What does a salvage operation in forestry primarily involve?

A salvage operation in forestry is primarily focused on harvesting trees that have been damaged due to adverse events such as storms, fires, pest infestations, or diseases. This practice aims to recover the economic value of the damaged trees, as well as prevent potential spread of pests or diseases to healthy trees. By removing the compromised trees, forestry professionals can help promote better regeneration of the forest and minimize losses associated with degrading forest health.

The other options involve practices that are important in forestry but do not accurately describe salvage operations. Enhancing lumber quality relates to methods that improve the characteristics of wood before harvesting, while reforesting areas of high biodiversity focuses on planting trees in ecologically significant areas, enhancing their ecological functions. Developing urban green spaces pertains to landscaping initiatives that create green areas in urban settings, which does not involve salvaging damaged timber.