PARENT SESSION
Symposium 12: Bridging the divide: Bringing theory into practice in forest biodiversity conservation
Organized by: LA Schulte, R Mitchell , ML Hunter, J Franklin, RK McIntyre, and B Palik
Wednesday, August 10, 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM, Meeting Room 517 C, Level 5, Palais des congrès de Montréal

Next steps: An overview of the past and proposals regarding the future in application of theory to forest conservation.

Franklin, Jerry¹, ¹ University of Washington, Seattle, WA

ABSTRACT- Existing ecological theory is being widely applied in forest conservation programs, which typically incorporate multiple constructs. As is the case with most general ecological theory, specific applications are often idiosyncratic reflecting the peculiarities of the biota and the historical and current social context. The proof of the effectiveness of ecological theory in underpinning successful forest conservation programs lies in critical evaluation of the performance of these programs. Unfortunately, there is little investment in such assessments. Hence, establishment of some forest conservation projects that fully embrace the principles of adaptive management, such as credible and focused monitoring and statistically-designed experiments, is of critical importance. The need for further development of general ecological theory would be elucidated by critical evaluations of some exemplary forest conservation programs.

Key words: forest, conservation, theory, management