Timber Stand Improvement (TSI) is a cutting or culling of undesirable species, usually in a sapling stand of trees less than 4-inches in diameter. By removing undesirable species and poorly formed, diseased, or insect-infested trees, the species composition and stand quality will improve.
TSI will also increase the growth rate and health of the desirable trees remaining. Undesirable trees may be controlled by herbicides, prescribed burning, or removed from the stand and used as firewood. Improvement cuttings are done in older stands to accomplish the same results, but the stems removed may have the opportunity to be sold.
Oklahoma Forestry Services Foresters are available to provide information and onsite recommendations for TSI as well as determine if cost-share or grant funds are available to assist the landowner with the costs incurred. OFS also maintains a list of contractors and Consulting Foresters that either perform TSI work or can assist you in finding a contractor.