Integral Forestry understands that:
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Residents hold diverse perspectives and value systems in relation to the forest that surrounds them.
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These perspectives and value systems are guided and influenced by a mix of social, economic, scientific, spiritual, psychological, cultural, political, historical and institutional lenses.
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Each of these perspectives is valuable and pertinent and must, therefore, be considered when coming up with solutions and action plans.
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By including and building upon these perspectives, solutions will be more complete and viable in regard to how the community and the forest can interface.
The term ‘Integral Forestry’ also describes an approach to forestry that:
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First determines the ecological limits to human uses of a specified land area, and then, given these limits, applies management strategies that will maintain a fully functioning ecosystem over time.
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Implements management strategies that consider humans as part of the ecosystem and that aim to improve social conditions such as local employment levels, fire safety, community stability, local economic opportunities, and respect and understanding among residents.