Managing the Extra-Hyrcanian Forests of Iran: (Part one: from 1949 to 1978)

    This article delves into the management process of the Extra-Hyrcanian Forests, situated outside the Hyrcanian eco-region, starting from the first forestry organization. The sources used to compile this information include reports, implemented forestry plans, identification and semi-detailed studies, field observations, and over 30 years of experience in the Extra-Hyrcanian Forests. In the article, the report of the management process during several significant time periods is examined. Firstly, from the initial organization to the establishment of the Forestry Company in 1949, where there was a lack of attention or little attention given. Secondly, from the establishment of the Forestry Company to the beginning of the decade 1960, when there was an apparent beginning of attention and creation of the first organizations. Thirdly, from 1960 until 1972, scientific management began by preparing forestry plans. Fourthly, from 1961 until 1978, saw forestry restoration and the development of green space. Fifthly, the period from 1973 to 1978 focused on the protection and reclamation of forestry plans. A summary of the multi-year activities of the Extra-Hyrcanian Forests reveals that despite an increase in government and organizational presence since the 1960s, there was no clear policy with a definite goal and perspective for those involved. Consequently, all types of activities were repeated trials and errors. In contrast, during the same period, the Hyrkan forests were managed with a single and specific policy, even a single service description and manual (with a few case changes). Unfortunately, in the Extra-Hyrcanian Forests, plans and programs with a short life were implemented in the form of trial and error without defining and establishing a particular policy for forest management. Of course, it must be acknowledged that this management history was inevitable in dry and semi-arid forests, which, like the Hyrcanian humid forests, did not have the support of solid data, i.e., several-year history of European temperate humid forest management.