Managing Forest Disturbances and Community Responses: Lessons from the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska

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Abstract Managing forest disturbances can be complicated by diverse human community responses. Interviews and quantitative analysis of mail surveys were used to assess risk perceptions and community actions in response to forest disturbance by spruce bark beetles. Despite high risk perception of immediate threats to personal safety and property, risk perceptions of broader threats to community and ecological well-being were found to be more likely to influence participation in community action. Results imply that increased dialogue between resource managers and local community residents contributes to broader risk assessment and prioritization of risk mitigation strategies. Identifying community risk perceptions, tapping into local capacities for action, and accepting controversy facilitate sound decisionmaking and give voice to local concerns regarding risk mitigation after forest disturbance.