Most people do not stop to think about the important role that forest products play in our everyday lives, especially in Mississippi.
From clean air, paper, buildings, bridges, energy, chemicals and the jobs that support the production of all these things, our world depends on trees to provide for us.
National Forest Products Week will be observed Oct. 18-24. This annual observance began on Sept. 13, 1960, when Congress passed a joint resolution providing for the establishment of an annual National Forest Products Week to be held each year on the week beginning with the third Sunday in October. (Ironically, it was Rep. E.L. Forrester from Georgia who presented the proclamation in the House for approval.)
President Eisenhower signed the first proclamation two days later, while calling on the people of the United States to observe the week of Oct. 16, 1960, “with activities and ceremonies designed to focus attention on the importance of our forests and forest products to the Nation’s economy and welfare.”
As a renewable and recyclable resource, wood is one of our nation’s most environmentally friendly building materials. Wood fiber is used throughout our daily lives, from the paper we write on to the offices where we work. We value the beauty of wood in our furniture, in our homes, and in artwork that surrounds us.
Today, modern technology and stewardship practices by federal, state, tribal and private landowners have improved the way we manage our natural resources so that forests can meet the needs of current and future generations.
During this time we should recognize the research that has been conducted by the Forest Service and Mississippi State University for more than 100 years in support of its mission to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation’s forests. This research promotes the responsible use of this natural resource. New products and technologies developed through this research create jobs, especially in rural areas, and stimulate economic growth. Without these ongoing efforts to sustain our forests, we might not have anything to celebrate.
Perhaps the best thing about forest products is that they come from a renewable and sustainable resource. Healthy, growing forests play a key role in absorbing carbon dioxide, releasing oxygen, and storing carbon over time.
So, during the week of Oct. 18-24, take a look around, think about the many ways that our forests benefit you in your everyday life.
James L. Cummins is executive director of Wildlife Mississippi, a nonprofit, conservation organization founded to conserve, restore and enhance fish, wildlife and plant resources throughout Mississippi. The website is www.wildlifemiss.org.
