Yale experts study importance of forest enhancement, sustainment

Forests are often taken for granted which is a mistake given the number of benefits they provide.

Yale Sustainability reported there is a human threat that must be realized as different species are introduced into their ecosystems or they were removed systematically in the name of improvement.

There are efforts that can be made to sustain forests, which among other things offer a natural collection and filtering point for water, protect against the greenhouse effect and provide food and recreation.

Foresters can imitate natural disturbances such as windstorms, by harvesting trees, Yale Sustainability reported. Changes can be made to organize trees along the lines of diversity and age, which can create conditions for growth. Education and research can also prove valuable in sustaining forests.

Yale has been looking at the process since 1900 which a Forestry School was founded. There are 10,880 acres spanning three states that are part of a working landscape. The pinnacle of the student experience is a 12-week period known as "Forest Crew." The students overlap a stay with research students and incoming master's student at the Yale School of the Environment. It is designed to create a forest community, providing participation in the experience and knowledge and enjoyment.