"The objective of our study was to determine whether the HIS (Habitat Suitability Index) model for the fisher accurately represents habitat suitability for the species." P, 291

Discussion
"Fishers utilized the higher HIS value habitats with greater frequency than expected based upon availability. Habitat preference was found to increase with increasing HIS value. Even though the model was not invalidated its performance could be improved. Based upon fisher habitat preference, the model placed unjustifiably high HIS values on pine plantations." "Fishes are known to prefer forests with continuous canopy closure, consequently, we would not recommend removing this variable from the model. Due to the potential for regional variability we would also not recommend removing the tree canopy diversity variable. " P.295

Management Implications:
"Habitat destruction and trapping pressure led to the demise of the fisher in Michigan in the early 1900’s. From 1961 to 1963, the U.S. Forest Service released 61 fishers on the Ottawa National Forest. The fisher release program was a success and the fisher is currently is re-expanding its range. In spite of the apparent success, Powell warned that population decline could reoccur. The future of the fisher in Michigan is dependant upon proper management to maintain suitable habitat and to ensure against over-harvest.