Public Perceptions of Clearcutting

Abstract

Despite widespread opposition to clearcutting, even among forestland owners, some foresters continue to think that lack of understanding is the source of public disapproval. To American citizens today, the forest is not just a fiber factory, to be manipulated to produce wood products for human consumption in an efficient and rational way, and trees are not just a crop. Now that the forest is no longer the exclusive domain of professional foresters, forest practices will not be acceptable unless they are compatible with prevailing beliefs and values - and until public trust in forestry is restored.