Multilevel planning in forestry

Abstract

This dissertation is a study of multilevel planning in forestry. Two models are investigated, the holistic model and the compromise model. A sample problem is formulated to demonstrate each model. The holistic model formulates the harvest scheduling problem of maximizing net present value with harvest flow and adjacency constraints. The compromise model, using a hierarchical optimization model, formulates the allocation of volume in a large diversified forest products firm. Numerical results are only presented for the holistic case, since it appears to be the currently more relevant problem studied within the hierarchical approach to forest management. These results appear to be favorable, considering the complexity of the addressed problem. The role of the model within the hierarchal approach is also discussed. The derived interpretation of the holistic model, with the contrast of the compromise model suggests new strategies and stricter formulations for multilevel planning models appearing in forestry.