Sawyers and trees are a part of the same ecosystem, and being able to continue milling and building new, exciting projects means taking care of our forests. 

That’s why sustainability is a growing pillar in the conversation of forestry. Without it we may lose the ability to cut, mill and create using the resources around us. 

Trees help keep our air clean and provide habitats for many wildlife species. But deforestation can have devastating impacts on the environment, depriving birds, bugs, flora and fauna of their homes.  

Knowing what responsible forestry means helps to ensure sawyers can continue harvesting from their lands and building for the future.  

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says due to smart forest management the national forest level has remained “remarkably stable over the last 50 years.” 

But what does forest conservation actually mean? According to the Government of Canada’s description of sustainable forest management, it’s defined as a “range of activities, tools and approaches to achieve forest health and biodiversity objectives” including where trees are harvested. 

That means managing trees in the most sustainable way, without doing damage to the surrounding environment.  

This can be achieved by avoiding trees being used as animal habitats, leaving a mix of tree species, and ensuring all sections of a forest are connected for wildlife needs.  

Of course, it’s also essential to know your local laws when it comes to taking down trees. Depending on the legislation where you live you may be able to fell an Oak or a Pine on your own property with no issues, while other districts require you get permission first. 

These laws are often put in place to better manage urban and rural forests and prevent over-harvesting. Look up the laws where you live to make sure to avoid trouble before starting.  

Lots of folks in the Woodland Mills community share stories of helping their neighbours take down trees in exchange for the leftover logs, or perhaps a friend has already cut some down and is planning to dispose of them. Thinking green means preventing good lumber from going to waste.

Also consider checking to see if there are any tree replanting efforts going on in your community. This not only gives sawyers a chance to give back, minimize their carbon footprint but also partake in conversations with other eco-minded folks. Bring your knowledge as a sawyer into the discussions.

Trees are one of the most important resources the Earth provides. Few would want to be in a world where they aren’t able to continue crafting new and exciting projects. Keeping sustainability in mind lets everyone continue milling, building and creating for many years in the future.