Clustering-based typology and analysis of private small-scale forest owners in Slovenia

- Clustering using k-medoids algorithm resulted in two types of small-scale owners: “engaged” and “detached”.
- Multi-objective orientation and high valuation of production function are positively related to engaged forest management.
- Geo-spatial analysis reveals that engaged owners reside closer to their parcels and are more affiliated with agriculture.
- Policy instruments are tailored separately for entire group of owners and for type-specific owners.

Small-scale private forest owners (SPFO) have been recognized as a relatively heterogeneous social group; therefore typology and classification have become key to describe their characteristics and differences. Most of Slovenian forest is owned by SPFOs. To understand why these forest estates are relatively poorly managed, the owners' values and objectives were analysed. We conducted a questionnaire-based survey (n=387) and based our typology on three values and four management variables. The typology was constructed automatically, using the k-medoids clustering algorithm. Clustering resulted in two clusters, which were our basis for two types of owners: “engaged” and “detached”. We analysed these two types through socio-economic and broader geo-spatial perspectives. We found that multi-objective orientation and high valuation of production function are positively related to active forest management and to the likelihood that the forest will be managed in the future. Conversely, higher value to environmental and social function corresponds to lower management levels. Spatial patterns of owners residencies and forest estates influence managing decisions. Results confirm the importance of spatial factors and owner values and objectives for understanding forest management.