Willow as Pulp, Paper crop

Here is a story I never realized was possible. The use of willow as a timber species for pulp and paper purposes. We are looking at agroforestry in the the delta of the Parana River system, located near Buenos Aires, Argentina


This part of Argentina supports the largest area of timber production from Salix in the world. We call this plant willow the local common name is sauce. Their primary purpose is supplying hardwood pulp for paper. Biomass energy potential is obvious. This is a very productive plant and represents hybridization and selection over many years.


Mature Grove of Timber Willow


I have never seen a willow grove like this. Close and possibly equal in production potential is our Salix scouleriana, selection 'Big Scouler'



Planting willow stakes in a new grove


Establishment


Prior to Thinning and harvest of propagation material ? Apparently 1 year field


Second Season grove


Note heavy stand of competitive grasses.