Forests & Forestry

There are three parts to our forestry program: 1) identifying and protecting wildlands, or areas of conservation interest, 2) promoting sustainable forestry practices both in and surrounding wildland areas, and 3) supporting healthy, economically diverse local communities.

Focus Species Forestry. Maine Audubon developed the Focus Species Forestry guidebook in conjunction with the Maine Department of Conservation, the Small Woodland Owners of Maine, and the Professional Logging Contractors of Maine. Focus Species Forestry is a practical approach to integrating timber management with conservation of biological diversity and can be used by both small woodland owners and large commercial timberland owners. This page includes links to a PDF version of the document, examples of management plans and use of Focus Species Forestry, and other tools that can be used by forest managers.

Guidelines for wildlife trees, downed woody debris, retention patches, and biomass harvesting. (PDF) This fact sheet synthesizes research and recommendations from numerous sources. The guidelines can be used in traditional sawtimber or pulpwood harvests and also include consideration for whole tree and biomass harvesting.

Forestry Recommendations for Maine’s Changing Climate. (PDF) Describes potential impacts of climate change on Maine’s forests and includes recommendations for improving forest resiliency through management.