With deforestation becoming an increasingly urgent problem, logging companies and property managers throughout the world are always looking for ways to minimize the environmental impact of their activities. Forest certification is an innovative system that allows consumers and manufacturers to trace the source of wood products and monitor the impact these industries have on local communities. Below are a few primary benefits of implementing comprehensive forest management practices.

What Are the Benefits of Forest Certification?

1. Increases the Appeal of Products

More and more consumers say environmental issues are an important factor when choosing a product, a trend that gives certified wood an advantage over other, less environmentally friendly alternatives. Some major retailers now only sell certified wood products, so accessing these markets requires responsible forest management.

2. Protects the Environment

Forest products are renewable, but only if they’re managed carefully. Certification ensures that trees, animals, and other resources are exploited in a manner that allows the ecosystem to fully recover. Sustainable forest management also increases biodiversity, reduces the risk of wildfires, and preserves water and soil quality.

3. Enhances Productivity

By emphasizing careful use of resources and waste reduction, certification practices increase the productivity of forest land. For instance, only cutting down the trees that can be sold instead of clearing the land is the most efficient use of both labor and resources.

4. Benefits Community

The benefits of certification extend past the forest to include the people who live and work nearby. For instance, it creates jobs, as workers are needed to maintain the forest and sell its products. In turn, selling the timber from trees pours money back into the community. Additionally, taking care of the land encourages residents to get outside, stay active, and enjoy nature.  

Since 1972, the experts at Neeley Forestry Service have helped property owners and timber companies throughout the Camden, AR, area meet certification requirements and maximize the return on their investment. With their wide-ranging services and more than 140 years of combined experience, their team offers detailed guidance and insight to help you effectively manage your land. Visit the website to learn more about the benefits of certified forest management, or call (870) 836-5981 to speak with a member of their team today. For regular updates and tips, like them on Facebook.