Using Spatial Tradeoffs to Build Consensus and to Value Non-Market Services in Forest Management

Abstract

This study summarizes work that focused on quantifying the spatial tradeoffs behind conflicting forest management objectives. The term “spatial tradeoff” refers to the spatial consequences of different management objectives. The techniques build on spatially-explicit forest planning models and have the capability to identify Pareto-optimal harvest schedules with respect to various timber and non-timber objectives. The focus of this study is to demonstrate how tangible information on forest resource tradeoffs and production possibilities can be used to (1) identify efficient compromise management alternatives, (2) build consensus among stakeholders with conflicting interests, and (3) help realize and market environmental forest services.