Challenges in Forest Road Maintenance in North America
Elizabeth M. Dodson
Abstract
Maintenance is a key component of managing a forest road network. Forest road networks in North America are managed to provide economic access to forest resources while minimizing the environmental impacts of those roads. While managers understand the importantance of road maintenance, there is a considerable backlog in the maintenance required on most forest road networks. This article reviews challenges across North America in forest road maintenance. Challenges reviewed include those associated with climate change, changing land use and intermingled ownerships, legacy roads, decision support, and financial barriers.
Topics & Concepts
Forest roadBusinessEnvironmental resource managementTransport engineeringEnvironmental planningGeographyEngineeringEnvironmental scienceForestryForest Biomass Utilization and ManagementForest Management and PolicyForest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies