What is Forest Stewardship?
Many landowners want to do right by their forest resources but are unsure of the best approach to take in managing their own property. Luckily there's help! If you find yourself wanting your forest to be more than just a timber crop then the Forest Stewardship plan may be just perfect for you. The Forest Stewardship Program is tailored to people who see the forest as tracts of natural beauty, wildlife habitat, recreation, productive timber and care enough to protect clean water through appropriate soil conservation practices.It all starts with a plan tailored to your wants and desires for the property.
The Forest Stewardship Program
The North Carolina Forest Stewardship Program is a cooperative effort to help owners realize the objective of managing their forests for the benefits they desire. The program is voluntary, and participants receive recognition for achievements in promoting total forest resource management. Landowners receive technical assistance in developing a stewardship management plan. The forest stewardship plan is based on the landowner's objectives, and activities are scheduled to enhance the forest for wildlife, soil and water quality, timber production, recreational opportunities, and natural beauty.
The forest stewardship plan is action oriented and follows a time schedule that is compatible with the owner's resources and ability to conduct the work. Recommendations are made by agency and resource professionals, and the landowner then decides which activities to pursue. The recommendations focus on practical modifications of existing conditions rather than costly investment.
Stewardship practices do not need to be expensive to be beneficial. In fact, many landowners already practice good stewardship in many of their management activities.
The Importance of North Carolina Forests
North Carolina is blessed with abundant forestland that makes valuable contributions to the quality of life and the state's economy. Forestland is home to wildlife and it is a major source of the state's clean drinking water. It provides a place for recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. North Carolina's forests are also widely recognized for their scenic value, which strengthens the travel and tourism industries. Forests add to the beauty and quality of life that North Carolinians have come to expect.
North Carolina's forest resources play a significant part in the state's economy through the furniture and forest products industries. One out of every six manufacturing workers depends on the forests for a living, and North Carolina ships over $17 billion worth of manufactured forest products annually. Recreation, travel, and tourism contribute an additional $10.1 billion to the states economy each year. Improving the health of North Carolina's forests and keeping them productive is vital for present and future generations.
Through the North Carolina Forest Stewardship Program, public agencies work together to assist landowners who want to improve their forests. By providing educational, technical, and financial assistance, resource professionals help landowners realize the benefits of being good forest stewards.
What Is Stewardship?
Forest stewardship is the wise use and conservation of all forest resources including wildlife, timber, soil, water, recreational opportunities, and natural beauty. It is a commitment to the land for today and tomorrow. Stewards are proud of their forestland and apply the principles of conservation in managing all of the forest's resources.