 |
 |
|
|
Sustainable Forestry
In 1994, a program known as the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) Program was launched by the American Forest and Paper Association (AF&PA).
SFI is a system of principles, guidelines, and performance measures that integrate the perpetual growing and harvesting of trees with the protection of wildlife, plants, soil, air, and water.
What exactly does this mean for South Carolina's forests?
AF&PA member companies in our state are instituting sustainable forestry practices in every aspect of their business, from promptly reforesting lands to promoting the biodiversity of plant and wildlife species. These companies understand that to be truly successful in conserving our natural resources for future generations, the forest industry must demonstrate progress each and every year. As part of their commitment to the program, members pledge to issue a progress report annually to summarize industry activity.
Understanding that no issue -- from protecting endangered species to watershed analysis -- can be dealt with in isolation, members are cooperating with conservation groups and others to develop and employ management strategies that foster forest growth. This is being done in a manner that is consistent with the promotion of biological diversity and with the protection and conservation of wildlife habitat.
Sustainable forestry contributes to water quality enhancement. Members are committed to protecting streams, lakes, and other water bodies on their lands.
Using sustainable forestry practices also includes recognizing company lands that have special ecological, geographic, or historic value and pledging that these places will be managed to protect their unique qualities for the benefit of all citizens.
SFI is forestry's commitment that future generations will have abundant forests and diverse wildlife we now enjoy.
Visit www.sfiprogram.org for more information.
If you are aware of any forestry practices in South Carolina which may be inconsistent with the principles of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program, contact Sandy Jennings at (803) 798-4170, Extension 10 or sandy@scforestry.org.
SFI Inconsistent Practices Procedure for South Carolina - Flow Chart