Special forest products: integrating social, economic, and biological considerations into ecosystem management.

Abstract

Throughout history, forests have provided a wealth of beneficial and essential products ranging from foods and medicines to building materials. Ancient pharmacopoeias list myriad forest plants and fungi for treating various ailments. Many of these ancient remedies have evolved and continue to evolve into the important drugs of modern medicine. Use of diverse forest species remains commonplace around the world, particularly in cultures with strong rural traditions. Even in the most technologically advanced societies, traditional uses of forest products continue, often as recreational pursuits. For example, the tradition of collecting and consuming wild edible forest mushrooms by Europeans and Asians continues by their descendants in North America.

Citation

Molina, R.; Vance, N.; Weigand, J.F.; Pilz, D.; Amaranthus, M.P. 1997. Special forest products: integrating social, economic, and biological considerations into ecosystem management. In: Kohm, K.A.; Franklin, J.F., eds. Creating a forestry for the 21st century: the science of ecosystem management. Covelo, CA: Island Press: 315-336.