Science in Practice Portal

Current BLM directives (1)(2) require the use of buffer strips on all streams having significant fishery values. This means that the decision maker must analyze and weigh the fishery and timber values on virtually every timber sale that borders on live streams. Many times , the information regarding the value of a specific stretch of stream for the production of fish is nonexistent or sketchy at best. The physical and biological responses of Douglas fir stands to various management practices are usually familiar to most timber managers, but few of these managers are equipped, either by experience or training, to evaluate fisheries. This makes it essential that formal decision-making processes be used in managing wildlands.