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NORTHERN FOREST LANDS COUNCIL P ROJECT AREA DESCRIPTION Location: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York Project size: 26 million acres Initiator: Governors Task Force, Congress The study area is most closely defined by the ecological boundary of the spruce-fir zone in the Northeast U.S, extending over several states (but not into Canada). Landform in this area ranges from lowland swamps to high mountain ranges. The vegetative cover, depending on the topography, is predominantly a mix of spruce-fir and northern hardwoods. Federally-listed threatened and endangered species in the area include the bald eagle, eastern mountain lion, and osprey. The most common land uses are privately-owned timber production and small amounts of agriculture. A portion of land is maintained within private reserves, as well as in state forests and parks. In 1988, Congress funded the Northern Forest Lands Study. A four-state Governors Task Force guided the study, and recommended formation of the Northern Forest Lands Council. The Council, funded by Congress for four years beginning in 1990, was comprised of four members from each state and one from the U.S. Forest Service. Their goal was to make recommendations to both Congress and the Governors on what could be done to maintain the large forested tracts of lands from being converted to non-forest use. The Council submitted a final report of 37 recommendations in September 1994. Many of these recommendations are not specifically ecosystem focused. ECOSYSTEM STRESSES The recommendations fall into the following categories: foster stewardship of private lands, protect exceptional resources, strengthen the economies of rural communities, and promote more informed decisions. An example of one of the specific strategies designed to reach the stewardship goal is tax equity -- taxing forest land at its use value instead of its development value. Changing current tax policies aims to prevent driving land toward subdivision and development. Threats to the ecosystem include suburbanization and road development northward from Boston. Development especially is drawn to waterfront areas of lakes and major rivers, and can harm water quality. Population growth in the Northeast and increased recreation use in highly scenic or fragile areas also stresses the ecosystem. Intensive timber production can impair wildlife habitat and water quality. Periodic spruce budworm epidemics have affected the ecosystem as well. P ROJECT DESCRIPTION The project was motivated by public concern over large scale changes in land ownership patterns and traditional uses. Due to increased land values in the 1980s, many lands were transferred from regional companies to multinational corporations with little allegiance to the region. The public was concerned that these companies were looking at timber as an under-valued asset without considering the environmental or social implications. P RESENT STATUS & OUTLOOK The Council dissolved in September 1994 and their report is now being implemented at the state and federal levels , albeit selectively since the recommendations are voluntary. This is a long-term effort and many recom- ____________ 201 Ecosystem Management in the United States: An Assessment of Current Experience NORTHERN FOREST LANDS COUNCIL -- continued mendations, such as policy changes to tax codes, will not be realized immediately. Factors Facilitating Progress The willingness of the 17 council members to work together was extremely important to progress, especially since their interests were so diverse. The financial backing of Congress and the support of the four Governors were also essential. The common perception of a threat in the region helped the project to maintain momentum, and the residents of the region were involved at all stages of the Council’s work. Obstacles to Progress Coordination of four states, each with a different view and way of doing business, was a challenge throughout the process. In addition, getting groups with different philosophies and regional perspectives to agree on a middle ____________ 202 ground demanded innovative approaches. Contact information: Mr. Charles Johnson Vermont Department of Forests, Parks & Recreation 103 S. Main St., 8 South Waterbury, VT 05671-0601 (802) 241-3652 Fax: (802) 244-1481 E-mail: [email protected]