Authors: |
Mark J. Twery, Aaron R. Weiskittel |
Year: |
2013 |
Type: |
Book Chapter |
Station: |
Northern Research Station |
Source: |
In: Wainwright, John; Mulligan, Mark, eds. Environmental modelling: finding simplicity in complexity. Second edition. Chapter 13 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd: 379-397. |
Abstract
Forests are complex and dynamic ecosystems comprising individual trees that can vary in both size and species. In comparison to other organisms, trees are relatively long lived (40-2000 years), quite plastic in terms of their morphology and ecological niche, and adapted to a wide variety of habitats, which can make predicting their behaviour exceedingly difficult. Forests are widely managed for a variety of objectives including biodiversity, wildlife habitat, products, and recreation. Consequently, forest managers need tools that can aid them during the decision-making process. The objective of this chapter is to explore various modelling approaches used for forest management, provide a brief description of some example models, explore the ways that they have been used to aid the decision-making process, and make suggestions for future improvements.
Citation
Twery, Mark J.; Weiskittel, Aaron R. 2013. Forest-management modelling. In: Wainwright, John; Mulligan, Mark, eds. Environmental modelling: finding simplicity in complexity. Second edition. Chapter 13 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd: 379-397.