Aleš Poljanec

Factors related to natural disturbances in mountain Norway spruce (Picea abies) forests in the Julian Alps.

Abstract: An analysis of natural disturbances in the Julian Alps was carried out in the Jelovica-Pokljuka region (9627 ha) for the period 1979–2006. Data from salvage cuttings were used to examine the occurrence of windthrow, snow break, and insect attack disturbances in relation to site and stand characteristics, previous disturbances, and forest management. Forest stands at the site were characterized by a high growing stock (400 m3·ha-1 on average) and a large proportion of Norway spruce (87%). Salvage cutting due to windthrow, snow break and insect attacks was strongly related to altitude, aspect, topographic position, diameter structure, developmental phase of the stands, and forest landscape heterogeneity. Pole stands were more susceptible to snow breakage and less susceptible to windthrow and insect attack. A more heterogeneous forest landscape increased the risk of windthrow and insect attack occurrence, while the severity of all natural disturbances was lower in more heterogeneous forest landscapes. Natural disturbances and previous cuttings also significantly influenced the likelihood of occurrence and the severity of subsequent disturbances. To improve stand resistance, forest management measures considering the silviculture system and thinning are discussed. Nomenclature: Pfeffer, 1995; Oberdorfer, 2001.

Stakeholder analysis in the biomass energy development based on the experts’ opinions: the example of Triglav National Park in Slovenia

Abstract The paper presents a method for identifying and classifying local stakeholders involved in renewable energy development. The method is based on the expert assessment and comprises three main steps: (1) identification of the independent experts considering their expertise and knowledge of the local context; (2) identification of the local stakeholders based on expert assessment; and (3) analytical categorisation of stakeholders taking into account the professional relationship network. Using forest biomass (bioenergy) production as example, the stakeholder analysis is illustrated on the case study of Triglav National Park, which is characterised by a high potential of woody biomass production and a large number of stakeholders involved in land use and management. The first stage of stakeholder analysis identifies the key stakeholders to be involved in bioenergy development, through a survey with local experts. The results highlight eight key stakeholders and several primary and secondary stakeholders that should be involved to ensure socially acceptable decision-making about the renewable energy development in the Triglav National Park.