This indicators refers to the extent of forested land in different ownership types, which will determine the types of permissible and actual uses on a landscape. Privately owned land is more likely to be used for extraction (e.g., logging) than public and therefore may not be in good ecological condition.
Many public universities have as part of their mission conducting research for the good of the public and the state within which they are located. In order to carry out research that improves understanding of forests and forestry, funding is required to support researchers and students.
Forest programs vary in their level of requirement. Voluntary programs depend on landowners compliance with guidelines and have low levels of requirement. Regulatory programs require certain activities or prohibit certain activities by landowners. There is little evidence that one approach is generally more effective than the other and it is likely that both are important in protecting forest lands and ecosystems.
Recruiting and retaining employees in state forestry agencies is likely to contribute to sustainable forestry practice, assuming that regulations are present and enforced and the employees have training and expertise appropriate to understanding dynamic forest ecosystems and impacts of disturbance.
Assessments of forest holdings and conditions are critical for long-term strategic planning by state agencies. This could be planning for management of activities on state forests, or regulations to encourage sustainability on private lands.
Planning management activities on state forests and regulations affecting logging on private lands may improve the sustainability of these areas and the benefits they provide to the public.
State forest agencies may be involved in a narrow or a wide range of planning. Its likely that wider involvement in planning will improve recognition of the value of forest lands and their services by other planning processes.
Forest management often means a combination of activities associated with logging and/or with re-planting. Standards for these activities could be voluntary (e.g., as part of forest certification) or regulatory. Transparent standards and guidelines provide a way for the public and decision-makers to protect ecosystem services and benefits (e.g., clean water, wildlife habitat).
