Forest Conservation Science and Research
Ongoing research and up-to-date science are important for responsible forest management. Since 1995, SFI-certified organizations have contributed more than $1 billion (US) for research activities that improve the health, productivity and responsible management of forest resources.
In the Pacific Northwest, this includes support for the recovery of one of Canada’s most endangered animals, the Vancouver Island marmot; in the southeast United States a program participant is using prescribed fire and management techniques to favor the reproduction of the rare wetland orchid.
Across North America, program participants are working with conservation groups, government agencies and Aboriginal communities to identify and protect important habitat areas and sites with historical value – including salmon stream headwaters in coastal temperate rainforests and habitat for endangered songbirds in the boreal forest. Projects include restoring natural ecosystems, studying how forest management and natural disturbance scenarios may change future carbon stocks, and training staff to blend forest management and wildlife-friendly practices for multiple natural resource benefits.
Research involving SFI partners has led to improved management for the red cockaded woodpecker in the southeast United States and new information on the habits of the Canadian lynx in the northeast. Work is underway with the American Bird Conservancy to develop new standard provisions to conserve priority sites for endangered and critically endangered species.
Through its continual improvement process, SFI Inc. uses science-based research to strengthen its forest management standard. For example, program participants use regionally appropriate science, such as NatureServe’s conservation status assessments, to identify the most imperiled species and ecosystems found on their lands and to develop plans for protecting them. The National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) has developed technical information and tools to help its members meet SFI forest certification requirements.