Jefferson County is rich with forest land. Approximately 62% of the state is forest land. Forests cover 18.6 million of New York State’s 30 million acres. A majority of this land is privately own and used for wood and wood pulp. The forest industry employs more than 60,000 people and contributes $4.6 billion to the economy on a yearly basis. Wood is sold to saw mills for use in construction and other wood products, as well as used as a source of heating fuel. However, New York State was not always rich with forest land. Over 150 years ago, the state was less than a quarter forest land. However, after massive regulation and reforestation efforts, forests have increased to the impressive number they are at today. Benefits from forest land include clean water, clean air, wildlife habitat, flood protection, and reduction of greenhouse gases. Forests are also a great recreation spot. Forests in the area have areas for picnics, camping, boating, winter sports, hunting, and fishing. The Department of Environmental Conservation cares for approximately 4 million acres of forests. There are over 37 different places to visit in Jefferson County that are managed by the DEC. Several include Tug Hill State Forest, Pinckney State Forest, Coyote Flats State Forest, and Gould Corners State Forest.
