[Carry_Okie]

And I've never understood about the positive habitat assertions of low density. Critters and birds are crazy for the undergrowth. The oldest forest parks, like at Winterthur, are quiet of life.

You need a mix. The owls and hawks need open flight paths. The groundcovers need light and can't survive a heavy needle drop. A few thickets in open areas serve as breeding places for critters, and then there are meadows that have the largest variety of creatures and plants while providing a place to hide out during a fire.

Complexity is where it's at.

[Mamzelle]

Ah, but you didn't explain the habitat advantages of old-growth. There's a reason for that awe-inspiring hush.

Everybody loves a tree-church for the spriritual beauty. The more practical advantages are not as apparent.