First is forest products research, which includes traditional uses and recycling of wood products, and the conversion of biomass to energy. The second discipline is forest operations, which includes development of various management tools. The third discipline is resource economics and policy research, which includes examining the economics of various management practices, and the effect of policies, including taxes, on management options. The final category is social science and urban forestry research, which entails defining the connection between human and forest conditions, including urbanizing and urban forests. 

Perhaps the principle characteristics of Southern forests are the dominance of private ownerships, the continued importance of forests to the economy, and the rapidly expanding urban population. The Southern area constitutes 29 percent of the U.S. forests, but provides 64 percent of the total timber harvested. The South contains 33 percent of the U.S. population, and since 2000 is the fastest growing region of the country. This population places additional demands on forests of the region, with an extensive wildland-urban interface.

To address issues associated with these unique needs, this science area focuses research on the following topics:

1. Improving understanding of how forest management issues affect economic, social, and ecological values;
2. Developing tools and options for landowners to address sustainability issues;
3. Evaluating options for landowners to expand and diversify returns through management; and
4. Developing technology to efficiently use woody biomass for bioenergy, traditional wood products, and other uses.

 

The accomplishment of this research mission requires collaboration with many partners, both within and outside the Forest Service, and both private and public organizations. 

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