This phrase refers to tools or methods used to estimate the number of trees that can be planted or exist within a single acre of land. These calculations often consider factors such as tree species, desired spacing, and intended management practices. For example, a calculation might determine that 680 seedlings of a particular pine species can be planted per acre with a spacing of 8 feet by 8 feet.
Determining the appropriate density of trees on a land area is essential for optimizing resource utilization, maximizing timber yields, and achieving specific ecological goals. Accurate estimations contribute to efficient reforestation efforts, improved forest health, and sustainable forest management practices. Historically, such estimations relied on manual surveys and calculations; however, modern tools and technologies have improved the accuracy and efficiency of these analyses.
The following sections will delve into the various methodologies employed for determining stocking density, the factors influencing optimal tree density, and the practical applications of such calculations in forestry and land management.
1. Spacing optimization
Spacing optimization, in the context of forestry and land management, is directly linked to estimations of tree density on a per-acre basis. The desired spacing between individual trees is a primary input variable in any calculation determining the number of trees suitable for a given area. For instance, a forester aiming to maximize timber production might choose a closer spacing to encourage vertical growth and minimize branching. Conversely, a wider spacing could be selected to promote crown development and fruit production in an orchard setting. The specific objectives of land use dictate the optimal spacing and, consequently, the calculated tree density per acre.
The cause-and-effect relationship between spacing and tree density is straightforward: a reduction in the distance between trees results in a higher number of trees per acre, while increasing the distance yields a lower density. Accurate estimation of tree density, informed by spacing optimization principles, is critical for several practical applications. For example, in reforestation projects, incorrect spacing can lead to overstocking, resulting in stunted growth and increased susceptibility to disease, or understocking, which can delay canopy closure and allow for excessive weed competition. Similarly, in urban forestry, optimized spacing ensures adequate sunlight penetration and prevents infrastructure damage from root systems.
In summary, spacing optimization is an integral component of determining the appropriate number of trees per acre. Correctly understanding and applying these principles enables efficient resource allocation, promotes healthy tree growth, and supports the achievement of specific management objectives, ranging from timber production to ecological restoration. Challenges in this field arise from variations in site conditions, species-specific requirements, and evolving management goals, necessitating continuous refinement of spacing guidelines and density calculations.
2. Species suitability
The determination of species suitability is intrinsically linked to calculations for tree density per acre. The inherent characteristics of a given species, such as its mature size, growth rate, and resource requirements, directly influence the optimal number of individuals that can be supported within a defined area. A species adapted to nutrient-poor soils might thrive at a higher density compared to a nutrient-demanding species on the same site. Consequently, any estimation of tree density lacking consideration of species-specific traits will likely result in unsustainable forest management practices or ecological damage. For example, planting a fast-growing hardwood species at a density appropriate for a slow-growing conifer can lead to overstocking, resource competition, and reduced growth rates for all individuals involved.
Species suitability, therefore, functions as a critical filter in the decision-making process that dictates tree density. This assessment involves evaluating the ecological requirements of potential species against the prevailing site conditions, including soil type, water availability, sunlight exposure, and climatic factors. Practical application of this understanding is evident in restoration projects, where native species are preferentially selected and planted at densities that mimic natural stand structures. Similarly, in commercial forestry, choosing species adapted to the local environment minimizes the need for intensive management inputs such as fertilization or irrigation, enhancing long-term economic viability. The implications of neglecting species suitability are far-reaching, potentially causing plantation failure, promoting invasive species, or diminishing biodiversity.
In summary, species suitability forms an indispensable component of the calculation process determining tree density per acre. By carefully matching species characteristics to site conditions, forest managers can optimize resource utilization, promote healthy forest ecosystems, and achieve sustainable management objectives. Failure to account for this crucial factor can result in ecological degradation, economic losses, and ultimately, the failure to meet the intended goals of reforestation or forest management activities. Ongoing research into species-site interactions continues to refine the methodologies used for determining appropriate tree densities, adapting to changing environmental conditions and management priorities.
3. Yield maximization
Yield maximization in forestry is directly influenced by the calculations determining the appropriate number of trees per acre. Optimizing timber production requires a careful balance between stand density and individual tree growth, making estimations of stocking crucial for achieving maximum economic return.
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Stand Density Management Diagrams
These diagrams graphically represent the relationship between stand density, tree size, and yield. Foresters use them to determine the optimal stocking level for a given species and site to maximize timber production. This involves selecting a target density informed by calculations of potential trees per acre based on site productivity and species-specific growth characteristics. For instance, a diagram might indicate that a higher density is beneficial in the early stages of stand development to promote self-pruning and reduce branch size, ultimately improving timber quality.
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Thinning Regimes
Thinning, the selective removal of trees within a stand, is often employed to improve the growth and quality of remaining trees. Calculations of trees per acre are essential for designing effective thinning regimes. For example, a forester might initially plant a high number of trees per acre to maximize early site occupancy and suppress weed competition, then conduct thinnings at specific intervals to reduce density and allocate resources to the most desirable trees. These thinnings are guided by density targets derived from yield maximization models, ensuring that the remaining trees have sufficient space and resources to achieve optimal growth and value.
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Species Selection and Site Matching
Different tree species exhibit varying growth rates and resource requirements, influencing the optimal stocking density for yield maximization. Calculating the number of trees per acre must consider the inherent characteristics of the chosen species and the specific site conditions. For example, a fast-growing species on a highly productive site may support a higher density than a slow-growing species on a nutrient-poor site. Accurate estimation of trees per acre, coupled with appropriate species selection, is critical for achieving maximum timber yield over the rotation length.
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Optimization Models
Complex optimization models are frequently used to determine the most profitable management strategies for timber production. These models integrate factors such as timber prices, harvesting costs, and discount rates to identify the optimal planting density, thinning schedule, and rotation length. The initial calculation of trees per acre serves as a key input into these models, influencing the predicted timber yield and economic return. For example, the model may suggest that a moderate planting density, combined with several thinnings, yields the highest net present value compared to other management scenarios.
In summary, calculations determining the appropriate number of trees per acre form the foundation for yield maximization in forestry. Through tools like stand density management diagrams, effective thinning regimes, informed species selection, and sophisticated optimization models, forest managers can make informed decisions about stocking density to achieve their timber production goals. The careful integration of these factors ensures sustainable and economically viable forest management practices.
4. Reforestation planning
Reforestation planning critically depends on accurate estimations derived from calculations of trees per acre. Effective reforestation necessitates determining the appropriate number of seedlings required to establish a new forest or replenish a harvested area. Insufficient planting density results in inadequate site utilization, increased competition from weeds, and delayed canopy closure. Conversely, excessive planting density leads to overstocking, suppressing individual tree growth and increasing vulnerability to disease and insect infestations. The relationship between desired outcomes and planting density highlights the significance of employing a calculator of trees per acre during the planning phase.
The determination of planting density is further complicated by factors such as site preparation methods, seedling quality, and species selection. For example, if intensive site preparation, such as herbicide application or mechanical clearing, is employed, a slightly lower planting density may be acceptable. Similarly, using high-quality seedlings with superior growth potential may justify a reduced planting density compared to using lower-quality stock. Species selection plays a vital role, as different species exhibit varying growth rates and tolerance to competition. A real-world example can be found in the reforestation efforts following wildfires in the western United States, where carefully planned planting densities, informed by site-specific tree per acre calculations, were crucial for successful forest regeneration.
In summary, reforestation planning inextricably relies on accurate estimations of trees per acre. The planning phase determines the trajectory of forest development, influencing long-term timber yields, biodiversity, and ecosystem services. While several factors affect the determination of optimal planting density, the calculation of trees per acre provides a quantitative basis for making informed decisions. Challenges related to climate change and invasive species further emphasize the need for adaptive reforestation strategies guided by robust density estimations. The correct determination of tree density per acre is thus a cornerstone of effective and sustainable reforestation.
5. Thinning schedules
Thinning schedules are intrinsically linked to calculations of trees per acre, representing a critical management intervention to optimize stand development and timber yield. The determination of initial planting density, coupled with projected growth rates, directly informs the frequency, intensity, and type of thinning operations implemented throughout the rotation. For example, a stand initially established with a high planting density, calculated based on anticipated mortality and desired early site capture, will necessitate a series of thinnings to reduce competition and allocate resources to the most desirable trees. A tree calculator per acre, in this context, serves as a dynamic tool, initially informing planting density and subsequently guiding thinning decisions based on periodic remeasurements of stand density and growth. The cause-and-effect relationship is evident: an inappropriate initial planting density, miscalculated trees per acre, can lead to either premature stagnation if overstocked or underutilization of site resources if understocked, necessitating adjustments to the thinning schedule.
Practical application of tree per acre calculations in thinning schedules can be observed in various silvicultural systems. In even-aged management, where trees are planted and harvested simultaneously, thinning operations are typically prescribed to maintain a specific residual density that optimizes diameter growth and timber quality. Periodic inventories provide data on current stand density, which is then compared to desired target densities derived from growth models and yield tables. These models, in turn, are based on extensive research into species-specific responses to varying levels of competition. For instance, a thinning operation might be prescribed to reduce the stand density from 800 trees per acre to 400 trees per acre, effectively doubling the growing space available to each remaining tree. In uneven-aged management, where trees of different ages and sizes coexist, thinning operations are more complex, involving the removal of trees from multiple size classes to promote regeneration and maintain structural diversity. The calculations for trees per acre in this context must consider the distribution of trees across different size classes, ensuring that the residual stand structure meets specific management objectives, such as wildlife habitat enhancement or watershed protection.
In conclusion, the use of a calculator to determine trees per acre is fundamental to developing effective thinning schedules. Accurate initial calculations combined with ongoing monitoring of stand density ensures the thinning schedules are appropriate for the specific site, species, and management objectives. Neglecting the quantitative relationship between stocking density and thinning intensity can lead to suboptimal timber production, reduced forest health, and a failure to achieve desired ecological outcomes. Continual refinement of tree per acre calculations and thinning prescriptions, informed by research and practical experience, is essential for sustainable forest management in the face of changing environmental conditions and economic pressures.
6. Forest health
The calculation of trees per acre significantly impacts forest health. Stand density, a direct result of these calculations, influences resource availability, competition, and susceptibility to disturbances. Overstocked stands, exceeding the carrying capacity of the land, experience increased competition for water, nutrients, and sunlight. This heightened competition weakens individual trees, making them more vulnerable to insect infestations, disease outbreaks, and the effects of drought. Conversely, understocked stands may be more susceptible to windthrow, and the increased sunlight penetration can promote the growth of invasive species, further compromising forest health. The number derived from a tree calculator per acre, therefore, represents a critical factor in preventative forest management, aiding in maintaining the vitality and resilience of forest ecosystems.
Practical application of this understanding is evident in forest management practices aimed at reducing the risk of bark beetle infestations. In regions prone to these outbreaks, foresters use tree density calculations to identify and thin overstocked stands. By reducing the number of trees per acre, the remaining trees have greater access to resources, increasing their vigor and resistance to beetle attacks. Similarly, in areas susceptible to root diseases, maintaining appropriate stand density, informed by tree per acre calculations, can limit the spread of pathogens by reducing root contact between trees. Furthermore, prescribed burning, a common forest management tool, is often more effective in stands with lower densities, reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfires that can devastate forest health. These examples illustrate the direct influence of tree density, derived from tree per acre calculations, on the implementation and success of forest health management strategies.
In conclusion, the connection between forest health and calculations of trees per acre is undeniable. Stand density acts as a crucial determinant of resource availability, competition, and vulnerability to disturbances. While tree calculator per acre serves as a valuable tool for informing forest management decisions, challenges remain in adapting density guidelines to changing climate conditions and evolving pest dynamics. The need for continued research and adaptive management strategies emphasizes the importance of integrating tree per acre calculations with comprehensive forest health monitoring programs. Ultimately, by carefully managing stand density through informed calculations, forest managers can promote healthy, resilient, and sustainable forest ecosystems.
7. Economic viability
Economic viability in forestry is inextricably linked to the calculations used to determine trees per acre. The number of trees established and maintained on a given land area directly impacts timber yields, management costs, and ultimately, the financial return on investment. Accurately determining the optimal tree density, informed by site-specific factors and species characteristics, is crucial for maximizing profitability. An understocked stand fails to fully utilize the site’s productive capacity, resulting in lower timber volumes at harvest. Conversely, an overstocked stand increases competition among trees, leading to reduced individual tree growth, increased susceptibility to disease, and higher management costs associated with thinning operations. A calculator designed to estimate trees per acre, therefore, functions as a core component of economic feasibility assessments in forestry, allowing for informed decisions regarding planting density and long-term management strategies. For instance, a timber company might use a tree calculator to evaluate the potential financial returns of different planting densities for a specific pine species, considering factors such as timber prices, management costs, and discount rates. The output of this analysis informs the decision on the planting density that maximizes net present value, ensuring economic viability of the timber investment.
Further analysis reveals that the economic implications of tree density extend beyond timber production. Forest management activities, such as thinning, fertilization, and pest control, are directly influenced by the initial planting density. A higher planting density often necessitates more frequent and intensive thinning operations, increasing management costs. Similarly, the choice of tree species, informed by site suitability and market demand, affects the optimal tree density. For example, a landowner might choose to plant a higher-value hardwood species at a lower density to promote the development of large-diameter trees, commanding premium prices in the timber market. The economic viability of this decision depends on accurate estimations of tree growth rates, timber prices, and the costs associated with managing the stand over its rotation length. A real-world example includes the sustainable forestry practices adopted by many private landowners, integrating tree density calculations with financial planning to optimize long-term economic returns while maintaining forest health and biodiversity. These practices often involve a balance between timber production and other ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration and water quality, further influencing the economic viability of forest management decisions.
In conclusion, the number of trees per acre and economic viability are deeply intertwined in forestry. Accurate estimations of tree density, guided by calculators and informed by site-specific factors, are essential for maximizing timber yields, minimizing management costs, and ensuring a positive return on investment. However, challenges remain in accurately predicting timber prices, accounting for the effects of climate change, and valuing non-timber forest products. The development of more sophisticated models, integrating economic and ecological factors, is needed to further enhance the economic viability of sustainable forest management practices. Ultimately, careful consideration of tree density, informed by sound calculations and economic analysis, is crucial for securing the long-term financial sustainability of forestry operations while promoting healthy and resilient forest ecosystems.
8. Ecological Impact
Ecological impact, in the context of forestry and land management, is significantly influenced by the density of trees, a factor directly addressed through calculations of trees per acre. The quantity and spatial arrangement of trees determine resource availability, habitat structure, and overall ecosystem function. Inaccurate estimations of trees per acre, therefore, can lead to detrimental ecological consequences.
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Biodiversity and Habitat Structure
The density of trees influences biodiversity by shaping habitat structure and resource availability. Overstocked stands may limit understory vegetation, reducing habitat diversity for wildlife species dependent on a variety of food sources and cover. Conversely, understocked stands may favor the growth of invasive species, displacing native plant communities. Estimations of trees per acre must consider the needs of diverse species, promoting a balanced ecosystem. For example, a managed forest aimed at supporting a specific bird species might require a lower density of trees to allow for ample understory growth, providing nesting sites and foraging opportunities.
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Carbon Sequestration and Climate Regulation
Forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The amount of carbon sequestered is directly related to the density and growth rate of trees. Accurately calculating trees per acre is essential for optimizing carbon sequestration potential. An overstocked stand, while potentially containing more trees, may exhibit reduced individual tree growth due to competition, diminishing its overall carbon sequestration capacity. Similarly, an understocked stand will sequester less carbon due to the lower number of trees present. Forest management strategies aimed at maximizing carbon sequestration must consider these factors, carefully balancing tree density to achieve optimal carbon uptake.
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Water Resources and Soil Health
Tree density affects water resources and soil health through its influence on water infiltration, evapotranspiration, and soil erosion. Overstocked stands can deplete soil moisture, reducing water availability for other plant species and potentially impacting streamflow. Understocked stands may be more susceptible to soil erosion due to reduced ground cover. Calculating trees per acre must consider the hydrological characteristics of the site, promoting sustainable water management and soil conservation. For example, a forested watershed managed for water quality might require a moderate density of trees to ensure adequate water infiltration and minimize soil erosion, balancing timber production with watershed protection.
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Nutrient Cycling and Decomposition
The number of trees per acre affects nutrient cycling and decomposition rates within the forest ecosystem. Denser stands generally have a higher litterfall rate, which can enhance soil fertility and nutrient availability. However, overstocked stands can also lead to nutrient imbalances and increased susceptibility to nutrient leaching. Accurately balancing tree density is therefore crucial for supporting sustainable nutrient cycling processes, ensuring long-term forest productivity and health. The specific needs and traits of the targeted forest species should be taken into consideration when attempting to maximize the tree per acre density within a sustainable ecological structure.
These facets demonstrate how the calculation of trees per acre directly impacts various ecological processes. Managing tree density requires a holistic approach, considering the interconnectedness of these factors to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of forest ecosystems. Decisions regarding tree density should be informed by scientific research and adaptive management principles, recognizing the dynamic nature of forest ecosystems and the need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation.
9. Land capability
Land capability, an assessment of the inherent suitability of a particular area for different land uses, is integrally connected to the appropriate determination of tree density through the utilization of a tree calculator per acre. The biophysical attributes of a site dictate the potential productivity and sustainability of forestry operations, making land capability a foundational consideration.
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Soil Properties and Tree Density
Soil texture, structure, nutrient content, and drainage directly influence tree growth and survival. A site with well-drained, fertile soil can support a higher density of trees compared to a site with poorly drained, nutrient-poor soil. A tree calculator per acre, when informed by soil data, allows for the estimation of a sustainable stocking level that aligns with the soil’s carrying capacity. For example, a sandy soil with low water retention may necessitate a lower tree density to minimize water stress during dry periods.
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Climate and Species Selection
Climate factors such as precipitation, temperature, and growing season length constrain the range of tree species that can thrive in a given area. Land capability assessment considers these climatic limitations to guide species selection. The chosen species, in turn, dictates the optimal tree density. A species adapted to drought conditions may be planted at a higher density in arid regions compared to a moisture-demanding species. Tree calculators, when coupled with species suitability models, assist in determining an appropriate stocking level based on climatic constraints.
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Topography and Site Accessibility
Topography influences soil erosion, water runoff, and accessibility for management operations. Steep slopes are more prone to erosion and may require a lower tree density to maintain soil stability. Similarly, areas with limited accessibility may necessitate a reduced stocking level to facilitate harvesting and other silvicultural activities. Land capability mapping incorporates topographic data to inform tree per acre calculations, ensuring sustainable forest management practices.
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Existing Vegetation and Competition
The presence of existing vegetation, including competing tree species, shrubs, and grasses, affects the establishment and growth of newly planted trees. Land capability assessments consider the competitive pressure from existing vegetation to determine the appropriate planting density. A site with dense herbaceous cover may require a lower tree density or more intensive site preparation to reduce competition. Tree per acre calculators, when integrated with vegetation surveys, allow for the estimation of a stocking level that promotes successful tree establishment and growth.
In summary, land capability acts as a crucial determinant in calculating the appropriate number of trees per acre. By integrating data on soil properties, climate, topography, and existing vegetation, land capability assessments provide a framework for determining sustainable stocking levels. A tree calculator per acre, informed by this framework, enables forest managers to make informed decisions that optimize timber production, protect ecological values, and ensure the long-term health and resilience of forest ecosystems. Neglecting land capability in tree density calculations can lead to unsustainable forestry practices, resulting in reduced productivity, increased environmental degradation, and diminished economic returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following addresses common inquiries regarding the use of a tree calculator per acre in forestry and land management.
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of a tree calculator per acre?
The primary purpose is to estimate the number of trees that can be planted or are present within a defined land area of one acre. This estimation considers factors such as tree species, desired spacing, and intended management practices.
Question 2: What factors should be considered when utilizing a tree calculator per acre?
Key factors include the specific tree species, its mature size, spacing requirements, site conditions (soil type, water availability, sunlight exposure), and management objectives (timber production, wildlife habitat, ecological restoration).
Question 3: How does spacing between trees influence the calculation of trees per acre?
Spacing is inversely proportional to the number of trees per acre. A smaller spacing yields a higher density, while a larger spacing results in a lower density.
Question 4: What are the potential consequences of inaccurate tree density calculations?
Inaccurate calculations can lead to overstocking (stunted growth, increased disease susceptibility) or understocking (delayed canopy closure, increased weed competition), impacting timber yields, forest health, and ecological values.
Question 5: How can a tree calculator per acre be used in reforestation planning?
It allows for estimating the number of seedlings required to establish a new forest or replenish a harvested area, optimizing resource allocation and promoting successful forest regeneration.
Question 6: Does the economic viability of a forestry operation depend on tree density calculations?
Yes, the appropriate determination of tree density directly impacts timber yields, management costs, and the financial return on investment, making it a crucial factor in economic assessments.
Accurate calculations are crucial for effective forest management. Neglecting the guidelines presented here can result in various environmental and economic problems.
The following section concludes the information in this article.
Tree Calculator Per Acre Tips
Accurate determination of tree density is crucial for sustainable forest management. The following tips offer guidance on utilizing calculations related to the subject.
Tip 1: Account for Species-Specific Characteristics: Different tree species exhibit varying growth rates, mature sizes, and resource requirements. Density calculations should incorporate these species-specific attributes to ensure optimal stand development. For instance, a slower-growing hardwood may require a lower initial planting density than a fast-growing softwood.
Tip 2: Consider Site-Specific Conditions: Soil type, water availability, sunlight exposure, and slope influence tree growth and survival. Adapt density calculations to account for these site-specific factors. A nutrient-poor site may necessitate a lower tree density to minimize competition for resources.
Tip 3: Utilize Stand Density Management Diagrams: These diagrams provide a graphical representation of the relationship between stand density, tree size, and yield. Employ these tools to determine the optimal stocking level for a given species and site, maximizing timber production and forest health.
Tip 4: Monitor Stand Development Regularly: Periodic inventories and growth measurements are essential for tracking stand development and adjusting management practices as needed. This allows for timely intervention if density exceeds or falls below desired levels.
Tip 5: Integrate Thinning Schedules: Thinning operations, the selective removal of trees, are crucial for optimizing stand development and promoting individual tree growth. Incorporate thinning schedules into long-term management plans, adjusting density as necessary to achieve specific objectives.
Tip 6: Consult with Forestry Professionals: Experienced foresters possess valuable knowledge and expertise in tree density management. Seek their guidance to ensure accurate calculations and effective implementation of management practices.
Tip 7: Adapt to Changing Climate Conditions: Climate change is altering temperature and precipitation patterns, impacting tree growth and survival. Adjust density calculations and management practices to account for these evolving conditions.
These tips emphasize the importance of considering various factors when calculating tree density. Implementing these recommendations contributes to sustainable forest management practices, optimizing timber production, protecting ecological values, and ensuring long-term forest health.
This concludes the guidance provided in this article, underscoring the significance of informed decision-making in forest management.
Conclusion
The exploration of a tree calculator per acre has demonstrated its central role in sustainable forestry practices. From reforestation planning to optimizing timber yields and maintaining forest health, accurate tree density estimations are paramount. The various methodologies, influential factors, and practical applications discussed underscore the importance of informed decision-making in forest management.
Continued adherence to scientifically sound calculations, coupled with adaptive management strategies, is essential for navigating the complexities of forest ecosystems. Recognizing the interconnectedness of ecological, economic, and social considerations will ensure the long-term viability and resilience of our forests for future generations. Therefore, the responsible application of these methods should be encouraged and supported through education, research, and policy.
