Submitted by Betony Jones on Fri, 2007-02-23 17:25.
Hi Phil,
Thanks for the comment. Actually I just logged on to mention another huge threat facing Sierra forest communities, and your post summed it up far better than I would have. The value of forest land for development in California is staggering, and it is a real challenge to keep forest land in production for exactly the reasons you mention.
Recent analysis conducted by CDF indicates that between 1990 and 2000, nearly 300,000 acres of forest and woodland was converted to new residential areas. Over 230,000 acres was converted to large 5-20 acre lots. This style of development is in demand, as everyone wants to own their piece of paradise, but as Phil mentioned the environmental effects are catastrophic.
The state water bond that passed last November has designated $180 million dollars of the bond money to protect Calfornia's working forests. Carbon sequestration and other markets for ecosystem services might emerge as additional resources to help landowners keep their lands forested. It's definitely an uphill struggle. Any other innovative ways people are finding to maintain their small scale working forests despite increased regulations and pressures from developers?
The Threat of Residential Development
Hi Phil,
Thanks for the comment. Actually I just logged on to mention another huge threat facing Sierra forest communities, and your post summed it up far better than I would have. The value of forest land for development in California is staggering, and it is a real challenge to keep forest land in production for exactly the reasons you mention.
Recent analysis conducted by CDF indicates that between 1990 and 2000, nearly 300,000 acres of forest and woodland was converted to new residential areas. Over 230,000 acres was converted to large 5-20 acre lots. This style of development is in demand, as everyone wants to own their piece of paradise, but as Phil mentioned the environmental effects are catastrophic.
The state water bond that passed last November has designated $180 million dollars of the bond money to protect Calfornia's working forests. Carbon sequestration and other markets for ecosystem services might emerge as additional resources to help landowners keep their lands forested. It's definitely an uphill struggle. Any other innovative ways people are finding to maintain their small scale working forests despite increased regulations and pressures from developers?
Betony Jones
Forestry Program Director
Sierra Business Council
530/582-4800 x.309