Tree farmers branch out around statehouse

Tree Farmers and professional foresters celebrated the deep roots they have in the state and its economy during a stop at the South Carolina Statehouse - timed to mark a special anniversary.

Wednesday, March 2, was the 65th anniversary of the South Carolina Tree Farm Program.  In addition to visiting one-on-one with local lawmakers, participants gathered in the House and Senate for a resolution recognizing the contributions of the Tree Farm program and forestry.
 

Forestry is number one among the state’s manufacturers in jobs (90,000) and payroll of more than $4 billion a year.  Leading economists put forestry’s impact on the state’s economy at $17 billion a year.  South Carolina’s wood and wood products are exported to the tune of a billion dollars every year.
 
It’s the family forests which provide that steady stream of timber.  The vast majority of the state’s 13.1 million acres of woodland is privately owned.  The average family forest is about 65 acres in size and most of those owners live on their land.  Despite its tremendous size and scope, tree farming is essentially a home-grown business in South Carolina.
 
“On the 65th Anniversary of the SC Tree Farm program, we salute Tree Farmers who by their dedication to conservation practices and sustainable forestry serve as mentors to other landowners,” said Bob Scott, President of the SC Forestry Association.  His organization, along with Clemson Extension Service and the Forestry Commission, sponsor the Tree Farm Program and promote membership.
 
“As growers of timber, the state’s leading cash commodity, they are the backbone of the wood and paper products industry which is the largest economic engine in South Carolina. The SC Forestry Association is proud to be a co-sponsor of the program,” Scott added.
 
Created in 1946, the Tree Farm Program works to ensure proper stewardship of forestland.  Along with their national counterpart, The American Tree Farm System, SC’s Tree Farmers have a specific set of goals they are committed to:  active management of woodlands, protecting soil, water and plant communities, providing for wildlife habitat, recreation and beautiful landscapes, and producing the wood America needs to grow.
 
"While forestry is very important, we have the opportunity to see forestry grow even more and contribute to additional employment and economic value across our State," said George Kessler, Tree Farmer and Vice-chairman of the SC Tree Farm program.
  

For more information, contact Scott Hawkins at 803-896-8820