Our Commitment to Sustainable Forest Management
NAFO members believe that private working forests provide environmental, economic and social benefits to meet the needs of present and future generations and are a fundamental part of the basic natural resources infrastructure of our nation Private working forests produce recyclable and reusable wood and paper products society wants and needs; absorb and store carbon; produce clean water and air; sustains vital plants and wildlife; provide quality recreation experiences; and supply a growing source of renewable energy.
Sustainable forest management integrates the production of useful renewable products with conservation of healthy and diverse forest ecosystems across the landscape. Sustainable forest management incorporates practices including planting seedlings and natural seeding, conserving soil and water, maintaining wildlife and fish habitat, and protecting air and water quality.
NAFO members commit to the sustainable management of private working forests as a condition of membership. To demonstrate this commitment, NAFO members that own or manage forest lands agree to:
- Maintain effective internal processes to ensure that our forest management practices adhere to all applicable local, state and federal laws.
- Manage our working forests using methods that support wildlife and fish habitat, biodiversity, soils, air and water quality and aesthetic values.
- Maintain a program to address forest management in adverse weather conditions.
- Use qualified natural resource professionals to manage our working forests.
- Raise awareness about sustainable forest management through education of employees, contractors, suppliers, loggers and other forest owners.
- Confirm the use of Best Management Practices by our contractors, suppliers and loggers.
- Support measures to counteract illegal logging and associated illegal trade.
- Support research and technology development on the sustainable management of working forests.
