Ga. Forests Valued in Billions to Ecosystem

ATLANTA – Researchers say their study shows Georgia’s
forests provide $37 billion annually in ecological benefits to the
state.

The study conducted by University of Georgia researchers
measured indirect values of the forests.

Rebecca Moore, an assistant professor in the University of
Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources,
conducted the three-year study on the state’s 22 million acres of
privately owned forestland.

The study involved placing values on such factors as water
filtration, carbon storage, wildlife habitat and aesthetics.

Moore and her colleagues presented their findings on Wednesday,
Georgia Forestry Day, to Gov. Nathan Deal and members of the
Legislature.