Maps are planning’s most ubiquitous and useful tool. Maps put
place in the center of the planning conversation. It’s no
surprise that all of the place-based collaborative processes use
maps as their exclusive planning tool. No linear programming
optimizing models; no ecological forecasting models; in fact, no
complex models at all are used in collaborative, place-based
planning (in a future post I will discuss why complex models
create more trouble than they are worth). In the days before
GIS, maps and transparent overlays were used to avoid placing
clearcuts next to campgrounds. Conventional NFMA plans use maps
to zone land, showing where uses are permitted or prohibited.
The proposed K.I.S.S. planning rule eliminates this
discretionary zoning function from NFMA plans. Without zoning,
what information would K.I.S.S. maps illustrate? A map of the
3-year vegetation management and timber harvest program would be
useful. This map would show the metes and bounds of lands slated
for vegetation treatments. Using Go