Forecasting analysis will be conducted using the US Forest Assessment System (USFAS) developed for the national RPA assessments. This system interprets forest uses (land use and timber production) in the context of forest growth dynamics (including natural succession, disturbance, and climate) to forecast forest conditions. We divide the analysis of forecasts into three major areas: (1) land use change, driven by various social and economic factors, (2) forest products markets, driven by markets for various goods and services, and (3) forest condition forecasts driven by human uses and various biophysical factors, including climate.

Forecasts using the USFAS and ancillary models will be driven by a set of scenarios developed for the Futures Project. These scenarios will be designed to evaluate a broad suite of potential futures that could alter forests in the region. Note: Scenarios will be described in a separate document.