The expenses are high and the eventual benefits of reforestation are long term because of the simple fact trees must grow for many years until mature enough for harvesting. I believe this legislation is necessary to overcome the economic reality faced by those involved in this industry. Reforestation is good for the environment, good for economy and good for the industry. With these changes, forest landowners will be encouraged to operate in an ecologically sound manner that leads to the expansion of investment in this vital natural resource. Several House Members have cosponsored this legislation in a show of bipartisan support, which translates into potential good news for the future stability of our forestry-based economy.
Environmentalists agree that reforesting can have numerous benefits for the environment.
By replanting our nation's forests we will also further protect our wetlands, streamside and wildlife management zones and critical habitats. Additionally, the planting and replanting of trees will help reduce levels of unhealthy carbon dioxide and produce increased levels of oxygen into the atmosphere. Furthermore, reforestation will help to address the growing concerns associated with noise and air pollution. Lastly, by promoting reforestation tax incentives, landowners will continue to transform marginal and highly erodible agricultural land, which is used for livestock and commodity production, into ecologically beneficial forestland. While I realize the expenses are high and the eventual benefits of reforestation may seem years down the road since trees must grow for many years until mature enough for harvesting, I believe we can all agree that reforestation is not only good for the economy, but is good and needed for the environment.