In 1998, Pennsylvania became only the second state in the nation to receive an environmental seal of approval for its state-owned forestlands. This certification validates our management of the Commonwealth s forests using practices that ensure the long-term health of these precious lands. Today, we continue to lead, as owners of the largest certified forest in North America and one of the largest in the world. The eight Pennsylvania companies that joined me on the trade mission, agreed that certified wood, albeit a small niche market currently, has potential to grow into a consumer-driven product. Pennsylvania will be there to meet that demand.
Sustainable forests are healthy forests.
In addition to deer problems, another great deterrent to forest health is the gypsy moth population, which is on the rise. This May, we will spray about 170,000 acres, primarily in the central third of the state. Because of the cyclical nature of the pest, we expect next year s spray needs will be greater. Hurricane Floyd struck the park in September 1999 uprooting or fracturing thousands of trees over hundreds of acres. Removing the timber would not only provide financial benefits, but would improve aesthetics and visitor safety and reduce the risk of wildfires.