Forest Views 3: Between Fern Gully and Fiber Farms

Local Perspective - Forest Views 1 by Mark Jacobs

Our forests contribute greatly to the health of our environment and our economy – our quality of life. These monthly articles look at various aspects related to Minnesota forests, and other natural resources. They intend to provide factual information regarding these issues. I also express my views on our forests, based on my decades of work in the natural resources field. As you know, views/opinions are a “dime-a-dozen” these days as everyone has many of them. My concern is that we seemingly live in a world of “absolutes”. Discussions tend to be polarized and controlled by special interests, such as lobbyists and advocacy groups. There is typically a sizable middle ground for most issues, but we don’t often hear that voice. My hope is that we can generate discussions that explore the middle ground… the “sweet spot” that can enhance our quality of life for generations to come.

The articles were originally published in the Voyageur Press whose circulation covers a large, rural, heavily forested area in northeastern Minnesota.