bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Managing Fire Danger in the Forests of the US Inland Northwest: A Classic “Wicked Problem„ in Public Land Policy
Authors: Carroll Matthew S. , Blatner Keith A. , Cohn Patricia J. , Morgan Todd 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
In their classic article Allen and Gould (Allen, G.M., and E.M. Gould. 1986. Complexity, wickedness, and public forests. J. For. 84(4):20–24) stated that the most daunting problems associated with public forest management had a “wicked„ element: “Wickedproblems share characteristics. Each can be considered as simply a symptom of some higher order problem⋯. The definition is in the mind of the beholder⋯. Furthermore, there is no single correct formulation for a wicked problem, only more or less useful ones„ (p. 22). Thisdescription seems to fit the difficulties associated with managing the increasing risk of wildland fire in the United States. Using the Inland Northwest region of the United States as an example, we explore the dynamics of this issue as they relate to possible improvements and the inherentdilemmas. We conclude that any “solutions„ to the problems associated with fire danger are best thought of in terms of long-term system improvements rather than short-term fixes.
Assessment of Logger Education Programs and Programming across the United States
Authors: Haworth Brooke K. , Blinn Charles R. , Chura David T. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Professional loggers occupy key positions within sustainable forestry, requiring enhanced knowledge of the principles and specific techniques associated with forest management and operational considerations such as safety, business management, harvesting productivity and cost calculation, and employee supervision. An expert opinion survey of logger education programs (LEP) across the United States was conducted to assess the status of those programs and associated programming. Results indicate that LEPs vary considerably between states, evidenced by the large variance in program responses. The financial success of LEPs, while maintaining reduced fees and tuition, may depend on diversity of funding sources, reorganization of training services, and use of volunteer and retired professionals. Creating successful training experiences depends on qualified instructors, subject relevance, small groups, discussion opportunities, program evaluation, and field practice. Formats that are rarely used by LEPs are classroom computers (9%), independent study paper- (9%) and computer-based (6%) programming. Eighty-seven percent of the programs expressed strong support for an increase in collaboration, with the largest interest indicated for regional curriculum exchanges. The Forest Resources Association (FRA) was cited most often as the appropriate lead organization to initiate those exchanges.
The Loess Plateau: Finding a Place for Forests
Authors: Peng Hong , Coster Jack 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The Loess Plateau is the major contributor to the silt load in the Yellow River because of high erosion rates resulting from a combination of generally low vegetation cover, erodible soils, a long history of inappropriate land use, and increasing population pressure. Forests are not a dominant land cover within the plateau ecosystem. Collectively, the four major plateau provinces represent only 7.2% of the total area of forest in China. In addition to the self-renewal of degraded land by limiting further disturbances, an important measure for arresting erosion and improving environmental conditions is the restoration of vegetation cover through extensive afforestation programs. This article reviews different forest systems and sivilculture practices within the region and proposes adopting ecologically based management practices for restoring the plateau.
Eastern White Pine Abundance in 19th Century Forests: A Reexamination of Evidence from Land Surveys and Lumber Statistics
Authors: Lorimer Craig G. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Information on the relative abundance of early and late-successional species in presettlement forests is useful in formulating management plans that emulate natural processes. In northern Maine, early 19th century land surveys have suggested a low proportion of eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) and other fire-adapted species. A recent article in this journal proposed a much higher abundance of pine based on lumber production statistics; suggested reasons for lower abundance in the land survey documents included limited timber cruise data, possible reductions from logging, and surveyor bias. This article provides an analysis of land survey documents for 283 townships covering 7.2 million ac of northern Maine. Multiple lines of evidence are internally consistent in indicating low average pine volumes of about 320 bd ft/ac, 48% of the levels suggested by lumber statistics. Likely reasons for the differences are discussed, as well as implications for presettlement disturbance regimes.
Economic Impacts of Southwestern National Forest Fuels Reductions
Authors: Hjerpe Evan E. , Kim Yeon-Su 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Fuels reduction programs aimed at reducing wildfire risk are increasing on national forests of the American Southwest. Incorporating both mechanical thinning and prescribed burning, fuels reduction projects can decrease the intensity and frequency of wildfires but also provide economic benefits to regional economies, businesses, and individuals. This article analyzes the economic impacts of national forest fuels reduction programs in the Southwest. Impacts, multipliers, and wood utilization rates were calculated for regions containing the Apache-Sitgreaves, Coconino, Gila, Kaibab, and San Juan National Forests. In total, fiscal year 2005 fuels reduction programs for these five national forests accounted for over $40 million of output and helped generate some 500 jobs, providing an economic stimulus to rural communities.
US Forest Service Bark Beetle Research in the Western United States: Looking Toward the Future
Authors: Negròn José F. , Bentz Barbara J. , Fettig Christopher J. , Gillette Nancy , Hansen E. Matthew , Hayes Jane L. , Kelsey Rick G. , Lundquist John E. , Lynch Ann M. , Progar Robert A. , Seybold Steven J. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Bark beetles cause extensive tree mortality in coniferous forests of western North America and play an important role in the disturbance ecology of these ecosystems. Recently, elevated populations of bark beetles have been observed in all conifer forest types across the western United States. This has heightened public awareness of the issue and triggered legislation for increased funding for state and federal agencies to address issues associated with bark beetle outbreaks. Recently, US Forest Service, Research and Development entomologists from the western research stations met with US Forest Service, State and Private Forestry, Forest Health Protection entomologists, our primary stakeholder, to identify bark beetle research priorities. These include vegetation management; ecological, economic, and social consequences of outbreaks; fire and bark beetle interactions; effects of climate change on bark beetle populations; and chemical ecology.
Prospects and Challenges for the Emerging Timber Import Market in India
Authors: Dubey Parag 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
External sector liberalization and ban on most domestic logging created a unique market opportunity for global wood products in India. The growing prosperity of Indian households has allowed the market for imported wood products to develop quickly. Despite these prospects, several challenges impede the growth of wood-based industry in India. This article provides an analysis of the current business environment and market structure that may reveal future potential of the wood sector in which US-based firms can participate in India's growth. The Indian wood industry has taken the initiative through agroforestry, which is reinforced in proposed public-private partnerships. Decentralized forest management is an important policy issue in India now. India's industrial policy, with respect to wood-based industries, witnessed removal of protection, which exposed the domestic industries as inefficiently small, lacking economies of scale and using outdated technology. Foreign companies can now invest up to 100% in wood-based industries. Thus, it is obvious that many foreign companies view India as a country with a strong commercial appeal, both as an emerging market and as an economic partner in possible collaboration. However, religion, social, economic, and environmental challenges dominate the society and have a significant impact on the lifestyles and buying behavior of the Indian population.
Looking at the Big Picture: Engaging Natural Resource Students in Landscape Level Planning through a Capstone Course
Authors: Prokopy Linda S. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
In increasingly fragmented environments, it is insufficient to train natural resource students to only develop site level plans. They must be encouraged to think about planning larger landscapes. Natural resource students also need to develop competencies in “softer skills” such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and addressing public concerns. This article describes an approach to combining the pedagogies of service learning and problem-based learning in a capstone course in landscape level planning. Students work in interdisciplinary teams to develop a plan that meets the needs of diverse stakeholders who represent more than one property owner. Feedback indicates that students are learning problem solving skills and how to think and plan at the landscape level.
Managed Forests and Conservation of Terrestrial Biodiversity in the Southern United States
Authors: Miller Darren A. , Wigley T. Bently , Miller Karl V. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The southern United States has significant area in managed pine (Pinus spp.) stands that contribute to terrestrial biodiversity via maintenance of forested areas, varied silvicultural practices resulting in diverse plant communities, stands in multiple successional stages interspersed with mature natural forests, and reduction of pressure on natural forests for wood products. However, conservation value of managed forests is dependent on factors such as product target, landscape context, management intensity, rotation length, stocking density, and ownership philosophy. Potential limitations include loss of natural forests, reduction in dead wood, constraints on stand structure, age and size of plantation trees, and economic pressure to increase management intensity. We recommend that landowners develop plans, including metrics for gauging progress, to cost-effectively manage for biological diversity within working forests and communicate outcomes to stakeholders. Forest certification systems offer a formalized approach for meeting biodiversity goals and demonstrating accomplishments.
Toward a Rational Exuberance for Ecosystem Services Markets
Authors: Kline Jeffrey D. , Mazzotta Marisa J. , Patterson Trista M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Ecosystem services markets have become a popular topic among environmental policymakers and ecosystem protection advocates. Their proponents view markets as a promising new way to finance conservation of threatened ecosystems worldwide at a time when the need for additional protection seems especially critical. Their advocates in forestry promise that such markets will soon offer new financial opportunities to forest landowners to augment or even replace income from the sale of timber, thereby increasing financial incentives for landowners to retain land in forests. But what is the real promise in ecosystem services markets and what can realistically be achieved by their implementation? We provide an overview of how environmental markets work in theory and discuss several issues that influence how effective they can be. We conclude that the promise of ecosystem services markets greatly depends on the particular circumstances of program implementation, including what services are to be traded and whether they are amenable to trading, the ability to enact and enforce regulation sufficient to induce trading, and how expected program results compare with those likely to arise from other conservation policy approaches.
Combining Biomass Harvest and Forest Fuel Reduction in the Superior National Forest, Minnesota
Authors: Demchik Michael C. , Abbas Dalia , Current Dean , Arnosti Don , Theimer Myra , Johnson Patty 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Combining biomass harvest with forest fuel reduction may reduce the costs of fuel treatments. Our objectives were to determine the impact of combined biomass/fuel reduction harvests on the pools of forest fuels and to determine whether biomass harvest reduced the cost of mechanical fuel treatments. We tested two potential biomass harvest systems in wildland–urban interface areas with forest fuel accumulations on the Superior National Forest in Minnesota. Both systems performed similarly in terms of cost and efficiency at harvesting biomass. Overall, the cost of biomass harvest was impacted by site conditions, forwarding distance, the number of units harvested with one machine haul, the number of machines that were hauled, acres harvested, and inclusion of roundwood. Income from the sale of biomass did not cover the costs of harvest and delivery; however, for hauls of less than 100 mi, harvest may reduce the cost of the fuel reduction activity.
Segmenting Landowners Based on Their Information-Seeking Behavior: A Look at Landowner Education on the Red Oak Borer
Authors: G.C. Surendra , Mehmood Sayeed , Schelhas John 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This study uses a segmentation technique to classify landowners into four relevant groups to explore their information-seeking behavior about the red oak borer—an insect pest found primarily in the Ozark and Ouachita regions of Arkansas. Cluster Analysis technique was used to classify landowners into four groups—amenity focused rural, amenity focused urban, passive rural, and passive urban landowners—based on ownership objectives and rural and urban residence of the landowner. A relatively higher proportion (58%) of amenity focused rural landowners were familiar with red oak borer problems while the level of familiarity was more or less similar among passive rural (35%), amenity focused urban (36%), and passive urban (33%) landowners. Urban residents primarily received information about the red oak borer through mass media whereas rural residents relied on personal communication. Those that had taken some steps to reduce red oak borer impacts ranged from 14 to 19% among amenity focused urban, passive rural, and amenity focused rural landowners while none of the passive urban landowners had taken any action. The results from our study also suggest that targeting landowners based on their ownership objectives may be useful to stimulate forest management. If suitably targeted to amenity focused landowners, personal communication, although expensive and time-consuming, can be fruitful and a more efficient way to optimize resources.
Forest Scientist Views of Regulatory Obstacles to Research and Development of Transgenic Forest Biotechnology
Authors: Strauss Steve H. , Schmitt Mikaela , Sedjo Roger 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Despite many dozens of research projects, hundreds of field trials, and a long commercialized fruit tree, virus-resistant papaya, there continues to be very little public or private sector activity in the United States that is directed toward development of transgenic forest trees. We therefore undertook a survey of scientists knowledgeable in forest biotechnologies, breeding, ecology, and regulation to assess if they believed that the regulatory regime in the United States presents a significant obstacle to research or commercial development. Conducted in 2007, there were a total of 90 respondents (60% response rate) from throughout the United States. The large majority believed that regulations, in particular containment requirements during field evaluation, posed significant obstacles to development. Top priorities for research included development of gene containment methods and field studies of wood and abiotic stress modification. Priorities for regulatory reform included development of a tiered system and provisional authorizations to enable long-term field research.
Assessing the Impact of Climate Change on Urban Tree Species Selection: A Case Study in Philadelphia
Authors: Yang Jun 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Rapid climate change can have a significant impact on the distribution and biology of trees. As a proactive adaptation measure, cities can stock their urban forests with tree species that will perform well in predicted future climates. This article presents a method for assessing the suitability of urban tree species for predicted future climates through a case study in Philadelphia. Changes of the optimal distribution ranges of major tree species planted in Philadelphia were evaluated by comparing the climate envelopes of those species with the predicted climate in the midcentury. Influences of climate change on major tree disease and pests in Philadelphia were also assessed by inspecting the potential effects of climate change on the biology of pathogens and pests. The results indicate that the future climate in Philadelphia will become less optimal for 10 tree species, while two species will thrive. Major pests and diseases in Philadelphia will generally become more problematic but occurrences of several diseases and pests may decline. It was suggested that the optimal distribution ranges of trees and their maintenance needs must be considered at the same time when selecting tree species for urban greening projects. Overall, the predicted climate change in Philadelphia will likely increase the choices of tree species for the city.
Promoting Ecological Sustainability in Woody Biomass Harvesting
Authors: Janowiak Maria K. , Webster Christopher R. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Enthusiasm for the use of forest biomass as an energy resource is growing as a result of increased energy costs and a desire to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate change. Although the opportunity exists for forests to have a significant role in the development and use of bioenergy technologies, justifiable concerns regarding the long-term sustainability of using forest-based energy feedstocks have emerged. In this article, we review the state of our knowledge regarding the impacts of intensive forestry with respect to issues relevant to bioenergy production, including soil and site productivity, hydrologic quality, and biodiversity. We then present guiding principles intended to aid with sustainable forest management decisions.
Private Forest Habitat for At-Risk Species: Where is it and where Might it be Changing?
Authors: Stein Susan M. , McRoberts Ronald E. , Nelson Mark D. , Mahal Lisa , Flather Curtis H. , Alig Ralph J. , Comas Sara 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Owned by individuals, families, corporations, and other private groups, private forests account for almost 60% of all forestland in the conterminous United States and provide critical habitat for wildlife, including over 3,700 at-risk plant and animal species. Extensive areas of private forest and other land covers have experienced increased housing development in recent years, with numerous implications for wildlife conservation. Twenty-eight percent of all private forests are under corporate ownership and provide important wildlife habitat. In some areas of the country, large amounts of private forest under corporate ownership are being sold and, in some cases, subdivided, with consequent implications for at-risk species conservation. Sponsored by the US Forest Service, the Forests on the Edge (FOTE) project uses geographic information systems to identify areas across the United States where private forests provide important services that might be detrimentally affected by increased housing and other threats. This article presents the results of FOTE research on the importance of private forests in general, and corporate forests in particular, to at-risk species. It also identifies areas across the country where future housing development on private forests could further reduce wildlife habitat. Results indicate that private forests and private corporate forests in the West Coast states, parts of the Gulf and Atlantic Coasts, as well as interior areas of the Southeast provide habitat for a large number of at-risk species and that these areas are also among those where private forests are most likely to experience increased housing development.
Socioeconomic Changes and Forestland Development: Commonalities and Distinctions between the Eastern and Western United States
Authors: White Eric M. , Alig Ralph J. , Stein Susan M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Impacts of rural land development on natural resources in the United States have been well documented and research on rural land development provides important inputs to land conservation policy and program development. Although numerous land-use studies have been completed for the western and eastern states, still lacking is a single study examining changes in population, housing, and land development in the two regions. To provide context for natural resource and land conservation programs and policies, we quantify recent and long-term changes in population and housing, rural development rates, and land-use transitions involving forests for the eastern and western regions. Relative to the West, the East has a more evenly distributed population and has experienced greater population increases, rates of land development, and forestland conversion. We discuss these patterns of population growth and land development in the context of natural resource policies and forestland goods and services.
Deficiencies of Undergraduate Forestry Curricula in Their Social Sciences and Humanities Requirements
Authors: Vonhof Sarah 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Arguments stressing the importance of the social sciences and humanities in forest and natural resources education have appeared in the literature since the inception of the profession of forestry in America. Nevertheless, undergraduate education in forest and natural resources management emphasizes the biophysical sciences. This article examines undergraduate curricula for their requirements in various disciplines. The results of two studies show that social sciences and humanities are not well represented in forestry and natural resources management curricula. Thus, graduates of baccalaureate degree programs in forest and natural resources management may not possess the knowledge and skills necessary to manage resources in an ever-changing, complex social context.
Forestry's Conundrum: High Value, Low Relevance
Authors: Hull R. Bruce 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Forests have never been more valuable or more at risk. So why isn't public attention riveted on forests? Why isn't Forestry's relevance increasing? The Journal is full of laments about Forestry being misunderstood by the public and misrepresented by media. This is a legitimate concern. However, a bigger problem exists: the declining political and economic power of Forestry's traditional patrons. Forestry is a service-oriented profession that emerged and evolved to meet the needs of powerful patrons; and several of these patrons—government agencies, forest industry, and commodity producing landowners—have declining power and influence. Forestry's future lies with new patrons: environmental nongovernment organizations, residential forest investors, and the working green infrastructure. Servicing these groups will require Forestry to develop new tools and tactics.