Integration of information regarding cultural ecosystem services in private forest management plans

Purpose and goal

The project aimed to create a method for the implementation of information on forest ecosystems services, mainly cultural, in forest management plans. In the longer term, the project aims to contribute to a sustainable forest management, and to contribute to the practical interaction and knowledge exchange between transdisciplinary forest research, environmental humanities, Umeå University and the regional industries, here represented by Norra Skogsägarna.

Expected results and effects

TThe project has provided several positive effects and results. The pilot studies conducted have improved forest owners´/managers´ knowledge of their properties´ economic, ecological and socio-cultural assets; facilitated the forest owners´ articulation of their management objectives; improved the basis for knowledge transfer between forest owners and managers; given the project parties experience of fruitful interaction between environmental humanities and the forest industry. Overall, the project has promoted a sustainable forest managment.

Planned approach and implementation

Through three pilot studies, the prerequisites for implementing a cost-effective supplementary service in forest planning was analysed. The pilot studies were conducted with participatory mapping, interviews, collection of digital and field data, as well as archival studies of mainly digitised source material. Presentations of the project results were made orally, and reports have been written and communicated to the involved parties. The project lasted for three months, and during the time the project leader was placed at the main office of Norra Skogsägarna in Umeå.