Forest health in boreal ecosystems of Alaska

Abstract

Deteriorating forest health is causing unprecedented damage to the boreal forests of Alaska. Forest health is a complex issue that must be addressed within the context of ecosystem management and the goal of managing ecosystems for long-term productivity and maintaining ecosystems that will sustain biodiversity and provide desired values, products and uses. Instead of treating symptoms, forests must be managed to be more resistant to pest outbreaks through proper ecosystem management. Forest health can be addressed through short-term tactical approaches and long-term strategies. Management practices must match the ecological capabilities of each site in order to create and maintain healthy forests. This is the focus of ecosystem management.