What practice focuses on improving young forest habitats?

Heavy thinning is a forest management practice that involves selectively removing some trees in a forest stand to reduce competition for light, nutrients, and water among the remaining trees. This practice is beneficial for improving young forest habitats because it allows for increased sunlight to reach the forest floor, promoting the growth of understory vegetation and young trees. The increased light and resources support a more diverse array of plant and animal species, which are essential for a healthy ecosystem.

Additionally, heavy thinning can help create a more open forest structure, which is particularly important for certain wildlife species that thrive in young forest habitats. By enhancing the habitat quality and allowing for the regeneration of young trees, heavy thinning fosters a dynamic ecosystem that can provide for varying wildlife needs, encouraging a diverse community of flora and fauna.

While the other options may contribute to forest health or wildlife management in their own ways, they do not specifically focus on enhancing young forest habitats in the same straightforward manner as heavy thinning does.