As a matter of fact, in Texas, non-industrial foresters harvest an estimated 91,000 acres per year but only replant 36,000 acres per year. For the sake of our nation's forests, for the sake of our environment, for the sake of our economy, and for the sake of all Americans, this alarming trend must be halted. A shortage of timber in the future will mean that forests will continue to disappear, our nation's beautiful environment will ultimately suffer, and we will see higher prices for raw material, which will in turn make it difficult to survive in an increasingly competitive market. 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.