The Forest Service has multiple programs to promote healthy forests on public and private forests including the Community Forest Program, the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program, and the Forest Legacy Program.
BIGHORN MOUNTAIN FORESTRY PROJECTS
THE USE OF PRESCRIBED FIRE
As a second edition of their webinar series focused on forestry issues, the Western Landowners Alliance (WLA) recently hosted a panel discussion on the uses of and challenges inherent in using prescribed fire to manage forests. While the speakers agreed that prescribed fire is a useful tool for proper management in most places, there were resounding concerns from all of the panelists regarding the use of prescribed fire including public perception and landowner education, liability, personnel, planning and coordination, and cost.
OBJECTIVES, BARRIERS AND OPPORTUNITIES IN PRIVATE FORESTRY
Across much of the American West, primarily the southwest, overstocked and mismanaged forests are leading to poor tree growth, increased fire danger and increases in threads to overall forest health from insects and disease. Additionally, the proper management of these same forests has the ability to create positive impacts in local economies by providing jobs and goods for regional communities. This intersection of the issues of private land stewardship and bolstering sustainable economies fits squarely within the mission of The Western Landowners' Alliance (WLA).