Forests define New England . . .

Which of us has not been dazzled by the fierce orange of sugar maples in the fall, enjoyed a paddle along a forested lakeshore, skied down a forested slope, or picnicked in the shade of a stately tree in a town or state park? Forests are part of New Englanders’ daily lives.

Nearly all of us rely on forests for the quality and abundance of our region’s outstanding drinking water. Forests cool and clean our air, support 30,000 jobs in the forest products industry, and provide heat to 14% of New England homes.

Trees are central to the quality of life and the economic competitiveness of the region. Th is report reveals forests’ existing contributions and future potential to support New Englanders’ lives and lifestyle. It puts forward the fi rst steps we collectively need to take to seize that potential to ensure a sustainable future.

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