Seven Credible Indicators of Forest Degradation in the Boreal Forest of Canada

Proposed frameworks for addressing boreal forest degradation have not yet prioritized indicators for implementation, despite this being essential to cost-effective and timely application. We created a framework grounded in the literature, subjected the indicators within that framework to semi-quantitative ranking using criteria that spoke directly to applicability and relevance, and used an expert review to produce a final suite of recommended indicators. We then turned our focus to implementation, providing a case study of prioritization for application in Ontario, Canada. Advancing from forest degradation frameworks to quantifiable applications will be bolstered by collaboration across researchers and invested parties working in this field. We end by highlighting the importance of building partnerships and utilizing existing data and products to address this phenomenon in the boreal forest of Canada and elsewhere.