatively few but very scattered at the tread of the terrace, the user may crush them mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia; or use a cutter or trimmer machine for acacia control. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for the effect.

[0095] In the case of 1^st rotation eucalyptus stand with less than 1 year-old, with terraces and young acacia trees (height over 50 cm) between the plantation lines, the indication is: (i) if the acacia trees are concentrated in small outbreaks, use a cutter or trimmer machine for acacia control or if there are acacia trees with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, the indication is to use a chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing; (ii) if there are many acacias or if they are relatively few but very scattered, the user may crush them mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing; or use a cutter or trimmer machine for acacia control; or if there are acacia trees with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, use a chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for the effect.

[0096] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus stand, with terraces, with an age of less than 1 year-old and young acacia trees (height over 50 cm), the indication is: (i) if it has a low number of acacia trees or they are concentrated in small outbreaks, the indication is to use a cutter or trimmer machine; or if there are acacia trees with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, the indication is to use a chain saw followed promptly by herbicide brushing; (ii) if there are many acacias trees or these are relatively few but very scattered, it is possible to choose one or a combination of the following options: at the tread (base) of the terrace, the user may crush them mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing; or at the tread of the terrace and/or on the terrace riser the user may proceed with a cutter or trimmer machine for acacia control; or if there are acacia trees with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, use a chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for the effect.

[0097] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus plantation, with terraces, an age of less than 1 year-old, with mature acacia trees located between the plantation lines, the indication shall be: (i) if it has acacia trees with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, the indication is to use a chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing; or use a chain saw or a cutter/trimmer machine to control acacia trees; (ii) if it has many acacias or few but very scattered, it is possible to remove the acacia between the plantation lines using a crushing machine; or use a cutter or a trimmer machine for acacia control. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for the effect.

[0098] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus plantation, with terraces, less than 1 year-old, with mature acacia, the indication is: (i) if there are acacia trees with a stump diameter of more than 4 cm, the indication is to use a chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing; or use a chain saw or a cutter/trimmer to control acacia trees; (ii) if there are many acacia trees or few but very scattered, it is possible to choose to remove the acacia trees at terrace tread using a crushing machine; or use a cutter/trimmer for acacia control. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for the effect.

[0099] In the case of an eucalyptus plantation, without terraces, at 1^st or more rotations with herbaceous and/or shrubbery/arboreal vegetation between plantation lines, with an occupation of more than 20% (if stand has less than 5 years-old) or 50% (if stand has over 5 years-old), the indication is to use the cutter/trimmer machine to control the competing vegetation; or the user may crush them mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application), being especially careful not to spray young eucalyptus/stems.

[0100] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus plantation, with terraces, with herbaceous and/or shrubbery/arboreal vegetation presented in more than 20% of the stand, the indication shall be to use the cutter/trimmer machine to control the competing vegetation; or proceed to pulling it with a root talon if located in the plantation line; or crush the vegetation mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing if located at the tread of the terrace; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) if located at the tread of the terrace and on the terrace riser.

[0101] In the case of an eucalyptus plantation, in the 1^st rotation, without terraces, less than 1 year-old, with herbaceous and/or shrubbery/arboreal vegetation between plantation lines and occupying less than 20% of the stand; or eucalyptus plantation, in the 1^st rotation, without terraces, between 1 and 5 years-old with herbaceous vegetation located in the plantation line or between lines with an occupation of less than 20% of the stand and/or shrubbery/arboreal vegetation located between the plantation line or in the plantation line and occupying less than 20%; or eucalyptus plantation in the 1^st rotation, without terraces, stand over 5 years-old with herbaceous and/or shrubbery/arboreal vegetation, the latter located between the plantation lines or in the plantation line and occupying less than 50%; or eucalyptus plantation, in the 1^st rotation, with terraces, less than 1 year-old, under 20% of herbaceous and/or shrubbery/arboreal vegetation; or eucalyptus plantation, in the 1^st rotation, with terraces, between 1 and 5 years-old, with herbaceous and/or shrubbery/arboreal vegetation, the latter with an occupation of less than 20%; or eucalyptus plantation, in the 1^st rotation, with terraces over 5 years-old with herbaceous and/or shrubbery/arboreal vegetation, the latter occupying less than 50%; or eucalyptus plantation, in the 2^nd or more rotations, without terraces, under 5 years-old, with less than 20% of herbaceous vegetation located in plantation line or between plantation lines and/or shrub and arboreal vegetation located in or between plantation lines with less than 20% of presence; or eucalyptus plantation, in the 2^nd or more rotations, without terraces, over 5 years-old, with herbaceous vegetation located between the plantation lines and/or shrubbery and arboreal vegetation located in or between plantation lines with an occupation of less than 50%; or eucalyptus plantation, on the 2^nd or more rotations, with terraces, less than 5 years-old, with herbaceous and/or shrubbery/arboreal vegetation with an occupation of less than 20%; or eucalyptus plantation, in the 2^nd or more rotations, with terraces, over 5 years-old, with herbaceous and/or shrubbery/arboreal vegetation, the latter occupying less than 50%, the indication mentions that given the characteristics of the stand, there is no need for intervention to control spontaneous vegetation. It is also advised to follow-up the spontaneous vegetation evolution in the stand and, if needed, to request a new technical indication at the platform for this purpose.

[0102] In the case of an eucalyptus plantation, in the 1^st rotation, without terraces, between 1 and 5 years-old, with herbaceous vegetation occupying more than 20% of the plantation line; or a eucalyptus plantation, in the 2^nd or more rotations, without terraces, under 5 years-old with herbaceous vegetation located in plantation line with an occupation of more than 20%; or a eucalyptus plantation, in the 2^nd or more rotations, with terraces, under 5 years-old with herbaceous vegetation with an occupation of more than 20%, the technical indication states that given the characteristics of the plantation, there is no need for intervention to control spontaneous vegetation. It is also advised to follow-up the spontaneous vegetation evolution in the stand and, if needed, to request a new technical indication at the platform for this purpose.

[0103] In the case of an eucalyptus plantation, in the 1^st rotation, without terraces, between 1 and 5 years-old, with shrubbery and arboreal vegetation located in the plantation line and occupying more than 20%; or eucalyptus plantation, in the 2^nd or more rotations, without terraces, under 5 years-old, with shrubbery and arboreal vegetation located in the plantation line and occupying more than 20%, the technical indication is to use the cutter/trimmer machine for competing vegetation control; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application), being especially careful not to spray young eucalyptus/stems.

[0104] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus plantation with terraces, between 1 and 5 years-old, occupied with more than 20% of shrubbery and arboreal vegetation; or eucalyptus plantation, on the 2^nd or more rotations, with terraces, under 5 years-old, with more than 20% occupied by shrubbery and arboreal vegetation, the technical indication is to use the cutter/trimmer machine to control the competing vegetation; or crush it mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing if the vegetation is located at the tread of the terrace; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application), being especially careful not to spray young eucalyptus/stems.

[0105] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus plantation, with terraces, over 1 year-old, with invasive plants with height less than or equal to 50 cm, the technical indication is (i) if it has few acacias or concentrated in small outbreaks, the indication is to start a hand pulling of the invasive plants; or proceed pulling the acacia with root talon; or proceed to the chemical devitalization by herbicide application directly to the acacia; or use a cutter or trimmer machine for acacia control; (ii) if it has many acacias or if they are relatively few but very scattered, the user may pullout the acacia with root talon if localized in the plantation line; or the user may proceed crushing it mechanically or using a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control if localized in terrace tread; or proceed to the chemical devitalization by herbicide application directly to the acacia; or use a cutter or trimmer machine for acacia control. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for this purpose.

[0106] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus plantation, with terraces, over 1 year-old, with invasive plants (height above 50 cm), the technical indication is: (i) if it has few acacias or concentrated in small outbreaks, use the cutter/trimmer machine to control the acacia; or if it has acacia trees with a stump greater than 4 cm in diameter, use a chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing; or if there are Acacia dealbata mature plants, the user should girdle these trees; (ii) if it has many acacias or if they are relatively few but very scattered, proceed crushing it mechanically or using a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control if localized in terrace tread; or use a cutter or trimmer machine for acacia control; or if there are acacia trees with stumps larger than 4 cm in diameter, use the chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for this purpose.

[0107] In the case of a 1^st rotation eucalyptus plantation, with or without terraces, over 5 years-old, with shrubbery and arboreal vegetation located in the plantation line (particularly without terraces) and with an occupation higher than 50%, the technical indication is to use cutter/trimmer machine to control the competing vegetation; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application).

[0108] In the case of a 2^nd or more rotations eucalyptus plantation, with or without terraces, over 5 years-old, with shrubbery and arboreal vegetation located in the plantation line (particularly without terraces) and with an occupancy greater than 50%, the technical indication is to use the cutter/trimmer machine for competing vegetation control; or proceed crushing it mechanically or using a lightly disk harrowing if competing vegetation is localized in terrace tread; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application).

[0109] In the case of a 2^nd or more rotations eucalyptus plantation, with terraces, over 5 years-old, with invasive plants, the technical indication is: (i) if it has few acacias with height less than 50 cm or concentrated in small outbreaks, the indication is to start a hand pulling of the invasive plants; or proceed pulling the invasive plants with root talon; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the invasive plants; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for its control; (ii) if it has few acacias with height higher than 50 cm or concentrated in small outbreaks, use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; or if there are acacia trees with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, use a chain saw followed promptly by herbicide brushing; or if there are Acacia dealbata mature plants, the user should girdle these trees; (iii) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees with height lower than 50 cm at the tread of the terrace, the user may crush it mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control; if acacias are present in the plantation line, proceed pulling them with root talon; otherwise, user may proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (iv) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees with height higher than 50 cm (without seed) at the tread of the terrace, it is stated to crush them mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (v) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees and the acacia trees are over 50 cm in height (with seed) at the tread of the terrace, the user should crush them mechanically; or use a cutter/trimmer for acacia control. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for this purpose.

[0110] In the case of a 2^nd or more rotations eucalyptus plantation, with terraces, less than 5 years-old, with invasive plants, the technical indication is: (i) if there are few acacia trees or concentrated in small outbreaks and the acacia trees are less than 50 cm in height the indication is to start a hand pulling of the invasive plants; or proceed pulling the acacias with root talon; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia, being especially careful not to spray young eucalyptus stems; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (ii) if it has few acacias with height higher than 50 cm or concentrated in small outbreaks use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; or if there are acacia trees with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, use a chain saw followed promptly by herbicide brushing; or if there are Acacia dealbata mature plants, the user should girdle these trees; (iii) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees at the tread of the terrace and the acacia are less than 50 cm in height, it is suggested to crush them mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control; or if acacia are present in the plantation line, proceed pulling the acacia with root talon; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia, being especially careful not to spray young eucalyptus stems; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (iv) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees at the tread of the terrace and the acacia are higher than 50 cm in height (without seed), user should proceed with mechanical crush or a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (v) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees at the tread of the terrace and the acacia trees are higher than 50 cm in height (with seed), the user should crush them mechanically; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for this purpose.

[0111] In the case of a eucalyptus plantation, in the 2^nd or more rotations, without terraces, over 5 years-old, with invasive plants, the technical indication is: (i) if there are few acacia trees or concentrated in small outbreaks and acacia are less than 50 cm in height, the indication is to start a hand pulling of the invasive plants; or proceed pulling the acacias with root talon; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (ii) if it has few acacias with height higher than 50 cm or concentrated in small outbreaks, use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; or if there are acacia trees with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, use a chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing; or if there are Acacia dealbata mature plants, the user should girdle these trees; (iii) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees and the acacia are less than 50 cm in height, it is suggested to crush them mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control between plantation lines; or if acacia are present in the plantation line, proceed pulling the acacia with root talon; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (iv) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees and the acacia are higher than 50 cm in height (without seed), user should proceed with mechanical crush or a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control between plantation lines; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control;(v)if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees and the acacia trees are over 50 cm in height (with seed), the user should crush them mechanically between plantation lines; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for this purpose.

[0112] In the case of a eucalyptus plantation, in the 2^nd or more rotations, without terraces, less than 5 years-old, with invasive plants, the technical indication is: (i) if there are few acacia trees or concentrated in small outbreaks and acacia are less than 50 cm in height, the indication is to start a hand pulling of the invasive plants; or proceed pulling the acacias with root talon; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia, being especially careful not to spray young eucalyptus stems; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control;(ii) if it has few acacias with more than 50 cm in height or concentrated in small outbreaks, use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; or if there are acacia trees with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, use a chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing; or if there are Acacia dealbata mature plants, the user should girdle these trees; (iii) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees and the acacia are less than 50 cm in height, it is suggested to crush them mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control between plantation lines; or if acacia is present in the plantation line, proceed pulling it with root talon; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia being especially careful not to spray young eucalyptus stems; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (iv) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees and the acacia are more than 50 cm in height (without seed), user should proceed with mechanical crush or a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control between plantation lines; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (v) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees and the acacia trees are over 50 cm in height (with seed), the user should crush them mechanically between plantation lines; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for this purpose.

[0113] In the case of an eucalyptus plantation, in the 1^st rotation, without terraces, over 1 year-old, with invasive plants, the technical indication is: (i) if there are few acacia trees or concentrated in small outbreaks and acacia are less than 50 cm in height, the indication is to start a hand pulling of the invasive plants; or proceed pulling the acacia with root talon; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (ii) if it has few acacias with more than 50 cm in height or concentrated in small outbreaks, use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; or if there are acacia trees with a stump diameter greater than 4 cm, use a chain saw promptly followed by herbicide brushing; or if there are Acacia dealbata mature plants, the user should girdle these trees; (iii) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees and the acacia are less than 50 cm in height, it is suggested to crush them mechanically or proceed to a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control between plantation lines; or if acacia are present in the plantation line, proceed pulling the acacia with root talon; or proceed to chemical devitalization (herbicide application) directly to the acacia; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (iv) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees and the acacia are more than 50 cm in height (without seed), user should proceed with mechanical crush or a lightly disk harrowing for acacia control between plantation lines; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control; (v) if there are many or relatively few but very scattered acacia trees and the acacia trees are over 50 cm in height (with seed), the user should crush them mechanically between plantation lines; or use a cutter/trimmer machine for acacia control. It is further warned that there is very likely that acacia trees will burst vigorously after harvesting, so regular monitoring of their evolution should be undertaken and, if necessary, re-consult the platform for a new technical indication for this purpose.

Claims

1. A platform, computer-implemented, for indicating customized technical forestry practices for eucalyptus plantation management, in the different stages of stand development, characterized by comprising:

- a provider server, a connection to a communication network, processing and memory units, accessed by the provider server via technical indication by the user via a user terminal of any computer and computing means, such as a personal computer, tablet and smartphone;

- spatial databases with data of eucalyptus forestry management;

- geographic information systems which recognize the said spatial databases;

- a mapping service which uses satellite imagery and aerial photography;

- databases storing information on user(s) registration information, on the geographical location of the land (s) and on the specificities of the land (s);

- databases storing technical indications of forestry practices generated for different stages of development of an eucalyptus stand, such as establishment, 1^st rotation maintenance and coppice regime.

2. A working method of the platform described in the previous claim characterized by comprising the following steps:

- the provider server receives user(s) registration information from the user terminal;

- the provider server receives information on the land(s) landmarks through the mapping service which uses satellite imagery and aerial photography, or by uploading a vector file, from the user terminal;

- the provider server receives information on the land(s) specifications according to its current occupation, the characteristics of the soil and land(s) and the presence and type of spontaneous vegetation, from the user terminal;

- the provider server receives information on the chosen technical indication of forestry practices, such as on the eucalyptus stand establishment, on the eucalyptus stand 1^st rotation maintenance or on the eucalyptus stand coppice regime, from the user terminal;

- storing of the information transmitted by the user terminal in the available databases;

- the provider server accesses the information in the databases on user (s) registration information, geographical location of the land (s) and specificities of the land (s) and on the chosen technical indication of forestry practices;

- the provider server distributes the chosen technical indication of forestry practices to the user terminal.

3. The working method according to claim 2, wherein the land(s) is (are) characterized according to the chosen technical indication of forestry practices by its slope, the presence or not of terraces, number of eucalyptus stumps per hectare, the risk of soil waterlogging and soil texture, the productive capability of the soil, biotic and abiotic risks, climate condition for eucalyptus growth, age of the stand, the number and type of previous fertilization practices, the risk of calcium and boron deficiency, the number of rotations, previous thinning practices and by the vegetation type, its characteristics and location.

4. The working method according to any of the claims 2 and 3, wherein the technical indication of forestry practices for a eucalyptus stand establishment includes soil tillage techniques, planting fertilization practices, the genetic material best suited to the edaphoclimatic conditions of the land (s), the most appropriate number of plants per hectare and the most suitable time/season for planting.

5. The working method according to any of the claims 2 and 3, wherein the technical indication of forestry practices for 1^st rotation maintenance includes techniques for maintenance fertilization and control of spontaneous vegetation.

6. The working method according to any of the claims 2 and 3 wherein the technical indication of forestry practices for coppice regime includes techniques for maintenance fertilization, for thinning and for spontaneous vegetation control.

7. Use of the platform described in claim 1 for planning forestry practices in eucalyptus stands management.

Drawing