When the forest is clearcut, the company that does so, intends to replant the area so that future trees can grow, and be turned into lumber. The forestry companies, have the misconception that forestry is very similar to farming, want to "prepare" the soil, clear of "obstructions" for future tree seedlings. For example, tree roots and stumps are physically removed from the earth, thus, the soil is deprived of the nutrients and water absorbing properties, this wood would give when it naturally decays over time. .
Next, to remove the debris other than roots and stumps, logging companies typically set fire to the clear-cut area, inadvertently, causing a "scorched earth" scenario. Forestry companies use methods that bring the temperature of the soil to an unnatural degree - the temperature of natural forest fires are much lower compared to this method. When this is done, numerous consequences happen. For example, the insects, larva, bacteria, and microorganisms that usually turnover the soil are killed off. Also, the soil becomes scorched and impermeable to water, which leads to excess runoff, and the dehydration of surrounding trees. Next, nitrogen, the basis of all plant protein necessary for tree growth, is turned back into its gaseous state at these high temperatures. This process releases rich nitrogen into the atmosphere, therefore, depriving the plant of protein. .
Next, when an area is clear-cut, pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers are used in excess amounts, in hopes of hastening the tree growth cycle. Firstly, the problem with pesticides is that they don't selectively kill, and the methods used to spread them - either helicopter or plane- usually lead to the application of unneeded areas, therefore killing off insects that can be helpful in other sections of the forest. Herbicides, which are also spread in the same method as pesticides, disrupt the naturally growth cycle of trees.
