J. Englin et al., An empirical examination of optimal rotations in a multiple-use forest in the presence of fire risk, J AGR RESOU, 25(1), 2000, pp. 14-27
Fires are an important and natural component of forest ecosystems that affe
ct the timber value of forests, and thus optimal rotations. Fire also affec
ts amenity values provided by forests. This analysis examines the relations
hips among forest fire risk, timber values, and amenity values in a Faustma
nn rotation framework. An empirical application of the model is presented w
here jack pine growth in the Canadian Shield region is integrated with the
nonmarket values associated with wilderness recreation. The results suggest
that while the rotation period of jack pine is shorter in the presence of
lire risk, the inclusion of this particular amenity would lengthen rotation
periods. The level of visits to the wilderness area has a significant effe
ct on the rotation period. Failure to account for backcountry recreation in
rotations of forests in multiple-use wilderness areas of the Canadian Shie
ld would result in suboptimal management.