metsanduses

Metsanduses is a concept in forestry used to describe the planning and management of forest resources to achieve multiple objectives. It treats forests as multi-use systems where economic activities, environmental protection, and social values are balanced rather than pursued in isolation.

Core uses include timber production and fiber for industry, but also non-timber forest products (berries, mushrooms, resin), recreation and tourism, biodiversity conservation, water and soil protection, and cultural or spiritual values. Sustainable metsanduses aims to maintain forest productivity while safeguarding ecosystem services and resilience to disturbances.

Implementation typically relies on forest management plans, silvicultural practices, and harvest regimes designed to balance growth and yield with conservation goals. Certification schemes such as FSC and PEFC are commonly used to verify sustainable practices, while legal frameworks and stakeholder consultation guide operational decisions.

Monitoring indicators include harvest volume, age and structure of stands, regeneration success, biodiversity, and area under protection. Adaptive management and periodic reassessment help adjust plans to changing conditions and new scientific knowledge.

Challenges facing metsanduses include climate change, pests and diseases, land-use pressure, fragmentation, and conflicts among recreation, conservation, and timber objectives. Ongoing research and data-driven planning support more resilient, equitable forest use.