Many tools are used in forest management to help our foresters make the best decisions possible. The most important one used today is
Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a complex mapping and information management tool. All forest resource inventory information as well as forest values information is entered into the
GIS database.
Resolutes recent implementation of a new mapping/information management tool (Woodlands the System) delivers desktop GIS to all of our operations and management personnel. This places important forest resource and planning information at our foresters’ fingertips.
The
Sustainable Forest Management Model (SFMM) is another important tool used in forest management planning. This model allows us to project the future forest condition, taking into account harvest and renewal activities throughout time while also considering non-timber objectives (such as wildlife habitat).
We are now moving toward a
spatial modeling system, which will enhance our ability to predict the effects of different management strategies and to project future forest conditions as a result of specific activities. Spatial modeling will also link inventory information to specific pieces of land in the forest.