Opportunities for coordinated road management on public lands for purposes of ecosystem management: the case of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem

Abstract

This study examines opportunities for coordinated road management for purposes of ecosystem management. The coordination efforts in Greater Yellowstone provide a case study illustrating these opportunities.

The study first reviews current literature about ecosystems, ecosystem management goals, benefits and the application of the concept to Greater Yellowstone. Issues of forest road management are also examined.

The study then turns to a critique of current road management efforts in six National Forests of northwest Wyoming, southwest Montana and eastern Idaho; which are considered part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Comparisons of road management planning and policy will be made primarily through examination of forest plans and engineering policies, and through personal communication with forest highway engineers and transportation planners. Recommendations for improving coordination of forest road management follow the critique.