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Integrated forest management
Integrated Forest Management is a concept in (Dutch) forestry focusing on the integration of
forest functions. It promotes small-scale management interventions, the absence of monocultures,
little or no wood production, and limited human intervention but rather using natural
processes such as natural regeneration. The previous forest management plan (of 1996) was
based on this concept.
In the previous management period, a vast part of the forest (monocultures with wood production)
had been turned into multi-species forest. There are less large-scale clear-cut areas and
there is more diversity and structure in the forest, through the development of forest layers
within the forest. From this can be derived that the biodiversity, and with that the way visitors
experience the forest, has been improved. Without stepping away from the concept of integrated
forest management, a higher amount of the current growth, i.e. about 70%, can be harvested,
which will give forest development a positive impulse. Harvesting wood doesn’t have to
harm biodiversity or nature values. Where conditions are right, thinning and harvesting will be
allowed again (this after a period of very limited wood production). The forest zoning map
makes clear which forest function is dominant in the respective parts of the forest. Integration
of functions, however, will still be the lead principle. The forest management types map divides
the forest in several types, each with a set of appropriate management directions/principles.
Special projects, such as the development of forest corridors and gradual transitions, are
also mapped.
Integration of functions, also within the public organization
The concept of Integrated Forest Management was used previously as applying to forest functions.
A new aspect has been added to this definition in the current plan, by applying the integrated
approach also in policy development, plan making and the organizational structure.
One of the conclusions is that it will be necessary to make an integral policy (Master plan)
which includes all aspects related tot forest and nature management, such as grazing, fauna
management, maintenance of roads and ensuring safety. So far, forest management has been
seen as the task of forest managers only. However, forests currently fulfil another function as
well. Besides participation of inhabitants, forest management should now (indirectly) also be
considered by other municipal departments. This requires another approach during the development
and implementation of a (management) plan.
Prunus serotina
There is a problem with the invasion of (seedlings of) Prunus serotina, an exotic and very invasive
shrub species which makes life of native species (trees, shrubs and plants) hard. This problem
has been recognised and needs a strategic approach. If the Prunus problem is not solved
first, other management measures (such as regeneration of native species) do not make sense.
Using chemical means (glyfosat / round-up) in addition to other control methods will be necessary.
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