Embedding science and innovation in forest management: Recent experiences at Millar Western in west-central Alberta

Abstract

Research from scientists embedded within Millar Western’s forest management planning process over the last 14 years was enabled by strong corporate leadership, cooperation by Alberta’s Ministry of Sustainable Resource Development, and funding by the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta. Results of the supporting research are described in the articles that follow and are important contributions to Canada’s commitment to sustainable forest management (SFM). The process is as noteworthy as the results and is the subject of this paper. When scientists and practitioners work closely together in developing a forest management plan, as they have in this case, there is a much greater opportunity for science-based emergent strategies to be created and applied through the personal interactions among scientists and practitioners. For example, input from the science-based collaborators influenced the harvest schedule in the detailed forest management plan to minimize negative effects on water flow, biodiversity and fire risk. This approach to SFM is one of many being developed in Alberta. The diversity of input has clear benefits, not the least of which is the maintenance of innovation and intellectual enterprise in support of SFM. Key words: forest management planning, forest science, innovation, Alberta, biodiversity, timber supply, guidelines