The Role of Forest Setting on Partnership Demand and Engagement Approaches

Abstract

National forest officials increasingly work with partners to achieve mission-critical results and to accomplish mutually desired forest management outcomes. Many national forests have invested in partnership coordinators and bolstered efforts to reach out to volunteers, citizen groups, foundations, and stakeholders to expand capacity and enhance community connections. Yet, a forest's sociopolitical setting (metro, rural, or amenity) may affect its opportunities for working with partners. This study explores the extent to which forest setting affects access to partners and volunteers, the types of partners available, and the nature of work performed. Using data from a survey of US Forest Service officials, we explore the extent to which capacities, opportunities, and functions vary by forest setting. Urban-proximate and amenity-destination forests have an inherent advantage over rural counterparts in the availability of partners and volunteers, as well as the array of skills and interests. Partners in rural forest settings engage in very specific types of functions that depend on strong social relations and historical knowledge. We present these findings in relation to the implications for national forest administrators considering the most efficient use of scarce resources to enhance management programs and provide public services.