Clearcuts are a completely anthropogenic disturbance, as are the two subsequent chapters on plowed fields and mines. We consider here only disturbances that remove all tree cover or that leave only a few stems to provide seed sources for natural regeneration. Selective cutting is mentioned only if it is compared with clearcuts. Here we cover primarily clearcuts that are not subsequently managed by human intervention because our interest is in spontaneous succession. We also consider cases in which interventions are limited to immediate post-clearcut treatments including burning and chipping of residual materials (logging slash), or, rarely, tilling of the soil, or herbicide use. We excluded studies that used planting or seeding. Slash-and-burn activities in preparation for agricultural activities are mentioned in Chapter 13. Because a substantial biological legacy remains, clearcuts clearly lead to secondary succession.