Cross-Boundary Coordination on Forested Landscapes: Investigating Alternatives for Implementation |
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Authors: | Rebecca J Gass Mark Rickenbach Lisa A Schulte Kimberly Zeuli |
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Institution: | (1) Division of Forestry, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707, USA;(2) Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 120 Russell Laboratories, 1630 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA;(3) Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management, Iowa State University, 339 Science II, Ames, IA 50011, USA;(4) 209 Oxford Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA |
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Abstract: | Cross-boundary coordination is a tool for ecosystem management whereby landowners voluntarily coordinate management practices
toward economic and/or ecological landscape-scale outcomes (e.g., fiber, invasive species control, habitat). Past research
indicates that it may be particularly applicable on landscapes that include small forest landholdings. To explore alternatives
by which coordination might occur, we conducted seven focus groups with landowners (n = 51) who actively manage their forests in southwest Wisconsin and northeast Iowa. Focus group participants were presented
with three hypothetical alternatives to coordinate with their neighbors; landowners could self-organize, work with a natural
resource professional (i.e., forester), or work with an organization to complete a cross-boundary practice. In this article,
we focus on the latter two alternatives and the role of two social theories—principal-agent and cooperation—in explaining
landowners’ evaluations of these alternatives. Key findings are that (1) cross-boundary coordination has the potential to
alleviate problems between landowners and resource professionals inherent to their typical working relationship, and (2) social
relationships are a major factor contributing to landowners’ willingness to participate. We posit that cross-boundary coordination
offers a non-economic incentive for landowners to work together as it may reduce the uncertainty associated with hiring a
resource professional. At the same time, professionals can provide a bridging function among landowners who are unacquainted.
To achieve these outcomes and expand the adoption of cross-boundary coordination, we suggest four guidelines. First, foster
dialogue among landowners toward shared cognition and oversight. Second, match landowners’ practices and objectives such that
there are clear benefits to all. Third, develop relationships through low risk activities where possible. Fourth, do not expect
on-going commitments.
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Keywords: | Forest landowners Cross-boundary coordination Cooperation Principal-agent Agency theory Private forestry Private forest ownerships |
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