Strategy for Improving Forestland Classification System in Korea

The objective of this study was to analyze 'Forestland Classification System' in Korea and to develop a strategy for its improvement. A survey was conducted in this study based on the Delphi technique, one of the interactive survey method relying on a panel of experts. The result indicated that the existing 'Forestland Classification System' was initiated for reasonable management of forestland, but now it turned into one of the most strict management restrictions. To improve forestland management in Korea, it was suggested to adopt 'Forest Function System' in this study. Moreover, to avoid indiscreet landuse conversion that might be occurred by substituting the 'Forest Function System' for the 'Forestland Classification System', it was suggested to adopt 'Forestland Conversion Propriety Assessment System'. In fact, landuse conversion has been regulated by the 'Environmental Impact Assessment System', but this system appeared inadequate to be applied to the forested area. Illegal acts for having permission of landuse conversion for reserved forests was another big issue in the forestland management. For example, alteration of the reserved status of forests or partition into patches smaller than the size limit has been attempted. Thus in this study, it was strongly recommended to take sanction against such illegal acts. In order to enhance the efficiency of forestland management, it was also suggested to integrate administrative agencies related to the landuse conversion or to take over the charge to local governments.

산지이용구분제도의 개선방안 연구

본 연구는 전문가 집단의 델파이조사 결과를 바탕으로 산지이용구분제도와 관련된 문제점을 종합적으로 분석하여 산지이용구분제도의 개선방안을 모색하고자 수행하였다. 분석결과, 산지이용구분제도가 도입당시의 취지와는 달리 대표적인 규제수단으로 변질됨에 따라 산지이용구분제도의 폐지나 대체방안이 필요하며, 대체방안으로 산림기능구분제도 도입이 필요한 것으로 나타났다. 산지이용구분제도가 산림기능구분제도로 대체되면 산지의 난(亂)개발이 우려되나 현행 환경영향평가제도의 난개발 방지효과가 미흡한 것으로 나타남에 따라 산지전용타당성평가제도의 도입이 필요한 것으로 나타났다. 보전산지의 등록전환과 토지거래 목적의 소규모 필지분할은 산지이용구분제도와 관련된 편법 악용사례로써 엄격히 제한할 필요성이 있으며, 분산된 산지개발 및 허가업무를 산림부서로 일원화하고 장기적으로는 산지전용허가권한을 지자체에 위임하는 것이 필요한 것으로 나타났다.