Forests may need centuries to recover their original productivity after continuous intensive management: An example from Douglas-fir stands

► Effects of intensive management in Douglas-fir forests were modeled with FORECAST. ► Model validation against observed data indicated satisfactory model performance. ► Managing for timber would not reduce significantly tree growth after management ends. ► Managing for biomass or pulp could reduce tree growth for centuries after management ends. ► Understory species abundance could be affected for centuries after intensive management in poor sites.