Miscellaneous

Forest Ecosystem Health

This report documents an ecological assessment of forest ecosystem health in the Southwest (Arizona and New Mexico). The assessment focuses at the regional level and mostly pertains to lands administered by the National Forest System in the Southwestern Region. Information is presented for use by forest and district resource managers as well as collaborative partners in the stewardship of these lands and resources. The report establishes a scientific basis for conducting forest health projects, provides a context for planning ecosystem restoration, and contributes to the understanding of the physical, biological, and human dimensions of these forests. Chapters describe Southwestern forest ecosystems of the past, changes since the Colonial Period, and consequences to biodiversity, resilience, biotic integrity, and human use. Opportunities, tools, and research needs for improving ecosystem sustainability are also identified.

• An Assessment of Forest Ecosystem Health in the Southwest