Welcome to Idaho’s Forests

Learn about the trees of Idaho, what trees grow where, what are the major forest types, the difference between timberlands and forestlands and more. 40% of the state is covered in trees!

Learn about the parts of a tree, the dynamic life cycle of a forest and the growth and mortality of trees in Idaho forests.

Find out who owns Idaho's forests.  86% of all Idaho forest lands are publicly owned!  Find out about the different forest owners and their objectives.

Healthy forests provide important environmental benefits: clean air and water; food and materials; and habitat and biodiversity for wildlife.  

Learn the habitat types in Idaho forests and the different forest management techniques that benefit habitat and wildlife.

How do we keep Idaho forests forever? Learn about forest management techniques; where, when and how timber is harvested; and reforestation and renewal.

63% of Idaho's water supply comes from forests. Protecting Idaho’s resources when timber is harvested isn’t just a good idea... it’s the law.

Threats to our forests include fire; insects and disease; invasive species; people; climate change and weather. Learn about what can be done to minimize threats to Idaho's forests. 

Sustainable forests meet current environmental, economic and social needs for current and future generations. Learn how sustainable management and forest certification works.

Idaho’s working forests provide wood and paper products that are marketed and used throughout the world every single day. Looking for an Idaho forest product business or how wood products are made? Look no further!

Wood products are renewable, sustainable, recyclable, grown locally, versatile, biodegradable and have a smaller energy, water and carbon life cycle footprint than other products.  Find out why wood is the ultimate green product. 

The economic impact of Idaho's forest products industry is huge!  Learn how the industry boosts the economy and schools and provides well-paying jobs. From tissue to 2x4’s, see how turning trees into useful products helps Idaho’s economy and communities.

Who works in Idaho's forest sector?  The forest products sector in Idaho provides a myriad of jobs in the forest, at the mill, in the office and in related businesses and the pay is above the state average!

Idaho’s forests were a keystone to settling our state and building our nation. Look here for a window to the past.