Northeast Climate-Smart Forestry Manual: A New Resource for Sustainable Forest Management

The Maine TREE Foundation, in collaboration with the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) and Manomet, has developed the Northeast Climate-Smart Forestry Manual. This manual serves as a comprehensive guide for forest managers in the Northeastern United States, providing strategies to enhance forest resilience and carbon sequestration in the face of climate change.​

Forests in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York are experiencing the effects of climate change, including shifts in species distributions, increased pest outbreaks, and more frequent extreme weather events. The manual offers science-based practices tailored to these regional challenges, aiming to maintain forest health and productivity.

Key Features of the Manual

• Integration with SFI Standards: Aligns with the SFI 2022 Forest Management Standards, ensuring that recommended practices meet established sustainability criteria.​

• Species-Specific Guidance: Offers management techniques tailored to key tree species, including fir, spruce, beech, maple, pine, and birch, taking into account their responses to climate stressors.​

• Identification of Knowledge Gaps: Highlights areas where further research is needed, fostering continuous improvement in climate-smart forestry practices.​

The development of the manual was supported by an SFI conservation grant, reflecting a collaborative effort among various stakeholders, including state officials, conservationists, and landowners. This collaboration underscores the importance of collective action in promoting sustainable forest management.​

Forest managers, landowners, and other interested parties can access the Northeast Climate-Smart Forestry Manual through the Maine TREE Foundation's website. By implementing the strategies outlined in the manual, stakeholders can contribute to the resilience and sustainability of Northeastern forests.​

To download the manual, Click Here!