Developing a multi-objective model forest management plan using GIS and goal programming (a case study of ormanüstü planning unit)

SUMMARY Developing A Multi-Objective Model Forest Management Plan using GIS and Goal Programming (A Case Study of Ormanüstü Planning Unit) The ultimate objective of forest management is to control forest ecosystems on the basis of sustainable use of multiple values without jeopardizing ecological integrity. In this research, multi-objective forest management planning process and application were realized in a case study involving Ormanüstü Planning Unit, Maçka, Trabzon. Forest values were quantitatively determined. Data were collected from temporary and permanent sample plots. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were used to establish the spatial database and to conduct necessary spatial analysis. Goal programming and Delphi object oriented programming language were used in developing multi objective forest management planning model (ÇAPMOD). Forest values considered as forest management objectives in the model include wood production, soil protection and water supply. Growth and yield relations of stands were determined by modeling. Existing yield tables were used for beech and alder species. However, yield table for spruce was newly developed for different stand density. For K.T.U. Faculty of Forestry Research Forest, various management options were tested. These include combinations of maximizing wood production while minimizing soil erosion and maximizing water supply. These three objectives were prioritized differently and the best results were obtained in three alternative models for spruce and five for beech and alder planning subunits. This research developed a multi-objective forest management planning process that provided optimum schedule in terms of quality of the data used, quality of the results obtained, timing of plan preparation which all together eliminate the tedious work of classical forest management process. The multi-objective planning approach should seriously be considered during the preparation of forest management plans in Turkey. Key Words : Multi Objective Planning, Forest Values, Goal Programming, GIS, Database, Growth and Yield Modeling. VII