A Study on Setting Weights Between Landscape Indicators and Elements for Forest Landscape Evaluation†

This study aims to establish sustainable and practically applicable landscape value evaluation standards through landscape index and element analysis to construct a forest landscape map. The standards are essential to ensure the appropriateness of the evaluation criteria by establishing a logical basis for forest landscape selection indicators and setting weights between indicators and elements. To this end, the study attempted to develop scientific and objective forest landscape evaluation indicators by applying qualitative and quantitative research methods, such as interviews and AHP surveys with experts. The spatial analysis map was created using GIS based on the pilot site to verify the selected indicators. The grade map of forest landscape resources was prepared to review the adequacy of the indicators. As a result of this study, the resource value of forest landscapes was classified into three categories: absolute values, which are physical resources; relative values, which are visual resources; and humanistic values, which are non-physical resources. The selected nine indicators for physical values are as follows: slope, crown density, tree age, ecology and nature map, forest function classification map, forest genetic resource protection forest, ecological landscape conservation area, Baekdudaegan protection area, and provincial/county/national parks. For visual value, Relative value based on three-dimensional weight analysis was applied, and five factors were chosen for humanistic value: 100 famous mountains, premium forests, landscape bases, landscape axes, and landscape districts. The forest landscape evaluation grades were divided into three, and a management grade chart was presented. Unlike previous studies, this study set three values and presented a method for creating grading drawings based on the results of a comprehensive analysis. It also presented a research method to increase usability.