Wood isn’t the only resource provided by our forests. Healthy forests provide habitats for hundreds of species of wildlife and fish, as well as clean water. By protecting habitats and watersheds we’re not only helping the environment, we help ourselves as well.
Here in Oregon, about 75 percent of our municipal drinking water comes from our forests. Rain and runoff is absorbed by healthy forest soil, which acts as a natural filtration system. Over time, it’s released into nearby streams or groundwater aquifers. This cycle results in clean, healthy water that requires minimal chemical treatment.
Forest management includes protecting water resources in order to keep water clean for fish, wildlife and us. The Oregon Forest Practices Act (OFPA) protects our forest streams and lakes by regulating:
Oregon is home to hundreds of fish and wildlife species that enjoy living in a variety of forest habitats. We all get excited by a glimpse of deer in the underbrush, seeing salmon make their way upstream or witnessing an osprey snatch its dinner from a pristine lake. Preserving and protecting fish and wildlife habitats is a key belief for a majority of Oregonians.
Our state has implemented special programs to protect grasslands, streams and rivers and forested areas. State and national parks utilize forest management techniques that support biodiversity yet still allow for the public to use and enjoy them for recreation.
The state of Oregon recognizes that private forest landowners bear an economic burden to preserve wildlife habitats. It offers incentives to private landowners who want to voluntarily conserve native wildlife habitats through the Wildlife Habitat Conservation and Management Program. Through this program, landowners can receive a plan to manage their land with best practices that will allow wildlife and fish to thrive.
Through Wildlife in Managed Forests publications, OFRI helps forest landowners understand how to effectively manage their forests to both preserve wildlife habitats and produce timber.
Wildlife in Managed Forests: Elk
Wildlife in Managed Forests: Spotted Owl
Wildlife in Managed Forests: Stream-Associated Amphibians
A Guide to Priority Plant and Animal Species in Oregon Forests