Importance of population data in forest management planning

Recent shifts in emphasis to preservation of biological diversity and establishment of large nature reserves have resulted in downgrading of the perceived importance of data at the population level. These shifts in emphasis, while laudable, should not result in loss of focus on the fundamental importance of population information. Suitable habitat, although a prime necessity, is not sufficient for wildlife preservation. Species may not occupy otherwise suitable habitat because of internal (predation, interspecific competition, disease) or external (adverse climate, exploitation, disturbance, impact of exotic species, pollution and toxicants) factors. Historical impacts may persist for many years, and may require active restoration. Forest management plans must consider population data on a metapopulation scale. Data for common species can be at the reconnaissance level whereas for threatened or sensitive species they need to be more detailed. To evaluate sustainability, population data must be integrated with forest stand data in projection models to predict habitat-population mosaics at various times in the future. These models must be developed and improved over time in an adaptive management approach.