Development of a GIS-Based Methodological Framework for Regional Forest Planning: A Case Study in the Bosco Della Ficuzza Nature Reserve (Sicily, Italy)

Santo Orlando, Pietro Catania, Massimo Vincenzo Ferro, Carlo Greco (), Giuseppe Modica, Michele Massimo Mammano and Mariangela Vallone
Additional contact information
Santo Orlando: Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Building 4, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Pietro Catania: Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Building 4, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Massimo Vincenzo Ferro: Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Building 4, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Carlo Greco: Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Building 4, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Giuseppe Modica: Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale G. Palatucci 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
Michele Massimo Mammano: CREA—Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification, Via Titina de Filippo 21, 90135 Palermo, Italy
Mariangela Vallone: Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Building 4, 90128 Palermo, Italy

Land, 2025, vol. 14, issue 9, 1-16

Abstract: Effective forest planning in Mediterranean environments requires tools capable of managing ecological complexity, socio-economic pressures, and fragmented governance. This study develops and applies a GIS- and GNSS-based methodological framework for regional forest planning, tested in the “ Bosco della Ficuzza, Rocca Busambra, Bosco del Cappelliere, Gorgo del Drago ” Regional Nature Reserve (western Sicily, Italy). The main objective is to create a multi-layered Territorial Information System (TIS) that integrates high-resolution cartographic data, a Digital Terrain Model (DTM), and GNSS-based field surveys to support adaptive, participatory, and replicable forest management. The methodology combines the following: (i) DTM generation using Kriging interpolation to model slope and aspect with ±1.2 m accuracy; (ii) road infrastructure mapping and classification, adapted from national and regional forestry survey protocols; (iii) spatial analysis of fire-risk zones and accessibility, based on slope, exposure, and road pavement conditions; (iv) the integration of demographic and land use data to assess human–forest interactions. The resulting TIS enables complex spatial queries, infrastructure prioritization, and dynamic scenario modeling. Results demonstrate that the framework overcomes the limitations of many existing GIS-based systems—fragmentation, static orientation, and limited interoperability—by ensuring continuous data integration and adaptability to evolving ecological and governance conditions. Applied to an 8500 ha Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot, the model enhances road maintenance planning, fire-risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement, offering a scalable methodology for other protected forest areas. This research contributes an innovative approach to Mediterranean forest governance, bridging ecological monitoring with socio-economic dynamics. The framework aligns with the EU INSPIRE Directive and highlights how low-cost, interoperable geospatial tools can support climate-resilient forest management strategies across fragmented Mediterranean landscapes.

Keywords: GIS; GNSS; territorial information system (TIS); digital terrain model; forest planning; Mediterranean ecosystems (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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