Cooperative Forest Planning Using Criteria, Indicators and Systems Analysis

Abstract

A systems analysis approach is being used to co-manage the 13,000-hectare John Prince Research Forest (JPRF) in Central British Columbia. The JPRF is a working forest managed by the University of Northern British Columbia and Tl’azt’en Nation for the purposes of research, education, and training. Local criteria and indicators of social and ecological sustainability have been identified using a combination of social science and conventional forest management planning techniques. A scenario planning approach is used to facilitate the broad exploration of management alternatives. An analytical decision support tool has been employed to incorporate socio-economic, ecological and operational indicators into an integrated long-term management strategy for the forest. Initial results are presented, and approaches to implementation and monitoring are discussed.