NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / July 8, 2024 / In celebration of National Forest Week, International Paper (IP) and its longstanding partner, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), commend the collaboration between public and private entities that are crucial for supporting robust forests and wildlife throughout the Southeast.
Collaborative Efforts for Forest Health
The joint initiatives between the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the Forestland Stewards Partnership—a long-standing collaboration between IP and NFWF—focus on restoring and maintaining healthy forests across both public and private lands. This partnership integrates funding from NFWF, IP, USFS, and other contributors to support competitive grants aimed at enhancing the health of National Forests and restoring longleaf pine habitats on adjacent private lands. These efforts create wildlife corridors and mitigate wildfire risks.
“One of the most effective ways to ensure the resilience of our forests is through cooperation across boundaries and leveraging public and private resources,” said Jon Scott, Southern Forests Program Director at the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. “Our projects support both public and private landowners, leading to healthier ecosystems and safer communities.”
Significant Achievements in Forestland Stewards Partnership
The Forestland Stewards Partnership has backed over a dozen projects within or adjacent to the 18 National Forests in the historical longleaf pine forest range. The success of these projects is amplified by the USFS’s investments and their willingness to collaborate with non-government organizations and private landowners.
“International Paper proudly celebrates our National Forests this week, and every week,” said Sophie Beckham, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer. “We are grateful for the conservation and recreational opportunities provided within the National Forests, but also for the financial and technical support USFS provides through the Forestland Stewards Partnership. Together, we are working toward a common goal of thriving forests that support wildlife and communities.”
Red-cockaded woodpecker on a longleaf pine tree, with a black and white pattern and red spot, in a lush forest.” 
Success Stories and Wildlife Conservation
A noteworthy success story of National Forest Week that exemplifies the strength of public-private partnerships is the recovery of the red-cockaded woodpecker. One of the first species listed under the Endangered Species Act, extensive conservation efforts have helped this woodpecker achieve a sustainable population in South Carolina’s Francis Marion National Forest (FMNF). These birds rely on mature longleaf pine forests, which they now occupy in nearly all suitable habitats within the FMNF. However, the distance between other mature longleaf forests presents a challenge for the woodpeckers to naturally expand their range.
Efforts supported by partners such as USFS, NFWF, and IP have facilitated the relocation of some woodpeckers from FMNF to carefully selected and prepared longleaf sites on private lands, where new populations are beginning to establish. This initiative showcases the vital role of coordinated conservation activities across public and private lands.
Enhancing Habitat Through Controlled Burns
Funding from organizations like The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and The Longleaf Alliance has been instrumental in enabling controlled burns within the Francis Marion National Forest. These burns are essential for restoring and maintaining longleaf pine habitats crucial for the red-cockaded woodpecker and other wildlife. Moreover, these controlled burns assist private landowners in their longleaf habitat restoration efforts. Seasonal fire crews funded by the partnership have been pivotal in maintaining forest health and resilience, ensuring the long-term success of these ecosystems.
Conclusion
National Forest Week serves as a reminder of the importance of public-private partnerships in fostering healthy forests and wildlife habitats. International Paper, through its collaboration with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and other partners, continues to play a significant role in promoting conservation and sustainability. The combined efforts of public and private entities are essential in ensuring the resilience and vitality of our forests, benefiting both wildlife and communities for generations to come.
