State Forest

State Forest Practice Laws and Assistance:

Sustainable forest management policies, programs and regulations for private forest lands in the United States are primarily under the jurisdiction of state governments. Federal statutes such as the Clean Water Act, the Endangered Species Act and the Rivers and Harbors Act can impact private forestlands. A network of state forestry agencies, commissions, extension agents, consulting foresters, landowner assistance programs and others provide assistance to state agencies and to landowners to protect water quality or ensure reforestation.

State forest practices laws and regulations are varied around the country. States such as Oregon, Washington and California have enacted what are known as State Forest Practices Acts. The regulations are developed and revised by various state boards and agencies. Other states have relied more exclusively on a set of best management practices, or BMPs, that are designed to protect water quality during forestry operations.

State laws and regulations can address multiple forest management practices and procedures. Examples include:

• Administrative procedures;
• Enforcement and penalties;
• Planning;
• Reforestation;
• Water quality;
• Forestry practices;
• Fire;
• Chemical use;
• Forest land conversion.