Forest watersheds are also essential for many fish species and aquatic invertebrates, by maintaining water temperature, water quality, and flow. Intact areas of forest are critically important to forest-nesting species such as migratory songbirds, which require large areas of forest cover to reproduce successfully. These can contribute to the economy on a continuous and sustainable basis if forest lands are managed as a renewable resource. Woodlots add value to farms in additional products available for sale or on-farm use. And urban and suburban trees contribute both to property values and to reductions in energy costs.
Forests contribute to quality of life.
They are an essential part of the landscape valued by residents throughout the Chesapeake Bay region. From street trees to majestic and productive hardwood forests, to old growth white pines and hemlocks, the forests of the region are a major contributor to the region's attractiveness as a place to live, work, visit, and enjoy.