Enhancing economic multifunctionality without compromising multidiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality via forest enrichment

Abstract

Enriching tree species–poor and less productive forests by introducing economically valuable species is a strategy proposed for achieving multipurpose forest management. However, empirical evidence from managed and mature forests on the impact of this enrichment on ecological (multidiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality) and economic dimensions remains scarce, particularly when nonnative species are used. Here, we propose and test a framework that integrates economic multifunctionality, encompassing timber production–oriented goals and resistance against disturbances, with multidiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality in European beech forest stands enriched with conifers. Our results show that enriched beech forest stands (~80 years old) can provide high levels of economic multifunctionality without compromising multidiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality. In comparison to pure beech stands, enriched stands with Douglas-fir supported win-win-win situations for these three dimensions. Our findings contribute to the discussion of integrating biodiversity, ecosystem, and economic functions, providing empirical evidence for future forest management.