Nevertheless, it is clear that the adaptations are linked, and that radial growth is the integrative response of this mutual inter-relationship. Research Research programs under way in various parts of the world (e.g. United States and Australia) are aimed at providing an alternate approach in forest management where conservation objectives are a high priority. Methods of ecological thinning being developed on silvicultural techniques for local forest types. Ecological thinning is being developed using two principles: 1. appropriate stem reduction to reduce competition and 2. retention of trees (selection) that are more suitable for wildlife (i.e. not timber production). An example of ecological thinning research is the project in Victoria's Box-Ironbark forests, investigating various thinning and timber removal methods under an adaptive management or AEM framework. The primary objective is to generate (over time) a number of forest habitat values (i.e. tree hollows) that are crucial for wildlife conservation. See also Habitat conservation References External links Parks Victoria Box-Ironbark Parks & Reserves – follow link to thinning trial FAQ Ecological Thinning Conference Poster – Poster presented to ESA2004 in Adelaide, Australia Review of Thinning Prescriptions – Review of thinning in park management in Australia Cedar River Watershed Habitat Conservation Plan – Catchment project in Seattle, US Forest management Forest ecology Sustainable forest management Environmental terminology Habitat Sustainable agriculture