Choice Structuring Properties of Natural Resource Theft: An Examination of Redwood Burl Poaching

Redwood burl poaching in Redwood National and State Parks is influenced by specific choice structuring properties that guide offenders' decision-making. Offenders preferentially target burls located low to the ground, near roads, illicit markets, and at higher elevations relative to road access. These factors create a micro-level pattern of criminal behavior that increases vulnerability of trees to insects, disease, and death. The study employs choice structuring analysis to dissect these patterns, offering insights that could inform targeted prevention strategies to mitigate this growing threat to one of Earth's longest-living tree species.

Marteache, N., & Pires, S. F. (2019). Choice Structuring Properties of Natural Resource Theft: An Examination of Redwood Burl Poaching. Deviant Behavior, 41(3), 311–328. https://doi.org/10.1080/01639625.2019.1565518