Title: Multi-criteria decision models for forestry and natural resources management: an annotated bibliography

Author: de Steiguer, Joseph E.; Liberti, Leslie; Schuler, Albert; Hansen, Bruce

Year: 2003

Publication: Gen. Tech. Rep. NE-307. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Research Station. 32 p.

Abstract: Foresters and natural resource managers must balance conflicting objectives when developing land-management plans. Conflicts may encompass economic, environmental, social, cultural, technical, and aesthetic objectives. Selecting the best combination of management uses from numerous objectives is difficult and challenging. Multi-Criteria Decision Models (MCDM) provide a systematic means for comparing tradeoffs and selecting alternatives that best satisfy the decisionmaker?s objectives. In recent years, the use of MCDM in forestry and natural resources management has generated a substantial body of literature. This annotated bibliography includes 124 important references ranging from theoretical studies to real-world applications of MCDM.