Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

AFA Helps Arkansas

Did you know more than half of Arkansas is forested? In fact, Arkansas' forest land has increased by more than one million acres since 1988. Surprised? Most people are.

Now is a good time to focus on the vital role our forests play in our everyday lives as we commemorate National Forest Products Week October 18-24, created almost 40 years ago by the U.S. Congress.

There are many reasons for Arkansas' abundant forest land. First and foremost is the careful stewardship of this reduce by members of the Arkansas Forestry Association (AFA) and the forestry community at large.

But it's more than that. AFA's lifetime involvement with the forests with the wildlife they protect and nurture, the rivers and streams that cut pristine paths across the lands make up who the group is. Indeed, the forestry community understands and values these resources for all that they offer the environment and our way of life.

AFA members also understand their obligation to provide generations to come with healthy, productive forests.

With an eye on the future, AFA and the AFA Education Foundation sponsor programs that promote forest protection and conversation as well as demonstrate a commitment to the communities where we live and work.

The Tree Farm Program, Project Learning Tree, Log A Load For Kids, and Landowner Education and Assistance Program are just a few ways AFA enhances forestry in Arkansas.

The forestry community is committed to showing the state a higher standard in the care and conservation of Arkansas' forest land. The industry is working hard to ensure that healthy, productive forests continue to provide so many things we depend on everyday clean air and water, stable soil, wildlife habitat, scenic beauty and more than 5,000 forest products everything from lumber and paper to toothpaste and shoe polish.

If you would like to know more about forestry in Arkansas, contact AFA toll-free at 1-888- 698-7337.