Test/Retest of Public Preferences for Low-Intensity Timber Management
Investigators:
Thomas Holmes,
Southern Research Station
Kevin Boyle, University of Maine
Description:
There is increasing public interest regarding the management of forest land in the United States. The purpose of this study is to investigate public preferences for low intensity forest management on nonindustrial private forests. Public preferences are elicited in a self-administered survey that includes conjoint and contingent valuation questions. Study participants were surveyed regarding their perceptions of forest ecosystem health, and their preferences for low intensity versus traditional timber harvesting and setting land aside from timber production.
The study was conducted at a University of Maine experimental forest where one half of the land is open to timber harvesting and the other half is closed to timber harvesting. Individuals were recruited from three groups (owners of small private forests, members of Maine Audobon, and members of the general public). All participants were asked to complete a survey at the study site (test) and then were led on a walk with a forest ecologist and provided with scientific information regarding the harvested and non-harvested blocks. After completing their walks, participants were re-administered the survey (re-test). Analyses of the data will address the following issues: (1) the value the public places on low intensity timber harvesting and setting land aside from timber harvesting, (2) whether forest owners, environmentalists and the general public hold different values, (3) whether experiential forest information affects value estimates, and (4) whether conjoint and contingent valuation provide convergent estimates of value.
Problem Area(s):
Public involvement
Status:
Ongoing
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modified:
13-MAR-2000
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USDA FS SRS
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