Forest Inventory Problem Formulation

Abstract

Developing ability to understand the decision problem, to assess information needs and to formulate matching inventory design, are the primary capacity building task for any forest inventory institution. A special effort is required on the part of a forest inventory specialist to fully understand the problem, in as much detail as possible, and even anticipate information likely to be asked later, as the decision makers have often a very vague idea of the problem and may not be in a position to state precisely the problem, still less to specify the information required. The users of information are statisticians, economic analysts and staff associated with policy makers. Very often, they too have hazy ideas, which become clearer as inventory planning proceeds and as more information comes to light. In view of these considerations, the decision process needs to be viewed in a holistic manner while formulating objectives of a forest inventory and identifying the information needs. The Chapter illustrates the process for different planning situations.