Due to the increased risk of forest damages associated with climate change, forest management needs to be adapted. In conifer dominated forests, one adaptation
strategy is to diversify the tree species composition through either natural regeneration or planting of broadleaved trees. This study examines place dynamics in combination with a behavioral change process at the individual level to shed light on forest management transitions. A survey among private forest owners in Sweden (N = 1793) was conducted to examine the intention to change tree species composition (i.e., a
goal intention) through different means: 1) increase of naturally generated broadleaves, 2) increase of mixed forests, and 3) adoption of improved silver birch (i.e.,
behavioral intentions). Results revealed that physical, social, and relational dimensions of place are separately and interactively associated with change intentions, e.g.,
owners in the south region, with a greater information flow, and a higher trust in forest actors, displayed a stronger intention to adopt improved birch, and trust played a greater role among non-certified compared to certified owners. At the individual level, a higher perceived risk of forest damages, supporting norms, and perceptions of feasibility were associated with stronger change intentions. Moreover, a stronger intention to change tree species composition was, together with e.g., more positive emotions elicited by improved birch, related to a stronger intention to adopt the species. The study confirms the validity of this interdisciplinary approach to understand how change in management may diffuse among owners in different geographies.
