Young Brunette Girl Reveals On The Rocky Beach With Remains Of A Dead Tree

Coarse woody debris (CWD) is a term used in English-speaking countries for fallen dead trees and the remains of large branches on the ground in forests. Some prefer the term coarse woody habitat (CWH). A dead standing tree is known as a snag and provides many of the same functions as coarse woody debris. The minimum size required for woody debris to be defined as "coarse" varies by author, ranging from 2.5–20 cm (1–8 in) in diameter.
Since the 1970s, forest managers worldwide have been encouraged to allow dead trees and woody debris to remain in woodlands, recycling nutrients trapped in the wood and providing food and habitat for a wide range of organisms, thereby improving biodiversity. This natural process of woody growth, decomposition, and recycling may aid in the renewal of ancient forests.