What is the initial phase of the Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) model?

The initial phase of the Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) model involves setting objectives. This step is crucial because it establishes the goals of the vegetation management program. By clearly defining what the management efforts aim to achieve—whether it’s to improve biodiversity, enhance native plant species, reduce invasive species, or improve the health of the ecosystem—stakeholders can create a focused strategy that guides all subsequent actions.

Setting objectives also helps in determining the appropriate methods and strategies for implementation, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and that all team members have a clear understanding of the desired outcomes. This foundational phase is essential for the effectiveness of the entire IVM approach, as it informs the selection of target species, the control strategies to be implemented, and the criteria for evaluating outcomes later in the process.