Perceptions et representations geographiques, vers un amenagement des forets multifonctionnelles. Etude de cas quebecois: La Foret Montmorency (French text)

This paper examines the management of the forest as a "natural space". Currently, forest use for tourism purposes is increasing rapidly. This use necessitates good management for an adequate balance between the different functions and actors of the forest. Usually, geographical perceptions and representations are employed in urban management. However, is it possible to use them in forest management? This study tries to answer that question, using perceptions and representations as tools for a better understanding of the management of the Montmorency Forest, at both conceptual and practical levels.; The Forest Montmorency, located north of Quebec City, is a natural forest space characterised by a plurality of functions, actors and stakeholders. A specific methodology, centered on a qualitative analysis survey, permits us to have insight into the perceptions and representations of a plurality of Forest Montmorency actors. The objective is to know how abstract factors (perceptions and representations) influence the actual functioning and expectations of the uses of this forest. The results of this study show that the geographical tools of perceptions and representations may be used to better manage and harmonise a plurality of different kinds of actors working in a defined space - in this case the forest landscape.