All of the state forests in Virginia are now certified to the Sustainable Forestry Initiative and American Tree Farm System standards. The Virginia Department of Forestry says that covers more than 68,000 acres across the Commonwealth.
The state forest system gets no general funds from the state government, so it is supported by timber sales. DOF says this certification demonstrates for private landowners how certification can be part of land management efforts while also having sustainable working forests.
“The commitment to sustainability within Virginia State Forests began in 1919 with the gift of 588 acres of land in Prince Edward County from Emmett D. Gallion for the purpose of advancing the cause of forestry in Virginia,” said State Forests Manager Gary Heiser. “Since that time, the state forests have grown in acres, productivity and biological diversity through the dedication of many state forest employees committed to responsible forest management.”
State Forester Rob Farrell says the certification also provides that forest products are legally and sustainably harvested, which gives Virginia producers an advantage over producers from other locations without these kinds of environmental protections.
The Sustainable Forestry Initiative says 14 other states have certified their forests already and eight more are looking to get the certification. The forestry industry in Virginia provides an overall economic impact of more than $21 billion every year.
From CBS 19 News: https://www.cbs19news.com/content/news/Virginias-state-forests-earn-environmental-certifications-499162521.html