Decision Support Framework: A Mental Model for Integrating the Environmental and Human Dimensions into Decision Making Related to Changes in Natural Disturbance Events

Abstract

This discussion paper builds on the synthesis component of the Future Forest Ecosystem Scientific Council (FFESC) project and discusses how current and projected changes in natural disturbance are being linked with existing decision frameworks within government and forest companies in British Columbia. Based on information gathered through an online survey, face-to-face discussion sessions, and a review of the literature, a proposed decision support framework is discussed. This framework is presented in the form of a mental model to provide strategic guidance on one possible way to integrate information related to projected changes in natural disturbance for on-the-ground actions and decisions.