Woodhill Forest: A candidate for ecosystem management

Abstract

Woodhill is a multi‐use forest, suffering from conflicting management objectives in relation to indigenous vegetation and conservation areas, and the management of a resident fallow deer population. The aim of this paper is to explore the relative merits of adopting an ecosystem management approach, as opposed to a single species approach, in attempting to manage ecological and social conflicts. The concept of ecosystem management entails consideration of the social, as well as the bio‐physical aspects of ecosystems. Assessments of the vegetation response to browsing, the deer population dynamics, and the opinions of stakeholders are integrated, and recommendations are made towards a framework that will both provide a lasting solution, and enhance the conservation outcome for Woodhill Forest. © 2006 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.