@article{article_1609350, title={Evaluation of Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) High Mountain Afforestation: The Case of the Galyan}, journal={Bartın Orman Fakültesi Dergisi}, volume={27}, pages={33–45}, year={2025}, DOI={10.24011/barofd.1609350}, author={Turna, İbrahim and Semercioğlu, Abdurrahman and Atar, Fahrettin and Güney, Deniz}, keywords={Yüksek dağ ağaçlandırması, Sarıçam, fidan morfolojisi, yükselti, Galyan}, abstract={This study aims to evaluate the afforestation success based on the 10-year development of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) seedlings planted at higher elevations within the current forest boundary as part of the "Galyan Afforestation Project." Sample plots were selected from the Scots pine reforestation area, established in 2007, based on three different aspects (north, northeast, northwest) and two elevation ranges (1790–1890 m, 1891–1990 m). In 2011, data were collected from each sample plot, including seedling length, root collar diameter, the number of branches on the latest shoot, the lengths of the longest branches in the north, south, east, and west directions, and the number of terminal buds. Additionally, the growth trends of the same areas were monitored based on on-site inspections conducted in 2016 (when the seedlings were 10 years old), and evaluations were made accordingly. Statistical tools such as ANOVA, Duncan test, t-test, and correlation analysis were employed to evaluate growth performance. The results showed that the average seedling height was 59.64 cm in 2010 and 93.85 cm in 2016, with height growth being more pronounced at lower elevations and on north-facing slopes. While initial growth was adequate, extreme climatic conditions such as frost, snow pressure, and waterlogging led to deformities, including branch and terminal shoot damage. Despite these challenges, the findings highlight that careful site selection—favoring northern aspects and lower elevations—can enhance growth outcomes. Furthermore, integrating ecological and forestry research with practical forestry strategies is essential for sustainable reforestation in mountainous regions.}, number={1}, publisher={Bartın Üniversitesi}