What is Prescribed Fire? Prescribed fire, also known as controlled burning or planned fire, is a deliberate and carefully planned fire set under specific environmental conditions to achieve specific land management objectives. This practice is used in various ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, to mimic the natural role of fire in maintaining ecosystem health … Read more
What is an Old-Growth Forest? An old-growth forest, also known as a primary or ancient forest, is a forest that has reached a mature age and has not been significantly disturbed by human activities or natural disasters. These forests are characterized by their complex ecosystems, diverse species composition, and unique ecological processes that have developed … Read more
I. What is Landscape Conservation? Landscape conservation is a holistic approach to managing and protecting natural landscapes and the biodiversity they support. It involves the preservation and restoration of ecosystems, habitats, and species to maintain their ecological functions and values. Landscape conservation aims to balance the needs of human development with the conservation of natural … Read more
What is Selective Cutting? Selective cutting is a forestry practice where only a portion of trees in a forest are harvested, leaving the majority of the trees intact. This method is often used as an alternative to clear cutting, which involves cutting down all trees in a given area. Selective cutting aims to maintain the … Read more
What is Climate-Smart Forestry? Climate-Smart Forestry is a holistic approach to managing forests that takes into account the impacts of climate change. It involves implementing practices that enhance the resilience of forests to changing environmental conditions while also mitigating the effects of climate change. Climate-Smart Forestry aims to balance the ecological, economic, and social aspects … Read more
What is a wildfire? A wildfire is an uncontrolled fire that spreads rapidly through vegetation, forests, or grasslands. These fires can be ignited by natural causes such as lightning strikes or human activities like campfires, discarded cigarettes, or arson. Wildfires can cause extensive damage to ecosystems, property, and human lives if not managed effectively. How … Read more
What is a Conservation Easement? A conservation easement is a legal agreement between a landowner and a land trust or government agency that permanently restricts the development of a property to protect its natural, scenic, or agricultural values. The landowner retains ownership of the property but agrees to limit certain activities on the land to … Read more
What are Silvicultural Systems? Silvicultural systems refer to the various methods and techniques used in managing forest ecosystems to achieve specific objectives. These systems involve the manipulation of forest stands to optimize timber production, biodiversity conservation, and other ecosystem services. Silvicultural systems aim to mimic natural processes while also meeting human needs and objectives. What … Read more
What is Coppicing? Coppicing is a traditional method of woodland management that involves cutting trees or shrubs down to ground level to promote new growth. This practice has been used for centuries and is often done to maintain a sustainable supply of wood for various purposes such as fuel, fencing, and craftwork. Coppicing is typically … Read more
What is clearcutting? Clearcutting is a forestry practice in which all trees in a designated area are cut down, leaving no standing trees. This method is often used in commercial logging operations to efficiently harvest timber. Clearcutting can vary in scale from small patches to large swaths of forest, depending on the objectives of the … Read more