A mathematical programming model for maintaining structural diversity in uneven-aged forest stands with implications to other formulations

A mathematical programming model is presented which yields an optimal diameter distribution that is at least as diverse as some antecedent or target distribution. At the heart of this model is a set of constraints that ensures this outcome as long as a feasible solution to the model is found. The theory of intrinsic diversity ordering, which forms the basis for the constraint set derivation, is also discussed. The set of diversity-maintaining constraints presented are completely general and may be added to other mathematical programming formulations where quantities other than horizontal structural diversity are of interest. Two examples are given which illustrate the use of the model.