P.O. Box 254 | Bristol, VT 05443 | tel. (802) 453-7728 fax. (802) 453-7729
visit us: http://www.familyforests.org
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MissionTo conserve the health of the forest community, and when appropriate, to promote the careful cultivation of local family forests for community benefits. PrinciplesALL MEMBERS of the forest community have inherent value. AS MEMBERS of the forest community, people have legitimate needs for the economic, ecological, and social values of forests. THE NEEDS OF PEOPLE—like those of all other earthly beings—should not exceed ecological carrying capacities. RECYCLING, SUBSTITUTION, AND DURABLE USES of forest products should be promoted. WORKING LANDSCAPES should include interconnected forest reserves and sustainably-managed forests. ECOLOGICAL FORESTRY practices should conserve biodiversity, water quality, site productivity and scenic beauty; use only biological pest control; and mimic natural processes. ECONOMICALLY-SECURE, WELL-INFORMED forest stewards—including landowners and the loggers and foresters who assist them—are most capable of practicing ecologically sustainable forestry and of making continuous improvement. LOCAL FOREST PRODUCTS—from ecologically sustainable forestry operations—should be promoted over non-native products. PUBLIC forests and small privately-owned forests should complement the functions and values of one another. LOCAL VALUE-ADDING NETWORKS - including empowered forest friends and stewards, wood using businesses, and loyal forest product customers—are essential to the well-being of the forest community and should be encouraged. © Vermont Family Forests 2010 |
