Tool Details
![](fileadmin/user_upload/sfm-toolbox/img/decision framework.jpg)
A decision framework for identifying models to estimate forest ecosystem services gains from restoration
Author Zachary L. Christin, Kenneth J. Bagstad & Michael A. Verdone
Year of publication 2016
Restoring degraded forests and agricultural lands has become a global conservation priority. A growing number of tools can quantify ecosystem service trade offs associated with forest restoration. This evolving “tools landscape” presents a dilemma: more tools are available, but selecting appropriate tools has become more challenging. We present a Restoration Ecosystem Service Tool Selector (RESTS) framework that describes key characteristics of 13 ecosystem service assessment tools. Analysts enter information about their decision context, services to be analyzed, and desired outputs. Tools are filtered and presented based on five evaluative criteria: scalability, cost, time requirements, handling of uncertainty, and applicability to benefit-cost analysis. RESTS uses a spreadsheet interface but a web-based interface is planned. Given the rapid evolution of ecosystem services science, RESTS provides an adaptable framework to guide forest restoration decision makers toward tools that can help quantify ecosystem services in support of restoration.
Type of Tool
Guidelines manual kits for trainers
Guidelines manual kits for trainers
Scale of Application
Forest Management Unit, National
Forest Management Unit, National
Region
Global
Global
Biome
All
All
Forest Type
Degraded forest
Degraded forest
Primary Designated Function
All
All
Management Responsibility
Government/State
Government/State