A U.S. Forest Service study found that Barnstable and Plymouth counties, with their sandy soil, drying winds and fuel type are more fire prone than fire ravaged Southern California. Brush Breakers, which can easily drive over small trees, were developed in Barnstable County in the 1930's. Smokey Bear was created of the nation's need to protect her forested resources and enable the war effort in 1944. More people are building homes in forest environments. Forests protect soils and watersheds, improve air quality, reduce noise and pollution and provide us with numerous amenities which improve the quality of life.
Wildlife is dependent on forests and open space for food and shelter.
The planting of trees and management of our forest resourcees is cited as one possible cure to global warming. Many citizens enjoy the state's outdoors by fishing, camping, hunting, hiking and many other forms of recreation.