Removal of slash (branches and tree tops) might on the other hand reduce long-term nutrient fluxes to aquatic systems but possibly at the cost of lower long-term forest productivity. In areas with steep slopes and high precipitation, such as western Norway, increased harvesting on slopes could lead to increased erosion and high sediment loads in streams affecting water quality and reproduction of fish. The impact of a given forestry operation scenario may vary geographically, depending on, for example, soil type as well as on operational details, such as proximity to streams and lakes.