Forestry

Forestry is defined as the science of developing, caring for, or cultivating forests. It's usually regarded only as an attempt to maximize the production of wood based products, however, forestry has a much broader impact. Forest products developed from wood such as paper and lumber are obvious to everyone. Less obvious forest products are syrup, rubber and organic oils used to produce a host of other products we seldom relate to the forest. While forests provide the raw materials for many products we use daily, there are other less obvious and perhaps more important "products" influenced by the practice of forestry. Forests act as nature's filter to clean our air and water. Trees help purify the air we breath by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. One acre of forest absorbs six tons of carbon dioxide and puts out four tons of oxygen! The leaves that collect on the forest floor filter sediment and chemicals from rainwater and help prevent soil erosion. Forests provide the habitat to sustain wildlife and provide recreation to many that enjoy hunting, camping, fishing and hiking. So remember, there is a lot more to forestry than just trees.