A Model for Optimization of Roe Deer Management in Central Europe

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Abstract
A computer model was devised to incorporate many different variables into management planning for populations of roe deer (C. capreolus). The model contains 4 sections: (1) evaluation of winter and summer food resources, with estimation of the nutritional value of foods and the relationship between snow depth and amount of winter forage; (2) simulation of dynamic population variables with factors affecting body and antler weights; (3) fiscal balance of the management system; and (4) decision-making section. The main units of the model are forest sites, grouped into 12 forest types. The 1st and 2nd sections estimate the trophic (winter) and social (summer) carrying capacity of a forest. The winter trophic carrying capacity is the density of roe deer that can exist in a given forest area without significant overbrowsing damage. The social capacity is the number of resident bucks and does the habitat can support during the growing season. The model contains 20 decision-making variables that can be manipulated easily by the manager. These variables estimate the fiscal balance of the total management system. Practical application of this model for 3 yr in a national forest showed that a nearly 6-fold increase in the population yield was possible.

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