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We need to treat our forests better than we have. The BOF can to
do just that. Silviculture practices have to be modified, inventories
have to be made, forest fragmentation needs to be minimized with
land purchases, and motorized recreation has to be curtailed. However,
priority should be given to forest preservation. Forest Preserves
should be established immediately before second and third cuttings
forfeit more biodiversity potential.
The benefits of Old Growth maintained areas are significant:
- Old Growth ecosystems have an immense potential for biodiversity
preservation. We simply cannot "manage" lands for complete natural
condition and processes; only nature, and time, can provide this
"management". Old Growth forest areas can provide biological sinks
in interior sections of our forests-areas where both plant and
animal habitats-communities-can thrive and adapt to an ever-changing
environment of a naturally dynamic forest.
- Old Growth areas can provide permanent and consistent water
quality for wildlife and humans alike. Entire watersheds could
be protected through Old Growth designation. The water quality
of these areas can only improve over time as the forest biology
matures and the forest floor stabilizes. Riparian and wetland
habitat inside the protected areas could support a biodiversity
now found in only a few very small patches of Pennsylvania. Water
flowing out of these areas will be of high quality providing a
reserve for future downstream users. As stated in the draft plan,
currently, there are 35 municipal water systems in Pennsylvania
that have watersheds in State Forest Lands.
- Old Growth forests can provide the backdrop for our state forest
recreational uses. Passive non-impact uses such as hiking, cross-country
skiing, and canoeing can coexist within Old Growth Forests. Major
trails, such as the Mid State Trail, and canoeing corridors-such
as the West Branch of the Susquehanna--could have old growth designated
lands along, and surrounding them. These natural corridors would
provide a high-quality wilderness experience. Tourism would benefit
from these areas. Pennsylvania could become a leader in providing
this type of recreational opportunity.
Link to the Introduction
to State Forest Management
Link to comment letter for DCNR
Link to a map of Pennsylvania State Forest
lands
Link to list
of public meetings
Link to talking points for public
meetings
Link
to the Pennsylvania DCNR State Forestry site
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