Integrating naturalised tree species in the social ecological forest system on sandy soils

In this project we investigate the possibilities to promote the integration of naturalised tree species such as black cherry (Prunus serotina) and red oak (Quercus rubra) in the social ecological system forest on Flemish and Dutch sandy soils. We aim at deepening the understanding how human behaviour in the social ecologic system forest can be changed. At the same time we want to stimulate ecological and sylvicultural research into the integration of naturalised tree species.

We question how the hegemonic discourse,  eradicating exotic tree species which can’t be eliminated any more, can be changed to create the possibility for foresters to integrate these tree species in their regular forest management. By means of transdisciplinair research we locate and influence the tipping points in the handling of naturalised tree species in the social ecological system forest in such a way as to make it possible for forest managers to integrate these tree species. As results of this project we expect: 

1. More space for forest managers to view naturalised tree species as volwaardige target species  in the forest management.  

2. Forest management strategies to integrate naturalised tree species in the forest management.

3. Knowledge how processes of change in the social ecological system forest develop.

4. Insight in the role of hegemony and power in the processes of consolidation and change in the social ecological system forest.