Nonindustrial Private Forests of Southeast Michigan: Examining Trends and Adapting Engagement to Sustain Forest Amenities

Abstract

Privately owned forests in Michigan provide resources for economic, ecological and social benefits. They are currently undergoing substantial changes: parcelization, fragmentation, spread of invasive and edge species, generational turnover, and changes in landowner interest in forest management. Understanding engagement and management of private forests is essential to maintaining forests amenities that provide billions of dollars for both public and private entities. Available forest management incentives focus mostly on increasing timber on large parcels of land. They are less attentive to nonpecuniary rewards that may help support land use ideals among Southeastern Michigan’s nonindustrial private forest landowners who have smaller than traditional forest acreages. Our research findings suggest that universities and public agencies can incorporate multiple approaches for enhancing the interest of forest owners in their land. Forest product industries may also be able to take advantage of nonpecuniary interests in forests among smaller acreage owners by incorporating the multiple-use demands of this ownership group. Michigan’s forests have already undergone one major shift during the 20th century as social preferences and interests in forests have moved from logging to conservation. The early 21st century may consolidate this shift while providing economic, social, and ecological benefits if government agencies and universities alter their approach to engagement with nonindustrial private forest owners.