Network Framework for Forest Ecology and Management

Abstract Applications of network science to forest ecology and management are rapidly being adopted as important conceptualization and quantitative tools. This chapter highlights the potential of network analysis to help forest managers develop strategies that foster forest resilience in our changing environment. We describe how networks have been used to represent different types of associations within forest ecosystems by providing examples of species interaction networks, spatial and spatiotemporal networks, and social and social-ecological networks. We then review basic measures used to describe their topology and explain their relevance to different management situations. We conclude by presenting the challenges and potential opportunities for an effective integration of network analysis with forest ecology and management.