Forest management in proposed sites of Community importance. The «Poggi di Prata» site (GR, Tuscany, IT)

Abstract

The paper discusses forest management guidelines for a proposed site of Community importance, recognized by Toscan regional laws as a site of Regional importance. The connections between forest management and biological diversity conservation, resulting from the fulfilment of the EU «Habitat» directive, are examined. The paper analyses the main features of forest cover in the site, and describes the current forest management plan for the public property. Forest management guidelines are proposed including also economic aspects. Site conservation requires different actions, including preservation, coppice convertion to high forest, transitory stands management, open areas management and monitoring.