Historically, low intensity fires occurred frequently in low elevation forests and did not kill the larger trees. A variety of plants and animals adapted to the many niches created by fire. Nutrients stored in trees were released by fire, preparing the land for the next generation of trees. In our dry climate, historically fire recycled and removed a very high percentage of the excess trees and woody debris. Unless trees are cut and removed, most will eventually burn.
Many residential areas are adjacent to forests at high risk for catastrophic wildfires.
Timber harvesting, in combination with prescribed fire, is an important tool in restoring and sustaining our forests and associated plant and animal communities over the long term. Thinning unnaturally dense forests should be our first priority on national forest lands. Timber harvesting can reduce fire severity, but not the number of fires. Provide employment Forestry provides good jobs in the woods and mills. These jobs are very important to the rural areas where alternative employment opportunities are limited.