Forest certification systems based on agreements in the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), Agenda 21, all include criteria, indicators, or principles that address biodiversity as a critical component to sustainable development. Several certification systems were reviewed for biodiversity and wildlife considerations. We identified two approaches to forest certification—one based on analyzing an organization’s current management processes and the other based on analyzing actual measurements of forest components against desired standards or outcomes. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001, the Canadian Standard Z808 and the US industry-based Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) are based on process. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) system in North America and Europe is more a measure against desired outcomes and allows for regional differences in the metrics. There was no documentation as to why certain metrics were chosen for either approach. Auditors for the systems have indicated that professional judgment often is the basis in determining if a criterion or indicator is met. The systems we reviewed all seem to be searching for improved measures.

We reviewed more than 150 publications to assess the scientific validity of wildlife and biodiversity metrics. A common theme was concern with the criterion of selecting appropriate indicators, as opposed to recommending specific indicators. The most noted criterion was that a well-defined and precise goal be formulated. An economically feasible indicator should then be selected that provides data and information to meet the desired goal. Another common theme was the need for research to validate indicators. Existing research on specific indicators was narrowly focused and mostly correlational. There was scant scientific evidence for definition of meaningful and measurable metrics of biodiversity.

An approach to developing indicators that work at various scales of ownership is described. The process involves identification of critical biodiversity issues relevant to the property to be managed. The landowner, with input from independent credible sources, identifies and prioritizes issues at the property and larger scales. This group develops a plan to address high priority issues with an overall goal of continued future maintenance or improvement of biodiversity. If the landowner desires certification, requirements of the specific certification program should be considered. For each biodiversity issue, the plan describes goals, specific objectives, management actions to achieve objectives, and metrics to assess progress towards achievement of objectives. Progress toward achievement of objectives should be assessed periodically at the property and larger scales. The plan should be revised as appropriate with each periodic review to consider new knowledge or policies.