Predictive adaptive management - Applying natural resource management research

To advance-forest management in an ''ecosystem context,'' we must begin implementing larger-scale (at least watershed-level), operationally meaningful forest management research. Adaptive management offers that potential, and, with proper modifications (predictive adaptive management, or PAM), it could incorporate social interests. The PAM approach 1) includes appropriate publics in management decisions, 2) addresses regional and local concerns, 3) implements existing knowledge, 4) integrates research teams, and 5) implements ecosystem management even lacking complete knowledge. After appropriate publics agree on desired outputs, monitoring is restricted to documenting implementation (did the operation conform to specifications?) and delivery of identified outputs. Monitoring provides information for successional predictions and feedback for future PAM operations.