July 2, 2009

Web-based directory promotes Valley’s forest industry

VERONA—A new “Local Woods” online directory is providing everything from technical assistance in woodlot management to links to furniture makers, parks and wood art vendors.

Since forestland is such an important part of Virginia’s economy—especially in the Shenandoah Valley—the local Resource Conservation and Development Council’s Forestry Committee launched the Web-based directory in late June.

The directory lists locally made wood products, as well as public parks and forests in the Shenandoah Valley, and it provides sources of local forestry assistance for private woodland owners. It also provides statistics on the amount of forestland in the valley.

Joan Comanor, forestry committee chair for the Shenandoah RC&D Council, said she began formulating the idea for the Web-based directory when she heard about another RC&D council that began a similar site.

Additionally, in the Shenandoah Valley the Buy Fresh, Buy Local campaign for local produce has been gaining in popularity, Comanor said, and it prompted her to think about setting up a similar program for local woods.

“It is primarily for valley residents who own woodland or people who want to locate wood products,” she said. “We hope to evolve and expand it as we get feedback.”
Virginia forestland generates $23.4 billion in forestry products annually, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry, and forests themselves generate an additional $4.1 billion in social and environmental benefits.

Virginia has 15.7 million acres of forestland— 12.2 million of which is privately owned. More than a million acres of that is located in the Shenandoah Valley.

“Virginians probably aren’t aware of the total amount of forestland in the state, or the important role of the forests,” Comanor said.

Trees are a renewable resource. They protect water and air quality; moderate temperatures; provide wildlife habitat, recreation and natural beauty; and are used for a wide variety of consumer products.

Contact Comanor at 540-248-3321.