Analysing silvicultural alternatives to clear-cutting based on updated bio-economic models and new approaches to uncertainty

In the project “Analysing silvicultural alternatives to clear-cutting based on updated bio-economic models and new approaches to uncertainty” bio-economic models are further developed for the simulation of mixed, uneven-aged forest stands under risks. The optimization process of mixed forest stands is attempted to be improved through new growth data and treatments. This will also focus on the integration of uncertainty into the models. Non-stochastic, robust portfolio optimization are used and expanded to reach more stable forest portfolios.

Uncertainties are considered as fluctuating wood prices and management costs for establishing, thinning and harvesting but also the possible failure of a whole forest stand. The simulations of forest stands shall show effects of mixture and management on the stability but also demonstrate the economic advantages of uneven-aged stands considering risks.