Valuing Pennsylvania's Forests

Pennsylvania's nearly 17 million acres of forest provide an array of values including clean air and water, recreation opportunities, wood products and habitat for thousands of plants and animals.  On Thursday, January 12th at the Cumberland Woodland Owners’ Association meeting, Dr. James Finley, Penn State Professor of Forest Resources, will speak on the social, economical and ecological aspects of our forests and the benefits they provide.  The meeting will be held at 7:00 P.M. at the Cumberland County Extension Office which is located at 310 Allen Road in Carlisle.  You do not have to be a member and there is no cost to attend. 

Forests perform many important environmental functions and contribute to our biological wealth.  Pennsylvania’s forests are also an important renewable natural resource and include some of the nation’s most commercially valuable hardwood species.  They are not only a source of aesthetic beauty, but also of economic viability and employment for thousands of residents.  Understanding the benefits our forests provide and taking stock of our forest resources is necessary for ensuring its sustainability for future generations.

The Cumberland Woodland Owners Association is an organization of forestland owners and others interested in forestry issues in south central Pennsylvania.  For more information about the meeting or the Cumberland Woodland Owners Association, contact Fred Peabody at 717/776-3565 (email: fredp5@earthlink.net).