Forest multifunctionality is not resilient to intensive forestry

Abstract There is ample evidence that intensive management of ecosystems causes declines in biodiversity as well multiple ecosystem services, i.e., multifunctionality. However, less known about the permanence and reversibility these responses. To gain insight into whether multifunctionality can be sustained under management, we developed a framework building on concept resilience: system’s ability to avoid displacement return or transform desired state. We applied it test forest persist during recover from for timber production boreal forest. Using growth simulations multiobjective optimization, created alternative future paths where was managed maximal production, multifunctionality, first then show substantially diminished forestry recovers slower, longer has been continued. Intensive thus not only reduces but hinders its recovery should goals change, weakens resilience. The results suggest need adjust according long-term sustainability already today.