Final answer:
The tree harvesting method where all trees in a large area are harvested at once is known as clear-cutting, often criticized for its negative environmental impact.
Step-by-step explanation:
The method of tree harvesting where all trees in a large area are harvested at once is known as clear-cutting. This is a form of deforestation where every tree in a designated area is removed, which can include large expanses of forestland. The goal might be to clear land for farming and ranching or for commercial timber. This practice is often criticized for its negative environmental impact, such as loss of biodiversity, increased soil erosion, and disruption of ecosystems.
While clear-cutting can be economically beneficial for immediate timber yield, it has significant consequences for the forest ecosystem. Alternative methods, such as strip cutting or selective logging, are considered to be less damaging as they allow for more trees to remain standing, which can help promote forest regeneration and maintain ecological balance.