Ecosystem management in tropical timber plantations: Satisfying Economic, Conservation, and Social Objectives

Abstract

Management of tropical timber plantations is generally based on a single-product output, high-input model, often using an exotic species, that has been successfully used for plantation timber production in many temperate regions. This intensive model may be appropriate in areas designated solely for wood production but where the aim is to produce a wider range of conservation benefits and maintain more ecosystem functions, alternative plantation management approaches will be required. In this paper we describe some alternative management options for tropical forest plantations, incorporating ecosystem management concepts, that can potentially result in a wider range ecosystem benefits from t..