Perspectives: Long term forest ecosystem studies in Eastern Australia

Long term studies in forestry are essential to maintain and improve forest management, however, the success of such studies is low. Success measured as achieving the stated long-term objectives of the study. Case-studies of longterm studies in Eastern Australian native forests, specifically in the fields of hydrology, repeated burning and silviculture/ecology are reviewed. Forty-six studies were considered and of these about 25% reach a point where their initial objectives are met and published. All except one study were established on within commercial forest (forests harvested for timber) and the objectives relate to ascertaining effects of manipulation. The reasons for failure relate to loss of key researchers, re-structuring of research organisations and changes in tenure of the study areas, usually from commercial forest to conservation status. A key issue relates to maintenance and management data and information and probably over 70% of information collected is not accessible.

Automated summary

Long-term studies in forestry are crucial for maintaining and improving forest management. However, the success rate of such studies is low, with a limited number of them achieving the stated long-term objectives and a large portion of collected information being inaccessible.