The PractiSFM multi-resource inventory protocol and Decision Support System. A model to address the private forest resource information gap in Ireland.

Abstract

During the last 20 years, the size of the forest estate in Ireland has increased dramatically. Inventory and management information on the (FSC-certified) publicly-owned forest is widely available, however details on the rapidly expanding private estate, both in terms of inventory data and management objectives, are missing. The PractiSFM inventory protocol and Decision Support System (DSS) comprises Microsoft ExcelTM based modules that allow forest managers to analyse multi-resource inventory data and to project the development of a forest under a range of management alternatives. After each simulation, reports in tabular, graphic and map format are produced on a wide range of variables. Visual tools (i.e. an interactive map interface and a goal analysis module) have been incorporated into the program to refine alternatives and to facilitate choice amongst alternatives. It is suggested that use of the PractiSFM inventory and decision support model will allow for the reporting of essential information on the state, development and management of the private forest estate to the State forest authorities. These standardised data can then form the basis for a multi-resource forest inventory and timber (and non-timber) production forecast for the private forests, complementing the already available information on the publicly-owned forest and the results of the low-resolution national forest inventory (NFI) that has recently been completed.