Definitions for "Coarse woody debris"
Keywords:  habitat, diameter, cwd, transect, decay
Large dead wood in the forest, that may be either snags or down logs usually greater than 10 cm or 4 inches in diameter.
Portion of a tree that has fallen or been cut and left in the woods. Usually refers to pieces at least 20 inches in diameter. FEMAT
Decaying wood of a minimum diameter, on the forest floor that provides special micro-climates and breeding habitat for a wide variety of organisms. Size is variable, but larger size pieces are preferable as they provide the greatest longevity and potential for site productivity and wildlife use.