Sustainability practices drive modern forestry in Idaho

It’s ecologically sound, economically viable and socially desirable

Sustainability is a forest management philosophy based on treating all resources in the forest in a way that doesn’t compromise their present and future social, economic and environmental values.

Sustainable Forest Practices Make Common Sense

Idaho depends on its forests in so many ways.  Forests provide habitat for plants and animals, filter our drinking water, provide Idahoans a vast playground in which to recreate and supply a renewable resource for making the forest products we use every day — thereby providing thousands of jobs in Idaho’s rural communities.  These social, economic and environmental benefits are crucial to the quality of life in Idaho. Working forests are also the cultural and economic foundation of many communities. It’s not surprising that sustainable forestry practices are embraced by Idaho forestland owners.  

It’s the Law

Idaho’s Forest Practices Act makes renewability and sustainability a legal responsibility on all private and state lands. Landowners are required to reforest following harvest and to comply with Best Management Practices (BMPs) in all management activities to assure sustainability of water quality, soils and wildlife habitat. On private forest lands, the Idaho Department of Lands assures compliance with the law through inspections of harvested areas. Over many years, those inspections have shown a 97% compliance with the Act’s many rules. On federal lands, managers comply with an agreement to meet or exceed the Act’s rules covering Best Management Practices. The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality conducts periodic audits of all forest ownership to ensure compliance and resource protection. Learn more about Laws That Protect the Forest here.