Forests and Forest Products
FOCUS: Ongoing research on the health and management of forested and freshwater systems in a changing climate, from wildlife and vector-borne disease to recreation and forest products. This sector supports Strategies C -H of Maine Won’t Wait.
KEY CONTENT AREAS: Wildlife and Biodiversity * Recreation and Tourism Forest-Based Economies * Forest and Freshwater Carbon * Innovative Forest Products * Freshwater Resources * Vector-borne Diseases and Human Health * Forest Management and Adaptive Silviculture * Conservation and Restoration
We intend to catalog forest carbon research, including carbon-enhancing silvicultural approaches, storage in innovative wood products, and existing knowledge gaps to support state carbon budgeting.
Fresh waters are culturally and ecologically vital systems that are widespread in Maine. We plan to support a network of researchers to streamline collaboration on research, restoration, and education.
We intend to facilitate product research and smart implementation of emerging forest-based products such as fuels, building materials, and packaging materials that replace more carbon-intensive products.
To learn more about active research in this sector, or to share a research project of your own, please contact Val Watson, Forests and Forest Products Specialist, at valerie.k.watson@maine.edu or 207-581-2445.