"Disturbing" But Wholly Helpful
We can make and refresh early successional habitat for wildlife by mimicking natural disturbances like wildfires, floods, and windstorms.
To create young forest and shrubland, partners in the Young Forest Initiative carefully use science-based techniques including prescribed burning, mulching older shrubs so they grow back vigorously and fruitfully, and replacing invasive shrubs with native ones that offer better food and cover. Timber harvests, properly sited and carried out, are another way to create young forest while yielding sustainable forest products, boosting local economies, and bringing landowners a financial return.
Federal and state agencies, conservation organizations, municipalities, timber products companies, and land trusts are making thousands of acres of early successional habitat to help wildlife. Private landowners play a key role, too.
