Natural
resources, such as those provided by the Lincoln County Forest, are the base for
satisfying ecological and socioeconomic needs of present and future generations. The
mission of the county forest is to manage and protect these resources on a sustainable
basis.
County Forest resources should be protected from natural
catastrophes such as fire, insect and disease outbreaks, and from human threats such as
encroachment, over-utilization, environmental degradation and excessive development: while
managing for environmental needs including watershed protection, protection of rare plant
and animal communities and diversity. These same resources must be managed for
sociological needs, which include provisions for recreational opportunities and the
production of raw materials for wood-using industries.
Management must balance local needs with broader concerns through
integration of forestry, wildlife, fisheries, endangered resources, water quality, soil
and recreational recommendations and practices. Management will provide this variety of
product and amenities for the future through the use of sustainable forest management
practices.