Thriving Economy in Ashtabula County's Forest Sector
Ashtabula County, nestled in northeast Ohio, boasts a significant amount of forested land, making it an important player in the state's forestry sector. The benefits of woodland management in this region extend far beyond the forest itself, contributing to the county's economy, environment, and community.
The forested acres in Ashtabula County, which amount to nearly 214,000 acres or 48.5% of the total land cover, are primarily privately owned. This vast forestland is home to a wealth of timber, with an estimated 970 million board feet of sawtimber. The top five species make up 79.4% of the total volume.
The management of timber in Ashtabula County offers several advantages. Compared to many other land uses, it requires less long-term input, making it a sustainable and cost-effective choice for landowners.
The forest industries in Ashtabula County contribute to the local economy through employment and commerce related to timber and wood products. The Wood Furniture Manufacturing sector, for instance, had 141 employees in 2010, while the Paper Manufacturing sector employed 373. The Wood Products Manufacturing sector, too, had 388 employees during the same year.
In 2010, the employment in Ashtabula County's forestry and logging industry was 93. The value-added in this industry was $3,922,413, and the industrial output reached $9,036,288. The total direct industrial contributions from the forest industries amounted to $229,094,854, as shown in Figure 6.
The forestry sector in Ashtabula County is not just an economic driver; it also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts and sustainable resource management. Standing timber, for example, is considered a stable form of wealth, often comparable in performance to mutual fund investments.
For those interested in learning more about Ashtabula County's forest industries, various resources are available. These include The Ohio State University School of Environment and Natural Resources, Ohio State University Extension, Ashtabula County Soil and Water Conservation District, Ohio Society of American Foresters, Ohio Forestry Association Master Logging Company Program, Call Before You Cut, and official websites and databases.
In conclusion, Ashtabula County's forestry sector offers a multitude of benefits, from improvements in forest health and wildlife habitat to economic contributions through employment and commerce. As a responsible steward of its natural resources, Ashtabula County continues to strive for sustainable forest management that benefits both the environment and the local economy.
[1][2][3][4][5] - Sources for further information on Ashtabula County's forest industries
- The vast forestland in Ashtabula County, which is primarily privately owned, hosts a significant amount of timber, with an estimated 970 million board feet of sawtimber, making it a valuable resource for the agriculture and wood products industry.
- Sustainable forest management in Ashtabula County not only supports the local economy through employment and commerce but also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, as standing timber acts as a stable form of wealth, mimicking the performance of mutual fund investments.
- Aside from the economic benefits, the forest industries in Ashtabula County contribute to conservation efforts and sustainable resource management, ensuring the long-term health of the region's forests and natural resources.
- For individuals interested in learning more about Ashtabula County's forest industries, resources such as the Ohio State University School of Environment and Natural Resources, Ohio State University Extension, Ashtabula County Soil and Water Conservation District, Ohio Society of American Foresters, Ohio Forestry Association Master Logging Company Program, Call Before You Cut, and various official websites and databases are available.
