From www.dovetailinc.org:
(Minneapolis, MN) – Forestinfo.org, an online environmental education resource hub, announces the release of a new Eco-Link publication, National Forests & Clean Water: Understanding the Relationship.
A strong correlation exists between National forest lands and major U.S. waterways. This isn’t merely a coincidence – politicians and forestry professionals began implementing legislation as far back as the mid nineteenth century in order to protect the quality of our nation’s natural water sources and prevent the spread of water born disease. These laws were the result of the devastating effects that mismanaged logging operations and deforestation were having on America’s watersheds at the time. As a result of these efforts, 155 National Forests were created, which continue to have a tremendous impact on American water supplies.
“It has been shown time and time again that healthy forested watersheds improve water quality and reduce water treatment costs,” states Kathryn Fernholz, Executive Director. “The link between clean water and forests is crystal clear and so important for students to understand because it directly affects us all.”
Currently, management practices such as wildfire mitigation are being implemented in National Forests to protect forest land and water quality. Strategically controlled burns are being conducted to reduce flammable fuels and protect water from wildfire related physical, chemical and biological changes. It is imperative to recognize the importance of National Forests and the relationship between clean water. As of 2012, 124 million Americans, or approximately 40% of the country’s population, relied on Natioanl Forests and grasslands for their clean water drinking supply.
Forestinfo.org’s Eco-Links are a great way to learn about forest ecosystems and explore related fields, issues and options. Eco-links are available as free PDF downloads on Forestinfo.org and may also be purchased in hard-copy.
To download a copy of the new National Forests & Clean Water Eco-Link, click here:http://www.forestinfo.org/sites/default/files/pdfReports/EcoLinkNatlForestsWater.pdf
To access the full library of more than 35 unique Eco-Link publications, please visit: http://www.forestinfo.org/eco-links