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Working forest data layers
Working forests are vital to Vermont’s scenic backdrop, rural economy, and long-term capacity to temper and adapt to climate change (Vermont Forests, Parks & Recreation Department, 2015). Across Vermont, forest product harvesting and manufacturing contributes $1.4 billion to the state’s economy (NEFA, 2013). Working forests also provide important habitat for a variety of wildlife, including non-game and game species and multiple Species of Greatest Conservation Need (Vermont Wildlife Action Plan Team, 2015). Not all forest ownerships are of equal capacity. Large ownerships are typically more efficient for forest management and are often more financially viable over the long-term. Some soils and topographies are also much more productive and important for growing forest products. In addition to finances, larger working forest properties also generally have greater capacity to contribute to less tangible working forest values, such as scenery and mitigating the effects of climate change. The Working Forest Resources map shows the town’s Forestlands and Productive Forest Soils.
References
North East Foresters Association (NEFA). 2013. The Economic Importance and Wood Flows of the States of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York.
Vermont Forests, Parks & Recreation Department. 2015. Vermont Forest Fragmentation Report: Report to the Vermont Legislature, submitted to House and Senate Committees on Natural Resources and Energy and the House Committee on Fish, Wildlife, and Water Resources.
Vermont Wildlife Action Plan Team. 2015. Vermont Wildlife Action Plan 2015. Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. Montpelier, VT. |