RM-RP-256: Modeling forest scenic beauty: Concepts and application to ponderosa pine

RMRS Online Publication
RM-RP-256: Modeling forest scenic beauty: Concepts and application to ponderosa pine

Brown, Thomas C. and Terry C. Daniel. 1984. Modeling forest scenic beauty: Concepts and application to ponderosa pine. USDA Forest Service Research Paper RM-256, 35 p. Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station, Fort Collins, Colo.

Statistical models are presented which relate near-view scenic beauty of ponderosa pine stands in the Southwest to variables describing physical characteristics. The models suggest that herbage and large ponderosa pine contribute to scenic beauty, while numbers of small and intermediate-sized pine trees and downed wood, especially as slash, detract from scenic beauty. Areas of lower overstory density and less tree clumping were preferred. Moderate harvest of relatively dense stands tends to improve scenic beauty once the stand has recovered from obvious harvest effects. The recovery period can be greatly reduced by slash cleanup.

Keywords: Scenic beauty, landscape assessment, forest esthetics, Pinus ponderosa

About PDFs: For best results, do not open the PDF in your Web browser. Right-click on the PDF link to download the PDF file directly to your computer. Click here for more PDF help or order a printed copy of this publication.

Download RM-RP-256
http://www.fs.fed.us/rm/pubs_rm/rm_rp256.pdf
(Approx. 1 MB)

How to order a publication ...

Title: RM-RP-256: Modeling forest scenic beauty: Concepts and application to ponderosa pine
Electronic Publish Date: March 1, 2004
Last Update: March 1, 2004

Questions about RMRS or this Web site?
Contact Us!

Evaluate Our Service
We welcome your comments on our service and your suggestions for improvement!