Forest modelling in Quebec: Context, challenges and perspectives

Abstract

Forest productivity models are increasingly being used for the computation of allowable cuts and forest management decision-making in Quebec. A workshop was organized in the spring of 2008 to bring together modellers, managers, users and administrators to provide a forum for the exchange of views and opinions on the challenges and future perspectives in forest modelling. Following a series of oral presentations on the various types of models and their application in forest management, workshop participants held discussions on methodology, collaboration and future directions in modelling. The present article offers a summary of the ideas and suggestions generated during the discussions. Among other things, these dealt with the need to design user-friendly models, with known limitations, that could be used with good quality data and for which it would be possible to calculate the bias and forecasting error. Integrating different types of models or their forecasts is another avenue to consider. In order to effectively collaborate and contribute to the advancement of forest modelling, model developers and users must form multidisciplinary teams and develop efficient communication networks to share their knowledge outside of the usual circles. In the future, the development and adjustment of optimization and complex problem resolution methods as well as a greater use of sensitivity and uncertainty analytical methods will have to be emphasized. Finally, much more importance should be given to criteria other than wood fibre, such as biodiversity, habitat, soils and the effect of climate change.