Forest Resource Dynamics Publications and Synthesis Development

Project Abstract:
Forests are dynamic and resilient ecosystems, responding to natural and anthropogenic changes based on biophysical and autecological characteristics. Light, water, nutrients, genetic variation, species characteristics, and seed production and dispersal all interact together under the influence of the various biotic and abiotic disturbance agents we see at play on the landscape. Teams of forestry professionals have identified the need to have access to the latest science and innovations relating these dynamic processes to their current forest management activities especially in light of many of the changes that have been taking place at that landscape level (Snetsinger 2006 – Future Forest Ecosystems Initiative, Forest Science Program Strategic Plan 2004-08, Morford et al. 2006, Swift and Scherer 2006). This project responds to that identified need. Through the use of a variety of preferred delivery methods that synthesize the latest information and make it readily available, forest management professionals will have increased awareness of the latest scientific, experiential and indigenous information related to forest resource dynamics.

During the 2007-08 fiscal year, the forest management extension team will work with FIA-Forest Science Program research proponents to utilize existing and innovative media to expand the reach of their research innovations through the Provincial Forestry Extension Program and Partner publication products and periodicals most preferred by the primary target audiences. Using such products as short, peer reviewed BC Journal of Ecosystem and Management Extension Notes, and LINK Newsletter articles that focus on providing short succinct, key messages, the extension team will concentrate on providing useful, local solutions to short-term management problems such as those related to forest health, competing vegetation, partial cutting, retention, ecosystem productivity, and various technologies associated with forest harvesting and engineering activities. The extension team will also work to highlight specific Forest Science Program research projects that link directly to high priority forest dynamics management questions identified by the FIA-FSP Timber and Value Program Advisory Committee within the new Forest Science Corner section of LINK.

For further information on this project, please contact kathie.swift@forrex.org.