Forests and societal values: comparing scientific and public perception of forest health

摘要: This study examines the common ground between lay people and scientists regarding forest values definitions of health. With at Pinery Provincial Park, Ontario, as a case study, authors compared six ecological indicators to determine which were sensitive multiple impacts visitor use, deer browsing fire suppression. Plant cover proportion native species these impacts. Sapling height was greater in low density areas. The also conducted focused discussions with local interest groups, followed by qualitative data analysis. Overall, there good convergence scientific public views forests health, although this may partly be due groups' nature Pinery. Subjects saw connection their health state global environment, including forests. There is need for increased awareness necessity managing high populations parks protect other components such biodiversity. Forest managers must consider that greatly value near them mental well being. Group responses suggested messages explicitly linking benefits human being motivate