Alabama Forest Survey

AUBURN, Ala.—An Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station survey of more than 700 forest owners in the state revealed that income from timber sales, keeping land in the family, and appreciation for beauty are the three primary benefits gained from owning timberland.

John Bliss, assistant professor of Forestry at Auburn University, conducted the survey that indicated more than half of the owners questioned have harvested timber, planted trees or undertaken some other forest management activity in the recent past.

While a majority of those surveyed characterized themselves as politically conservative, they indicated support for regulating or controlling forest management practices where necessary to protect environmental values, such as endangered species habitat and wetlands.

Responses to an additional forestry knowledge quiz included the survey indicated that owners lack basic knowledge about forests and forest management techniques. About half of the respondents gave incorrect replies to each of the 10 true/false questions on the quiz.

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News from:

Office of Ag Communications & Marketing

Auburn University College of Agriculture
Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station
3 Comer Hall, Auburn University
Auburn, AL 36849
334-844-4877 (PHONE) 334-844-5892 (FAX)

Contact Jamie Creamer, 334-844-2783 or jcreamer@auburn.edu
Contact Katie Jackson, 334-844-5886 or smithcl@auburn.edu

2/17/92