Towards the upscaling of local surface flux models.

Estimation of regional latent and sensible heat fluxes requires the upscaling of local models. One approach is to develop soil-vegetation-atmosphere transfer (SVAT) schemes at different scales (field, catchment and regional scale; e.g. Famiglietti and Wood (1994)). SVAT schemes at larger scales try to aggregate latent and sensible heat fluxes based on knowledge about the spatial distribution (GIS based) or the statistical-dynamic description of atmospheric forcing and internal state variables. Before one can approach this important problem of upscaling, it is necessary to study the impact of the parameters of the field scale SVAT model on the prediction of local fluxes. In this paper, we show results of a Monte Carlo sensitivity analysis performed on a local SVAT model, with data retrieved during the Autumn of 1995 in an experimental catchment in Belgium. During this field campaign, several parameters of the energy and water balance were measured by means of a Bowen ratio system, while soil moisture data were retrieved on a regular basis using an automatic TDR system. The results of the performed sensitivity analysis are presented and evaluated; conclusions are drawn with respect to the upscaling of local SVAT models to the larger scale

Differences between urban and rural population with respect to demand on forestry aspects, in a case study of the Turkish province of Bal kesir Diferenças entre a população urbana e rural em matéria das suas exigências de silvicultura, estudo de caso da província turca de Bal kesir

Inhabitants of urban and rural areas are important participants in the process of developing and implementing forest policy. Thus, it is essential to determine their demands and attitudes towards forestry issues. In this context, the demands and evaluation of forest functions are investigated in a case study of the Turkish province of Bal kesir. The findings of the case study show that differences in terms of demands among inhabitants of rural and urban areas are related to forest fires fighting, crimes fighting, forestry-tourism integration, forestation and regeneration activities, and the enlargement of forest areas. The main differences among their assessments of forest functions are related to fire wood production, and the provision of flood and erosion control, nature protection, and recreational opportunities. The findings are important for conflict management and for local decision making. By using the findings of similar studies, the provincial organizations should harmonize their priorities with the expectations of relevant interest groups.<br>A política de silvicultura da população urbana e rural é uma participante fundamental no processo de formação e execução das florestas. Portanto, é importante determinar as exigências e as aproximações em matéria da silvicultura. A determinação das exigências da população urbana e rural no âmbito desse processo e a interpretação destinada aos assuntos das funções da floresta foram pesquisadas tendo como base a província turca de Bal kesir. As constatações resultantes do estudo na região demonstraram que as diferenças entre as exigências da população urbana e rural em matéria da silvicultura são a luta contra os incêndios florestais, a luta contra os delitos florestais, a integração de silvicultura-turismo, as atividades de reflorestamento e rejuvenescimento da floresta e a ampliação dos campos florestais. Por outro lado, as diferenças fundamentais entre as constatações feitas em matéria das funções da floresta são a produção de lenha, a prevenção de erosão e inundação, a protecção natural, o projeto de recreação. Os resultados obtidos são importantes para a gestão de estudo e para a tomada de decisões no âmbito local. As instituições locais devem adaptar as suas prioridades e as exigências dos grupos interessados tirando proveito das constatações obtidas em estudos semelhantes