Université Laval
M.Sc. candidate
Supervisor: Jean-François Bissonnette
Start: 2021-01-18
End: 2022-12-12

Project

Assessment of the naturalness and social acceptability of white spruce plantations subjected to various thinning methods
The project focuses on the assessment of the naturalness and social acceptability of plantations subject to various commercial thinning methods. It fits into a framework of ecosystem management in Quebec. This management model involves the development of silvicultural scenarios allowing both to achieve the objectives of increased wood production while safeguarding the natural character of the stand. Indeed, the assessment of the naturalness of forests in an ecosystem management context requires a good knowledge of biological and technical data, in particular stand growth models, applicable silvicultural regimes, more or less harmonized international standards and guidelines. Although the efforts of decision-makers and researchers have long been focused on these technical considerations, it increasingly turns out that the assessment of naturalness as an ecosystem management tool should consider the socio-economic aspect for ensure the sustainability of forest resources. Because the main obstacles and opportunities for the success of ecosystem management can be found in dimensions emanating mainly from the human and social sciences (sociological, anthropological, psychological, economic contexts). In this sense, this project aims to survey different segments of the population to assess the social acceptability of treatments, and analyze the results according to the naturalness and structural diversity of the stands. The project will thus enable forest managers, silviculturists, and all forestry stakeholders to identify the social and natural parameters to be respected on good quality stations, whether or not they are located in areas frequently used by population. This will pave the way for a better reconciliation between forest management, the supply of processing plants and the use of forests for purposes other than timber production.