Forest Service Land Management Planners' Introduction to Linear Programming

摘要

The report provides a detailed explanation of basic concepts of linear programming (LP) for forest planners and others who must use the technique to develop national forest land management plans. The role of LP in national forest planning analysis is presented. Basic algebraic concepts needed to understand LP are reviewed. The various components of an LP model are described and the advantages and limitations of the technique are discussed. Examples are presented in order to illustrate the technique, how it is used to formulate forest planning models, and how it is used in the Forest Service land management planning process. Procedures for solving LP models and the technique known as goal programming are also discussed. No prior background in LP is assumed on the part of the reader.