Long-term modelling and analyzing of some important forest ecosystem values with linear programming


Keles S., Yolasigmaz H. A., Baskent E. Z.

FRESENIUS ENVIRONMENTAL BULLETIN, vol.16, no.8, pp.963-972, 2007 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 16 Issue: 8
  • Publication Date: 2007
  • Journal Name: FRESENIUS ENVIRONMENTAL BULLETIN
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.963-972
  • Karadeniz Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study tackles the integration of six important selected forest values (soil conservation, carbon sequestration, visual quality, timber, water and oxygen production) into a linear programming-based forest management planning, model. All forest values were functionally linked to forest stand characteristics, and a number of forest management strategies were developed to evaluate the trade-offs among forest values. The outputs of each strategy are evaluated with a number of performance indicators, such as standing timber volume, harvested volume, ending forest inventory, areas harvested and basal area. The management strategies indicated that lon-term protection of forest ecosystems played an important role on the amount of carbon sequestration, soil conservation and visual quality values. The integration of timber volume policy constraints into timber-based forest management planning caused losses in timber volumes. Increased net carbon sequestration and dereased soil losses were attained at a significant cost, in terms of forgone timber harvest. Soil losses and water productions of forest ecosystems decreased, when residual basal area of forest stands increased. Clear-cuttings of forest stands have negative effects on visual quality. Higher timber growth rates resulted in more oxygen production.