Dietmar W. Rose

Heuristic simulation: an alternative to linear programming in developing forest management schedules

Abstract Heuristic simulations can overcome many of the limitations of mathematical programming techniques in solving forest management scheduling problems. Trial runs with one such stand-sorting techniques simulator, employing single and multiple sorting criteria, demonstrated the flexibility of the approach. While linear programming (LP) solutions for test cases, small enough to be formulated and solved by LP, show the superiority of optimal solution techniques, heuristic-simulation approaches have an advantage for the typically large scheduling problems that cannot be solved via LP, or only after data aggregation with all its associated problems are presented.

Shadow pricing trade-offs between timber supply and environmental quality.

This paper summarizes results of a statewide study that analyzed strategies that can enhance environmental quality while maintaining forest productivity. Two strategies were examined: intensified management on selected forest sites, and expansion of timber production to marginal agricultural lands. Both these practices can reduce the acres required to meet specific timber demands. Preliminary results show that environmental restrictions imposed on timber harvesting without increased timber productivity will lead to timber supply shortages and sharply rising timber prices for forest industries in Minnesota. On the other hand, wood production on marginal agricultural sites can eliminate timber supply shortfalls, reduce the upward pressure on timber prices and reduce harvest of forest land. Critical forest sites can thus be protected while aforestation of agricultural sites can provide additional environmental benefits.