An analysis of the US National Forest Management from a perspective of people's resources
2001
Ota, I. (Kyoto Univ. (Japan))
The National Forest System in the United States, which was originally established in 1891 as forest reserve, has continued to be a unique experience for the public management of forest resources. This paper analyzes the historical transition of the National Forest management scheme, and discusses its role as a forest for the people. Forest reserves were renamed as National Forests by the first chief, Ptnchot, in 1907. The author describes a hypothesis that National Forest was intended to be National Conservation Forest, and shows the philosophy of wise use that continued until recent years. The history of the US National Forest can be divided into three periods: 1) custodial management, 2) timber dominant, and 3) ecosystem centered. By applying public interest concepts of environmental law, these three periods of forest management are examined. In addition, whether or not the acceptance of ecosystem centered forest management means a philosophical change from Pinchot to Leopold is discussed. Finally, the future prospects of ecosystem management are mentioned, and it is concluded that a great deal of sincere effort would be required to realize people's forests.
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