A Toolkit Modeling Approach for Sustainable Forest Management Planning: Achieving Balance between Science and Local Needs

Abstract

To assist forest managers in balancing an increasing diversity of resource objectives, we developed a toolkit modeling approach for sustainable forest management (SFM). The approach inserts a meta-modeling strategy into a collaborative modeling framework grounded in adaptive management philosophy that facilitates participation among stakeholders, decision makers, and local domain experts in the meta-model building process. The modeling team works iteratively with each of these groups to define essential questions, identify data resources, and then determine whether available tools can be applied or adapted, or whether new tools can be rapidly created to fit the need. The desired goal of the process is a linked series of domain-specific models (tools) that balances generalized "top-down" models (i.e., scientific models developed without input from the local system) with case-specific customized "bottom-up" models that are driven primarily by local needs. Information flow between models is organized according to vertical (i.e., between scale) and horizontal (i.e., within scale) dimensions. We illustrate our approach within a 2.1 million hectare forest planning district in central Labrador, a forested landscape where social and ecological values receive a higher priority than economic values. However, the focus of this paper is on the process of how SFM modeling tools and concepts can be rapidly assembled and applied in new locations, balancing efficient transfer of science with adaptation to local needs. We use the Labrador case study to illustrate strengths and challenges uniquely associated with a meta-modeling approach to integrated modeling as it fits within the broader collaborative modeling framework. Principle advantages of the approach include the scientific rigor introduced by peer-reviewed models, combined with the adaptability of meta-modeling.A key challenge is the limited transparency of scientific models to different participatory groups. This challenge can be overcome by frequent and substantive two-way communication among different groups at appropriate times in the model-building process, combined with strong leadership that includes strategic choices when assembling the modeling team. The toolkit approach holds promise for extending beyond case studies, without compromising the bottom-up flow of needs and information, to inform SFM planning using the best available science.

Effects of presenting forest simulation results on the forest values and attitudes of forestry professionals and other forest users in Central Labrador

“…After the presentation each group had an opportunity for discussion and for commenting on the results. Comments were used for further development of the model (Sturtevant et al, 2007). When there were no more issues to discuss, the participants filled in the second questionnaire.…”

“…Some of the participants had previously been active in the planning process, but they were assumed to have a different level of technical knowledge than forestry professionals. The Innu could have formed their own group, but their self-reported learning and opinion change was close to the average of other forest users (Sturtevant et al, 2007) and we chose to form one group of nonfibre forest users to enhance clarity and statistical power.…”

“…In order to provide a comprehensive tool for local planning needs, a forest management simulation model at the landscape scale for District 19A was developed as a joint venture involving various experts and local people (Sturtevant et al, 2007). Simulations were run using the SELES (Spatially Explicit Landscape Event Simulator) modeling tool .…”

“…This is even more difficult for local people who are taking part in participatory planning processes; now a normal procedure in SFM planning. Modern technology in the form of modeling tools can be used to demonstrate the effect of different management options over the long term and for large scale processes (Messier et al, 2003;Sturtevant et al, 2007).…”

A Real Options Approach to Forest-Management Decision Making to Protect Caribou under the Threat of Extinction

“…The optimal stopping time is also informed by the social tradeoff of maintaining the economic benefits to the community of timber harvesting and the conservation benefits of woodland caribou. The methodology presented in this paper is a component of a broader sustainable forest management project focused on central Labrador (Sturtevant et al 2007).…”