The Adirondack Park Agency's proposed reliance on sustainable forestry certification programs ("Clear-cut choice for forest," Feb. 13) as part of its approval process for management of forestlands within the Adirondack Park will facilitate better forest management. This permit proposal would provide an incentive for forest landowners to apply sustainable forest practices and specifically recognizes the value invested in third-party forest certification standards.
Contrary to a comment in the story, the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Inc. is a leader in establishing rigorous standards for certified forests that require independent third-party audits. SFI is governed by a board equally representing environmental, economic and social interests and promotes best practices for sustainable forest management, conserving biodiversity, old growth, water quality and wildlife habitat.
Our science-based standard includes several auditable indicators that place specific requirements on clear-cutting, including visual quality management, size, shape and placement, documentation and record keeping and green-up. Our standard is widely used by public agencies in managing their forestlands, including New York's 762,000 acres of state forests.
We look forward to working with all stakeholders in the Adirondacks to ensure that these treasured forests remain healthy and vital for generations to come.
KATHY ABUSOW
President & CEO
Sustainable Forestry Initiative Inc.
Washington, D.C.