I believe communicating is not just talking but listening. It is understanding and interpreting the public s environmental values and concerns. As professionals, we also have a responsibility to help shape public values based on sound science and long-term sustainability. For SAF, open communication is essential. A civil, provocative dialogue between professionals is healthy, educational, and inspiring.
Foresters are professionals.
Public recognition, acceptance, and support are judged by our integrity and ethics. We must covet this status and maintain our credibility through certification standards and responsible credentialing. The focus of forest management should be on compatibility rather than single or separate use of resources. Most resources can be protected, produced, and enjoyed at the same time in the same forest. Managing for all resources is what the art of forestry is all about.