In the beginning of this report, forest health was defined as the condition that provides desired sustainable ecosystems where biotic and abiotic influences do not threaten resource management objectives. Management objectives may be many and various, but all should point toward a forest that is resilient across the landscape, can recover from a range of disturbances, and can provide for current and future needs of people.
Needs vary between and within generations and govern the values and uses of the forest.
The values and uses are seen in the choices and activities of Californians. These choices and activities, along with drought, are the most influential forces on forest health in California. The quality of the choices and activities we impose have determined and will determine forest health in California. Forest health monitoring indicates that most of California's trees are free of immediate health problems. Those problems that do exist for trees, stands, and landscapes can be addressed by appropriate practices and policies.