Multiple-Pass Harvesting and Spatial Constraints: An Old Technique Applied to a New Problem

Abstract

A methodology for approximating and incorporating spatial harvesting constraints into forest-level, aspatial models is presented. First, operational cut block scheduling methods based on map-coloring theory are used to sample the number of passes and the percentage of area-per-pass that can be harvested without violating adjacency and exclusion period constraints for a given set of harvesting guidelines. These results are defined as spatial approximation rules, and they are subsequently used to control harvest rates within a spatial approximation model. In test cases, the multiple-pass harvesting technique used in the spatial approximation model appears to closely estimate actual cut block schedules. Two major advantages of the spatial approximation technique are: (1) the onerous task of designing and scheduling cut blocks for an entire forest is not necessary, and (2) policy analysis is enhanced because the spatial approximation rules can be quickly altered to reflect different harvesting guidelines. Model calibration and optimization of harvest timings are identified as areas requiring further research. FOR. SCI. 39(1):137-151.