Forest Management Cooperatives and Their Development Under Uncertain Conditions: A Comprehensive Analysis Using an Actor-Centered Institutionalism Approach

Abstract The change in forest ownership structures, the resulting fragmentation of properties and restitution processes have led to emergence organizations Europe that are able deal with these challenges. Changes timber selling process due decisions German Federal Competition Authority first uncertain conditions for management cooperatives (FMCs) their members federal state Baden-Wuerttemberg. In course this change, some FMCs questioned status quo while others evolved under conditions. This paper aims provide an overview factors determining further development following categories actor-centered institutionalism (ACI). To be conduct a comprehensive political analysis changes taking place process, ACI approach is used conjunction path dependency as theoretical framework paper. Methodologically, it based on qualitative field protocols from four regional conferences Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany, involving total 140 participants 2017. results highlight individual actors, economic social capabilities FMCs, existing constellations interactions determine developments uncertainty. Legal certainty cases withdrawal positively dealing situations. Foresters direction essentially development. Furthermore, cooperation municipal foresters has positive impact will help uncertainty future. A clear interest long-standing relationships also