Forest Management

Forest management is a dynamic and complex process. Learn how to get the most out of your environment and discover educational content on managing forests. Recommendations on forest pests and disease control, wildlife, and other vital forest management aspects can be obtained through Penn State Extension’s woodland resources.

Private Forests in Pennsylvania

Over half of Pennsylvania is comprised of forests, with more than 70% owned by private citizens. The 17 million forested acres covering the state provide a significant economic, cultural, and social value.

The Bureau of Forestry – under the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) – is Pennsylvania’s leading forest conservancy agency. It is responsible for managing state forests, promoting forestry, and providing assistance to communities, landowners, and the general public.

The health and vitality of PA forests are further being improved by Penn State’s Center for Private Forests. The Center focuses on continuously engaging communities to apply stewardship practices to care for forest ecosystems. The Woodland Owners Association provide members with additional information on forest management through various meetings, tours, and field demonstrations.

Learn more about managing forests in PA with Penn State Extension’s Forest Landowner Conference. The conference lays out different management options available for maintaining a healthy and diverse forest.

Forest Stewardship

Forest stewardship is an invaluable part of woodland management. It includes the use and care of natural resources to ensure forests’ health and productivity in the long-term. A forest stewardship activities plan is essential for effectively implementing a forest stewardship ethic.

Private forest owners can find assistance with improving and maintaining a healthy woodland through the Forest Stewardship Program (FSP). Landowners who own between 5 and 1,000 acres of woodland in Pennsylvania can find further information in the PA Forest Stewardship Program publication.

Numerous public agencies and private organizations provide professional assistance to help forest owners meet their goals and objectives. Penn State Extension has compiled an extensive list of available services, programs, and resources.

Teaching youth about forests and natural resources is the best way of providing young citizens and future landowners with an understanding and appreciation of the land. Discover appropriate forest teaching activities and curriculum recommendations with the Forest Education for Teachers and Youth Leaders online course. Additional courses are available on forest education for the general public, as well as sound stewardship practices for woodland owners.

Forest Health and Sustainable Forestry

Healthy and productive forests are essential for cleaning our air and conserving wildlife. Along with using carbon dioxide and providing oxygen, healthy woodlands protect and filter water supplies, provide wildlife habitat, and supply key ingredients for countless products.

Sustainable forestry is an increasingly important concept aimed at regenerating healthy forests for future generations. At its core, sustainable forestry is based on managing natural resources and sustaining beautiful landscapes and wildlife habitat. Penn State Extension offers further information on conserving biodiversity and understanding biological health in forests.

Private Forest Management Resources

To maintain a healthy forest in a sustainable way, it is crucial to use responsible management practices. Successful forest management begins with identifying objectives and taking steps to achieve them.

Generating additional income from timber harvesting is an important objective for many Pennsylvania woodland owners. Discover how to use harvesting as a management tool to improve forests with Penn State Extension’s Timber Harvesting: An Essential Management Tool publication.

A nontechnical guide to best management practices for forests in PA can also be accessed through Penn State Extension. In this guide, you will find an overview of Pennsylvania forests and guidelines for forest resource management, along with relevant regulations. Additional resources on implementing stewardship practices to enhance natural areas, as well as tips on managing small woodlots can be found.