Forested areas closest to the Chesapeake Bay have declined more rapidly, while some gains continue in the headwaters. The major cause for this loss is development for homes, malls, roads and businesses. As communities grow, we must try to conserve forests for the health of the Bay, its wildlife and and ourselves. In addition to conserving forests, we must protect against fragmentation. Large tracts of forests carved up into smaller tracts fragment the forest.
Forests provide many recreational opportunities, like bird watching, hiking and camping.
Trees, in general, help to regulate the temperature, cooling areas in the summer. Forests act as filters removing soil, nutrients and particulates before they can enter a water supply. Forests also act as a sponge, intercepting and slowing rain, reducing flooding. They help to keep our air clean by removing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. And finally, forests are necessary for the many wood and paper products that Americans consume every day.