Eastside forest management practices: historical overview, extent of their application, and their effects on sustainability of ecosystems.

Abstract

historical and Forest management of eastern Oregon and Washington began in the late 1800s as extensive utilization of forests for grazing, timber, and irrigation water. With time, protection of these values developed into active management for these and other values such as recreation. Silvicultural and administrative practices, developed to solve problems at a particular time have lingered and created confusion and consternation when knowledge, values, and vegetation conditions have changed. The present condition of most eastern Oregon and Washington forests is the result of disturbance and regrowth processes coupled with historical management practices. Most areas contain high levels of insects, diseases, and fuels. Without many, diverse, cre-ative, and active solutions, large fires and insect outbreaks will occur-with local loss of ecosystem and human values.