Forestland development and private forestry with examples from Oregon (USA)

Growing human populations inevitably lead to the conversion of some forestlands to more intensive developed uses. Resulting landscape changes can influence long-term timber production possibilities, and affect the quantity and quality of wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation and open spaces that contribute to people's quality of life. Anticipating the potential effects of forestland development can be important to formulating management and policy strategies that balance the multiple demands of society regarding land for development, resource production, and environmental protection. Previous research conducted in western Oregon has: 1) examined factors related to historical forestland development and projected future development; and 2) examined effects of forestland development on private forest management and investment activities. We briefly review these previous research efforts, and combine their resulting data and models to examine what projected forestland development might mean for private forestry in western Oregon over the next 50 years. The analysis draws together a broad body of recent research focused on western Oregon, to provide a context for discussing forestland development issues and their management and policy implications for the U.S. and abroad.