The case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Virginia. These lands are managed for timber, wildlife, water quality and recreation uses. This certification demonstrates how proper management can both sustain our natural resources and help foster strong local economies. DEC had to meet more than 75 criteria established by the Forest Stewardship Council, including demonstrating that forest managers protect streams and wetlands and conserve fragile or uncommon wildlife. SmartWood certification will give these businesses another edge by letting consumers know that New York's forest products are environmentally friendly.
Education is the key to excellence in environmental stewardship.
The program brings together local, state and federal agencies, environmental organizations, businesses, industry and others to coordinate statewide environmental education activities. A priority of Virginia Naturally 2000 will be the development of a web site to promote the widespread availability of environmental information and publicize environmental education opportunities throughout the state. Virginia Naturally 2000 will help youth and adults across the Commonwealth make informed decisions about their actions, to promote a better understanding of the environment and the roles everyone can play in protecting it. The Virginia Resource-Use Education Council is providing staff support for the initiative, which will focus on coordinating the development and consistent delivery of environmental education programs in the schools, promoting alternative methods of educating Virginia citizens from all walks of life, and promoting lifelong learning and professional development based on Virginia s academic standards. The wide ranging agenda is organized around environmental topics including natural resources, environmental health, rural issues, watershed protection, and regulatory compliance.