EcoNSilva is a research project focused on the economic aspects of close-to-nature forest management.
Close-to-nature forest management treats the forest as an ecosystem with interconnected natural, production and social functions. It makes use of natural processes, supports species, age and spatial diversity of stands, and at the same time aims for economically efficient wood production.
The project connects forestry research with the practical needs of forest owners and managers. It focuses on how different management approaches translate into costs, revenues, harvest potential and the long-term economic efficiency of forest management.
The analyses will be based on real operational, economic and inventory data from the selected demonstration sites.
The economic evaluation will be carried out over short-term, medium-term and long-term horizons.
The modelling will use both approaches that account for the time factor — in particular the net present value method — and calculations that do not account for the time factor.
The results of close-to-nature management will be compared with traditional clear-cut management methods.