Using GIS to Support Multi-Objective Decision Making in Forest Management

Published Date

Volume 6 of the series Managing Forest Ecosystems pp 99-118

Title 

Using GIS to Support Multi-Objective Decision Making in Forest Management

An experience from Ghana, West Africa

• Author 

• Peter A. Kwaku Kyem

Abstract

This chapter is about a GIS-based multiple objective evaluation method that was implemented in a community in Southern Ghana to foster collaboration between local groups competing for forest resources. The study adopts decision support procedures available in Idrisi for Windows GIS to settle a dispute over allocation of forest resources. The chapter begins with a brief discussion of decision support techniques available in GIS. Thereafter, a case study illustrating the application of GIS in a multiple objective evaluation involving conflicting objectives is described. The chapter concludes with a review of contributions that GIS made to the dispute settlement process.

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