Abstract:
Large-scale ecosystem assessments aim to assist ecosystem management by
synthesizing current scientific knowledge on an area, and by providing a foundation
for policy discussions and decisions on land management. These assessments go
beyond traditional research efforts by moving away from narrow scope, system,
and institutional boundaries, and by attempting to integrate knowledge and
relationships on multiple facets of ecosystems. The human dimension of
ecosystems in particular is a relative newcomer to the planning table. This thesis
reviews the social component of four recent large-scale ecosystem assessments.
Objectives were to develop general guidelines for future social components of
ecosystem assessments, and to review the social context of ecosystem management
in Oregon in order to make recommendations for a social assessment within the
state.
A synthesis of existing assessments found consensus on issues which should be
considered in future social assessments, including the need for (1) open,
collaborative public involvement efforts, (2) adequately framed research questions,
(3) addressing varying temporal, social, and spatial scales, and (4) adequate
resources to complete the assessment. These findings indicate that while specifying
a standard framework or methodology for social assessments is problematic, there
is sufficient consensus on the major lessons learned from previous assessments to
propose guidelines for future efforts.
Findings from Oregon indicate that the state population is growing, increasingly
urbanized, and as a whole is becoming less timber-dependent. However, the forest
industry remains highly important to many communities and any future assessment
must examine the vulnerability of these communities to change. The forest values
that are currently ranked most important by state residents are wildlife habitat and
clean water. Public opinion remains negative towards clear-cutting, and the
perception exists that forests are being over-harvested. A sharp regional difference
exists in the state, particularly between Portland residents and those residing east of
the Cascade Mountains. An Oregon social assessment must recognize these
potential "hotspots" in terms of regional disparity in attitudes, community
dependence on the forest industry, and increasing migration into the state. Using
the guidelines synthesized by this project will help to create a more relevant and
socially acceptable Oregon assessment.
