In the near future, I plan to introduce a resolution celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative.
 
Pennsylvania is blessed to have 17 million acres of forestland that provide ecological, recreational, and economic benefits to its citizens. These benefits are reflected in Pennsylvania’s extensive state forest parks, which are open for all to explore, as well as in the robust forest products industry that employs tens of thousands and drives rural economic growth.
 
In the early 1990s, there was a growing concern about forest sustainability and industry practices. In response, the forest products industry launched the Sustainable Forestry initiative (SFI) to promote responsible forestry practices. The Pennsylvania SIF Implementation Committee was created to execute and advocate for the SFI’s innovative standards and principles.
 
Over the past 30 years, the Pennsylvania Implementation Committee has advocated for responsible forest sustainability through logger training, landowner outreach, and public education on the importance of forest health, industry best management practices, and sustainable timber harvesting. Through these efforts, the SFI program has grown into a globally recognized certification system for sustainable forestlands, while maintaining its strong local focus.
 
I hope that you will join me in co-sponsoring this resolution. If you have any questions regarding this resolution, please contact Isaac Evans in my office at (717) 787-9684 or ievans@pasen.gov.