Welcome to 4-H Forestry

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For thousands of years, people have depended on one of the most valuable natural resources for food and shelter—the forest. Mississippi’s forests are very productive. The state has fertile soils, a long growing season, and precipitation well distributed throughout the year. Forests comprise about 62 percent of the state’s land area—19.2 million acres. Hardwood timber is most common in Mississippi, but pine volume and area are significant. Forests and forest products provide more than 61,000 jobs in the state. With value-added processing of timber, wages paid, and ancillary spending, the forest industry contributes more than $13 billion to the state economy every year. Depending on market prices, forestry and soybeans are the second- or third-ranked agricultural commodities behind poultry production.

By becoming involved with 4-H Forestry, members learn about this great natural resource and how to care for it. Members will have the opportunity to learn many interesting facts about forests and put them to good use.

This publication introduces 4-H members to the importance of forestry and natural resource management. It explains how forests provide essential resources such as wood, recreation, wildlife habitat, and environmental benefits like soil protection and clean water. The publication covers the basics of tree anatomy and growth, the ecological concept of forest succession, and the role of fire in southern forests. It describes the science and practice of forestry, including sustainable management, harvesting methods, and forest improvement techniques. The guide also highlights the economic significance of forestry in Mississippi and encourages youth participation in 4-H Forestry projects to learn about tree identification, forest management, and conservation. 4-H Forestry projects offer exciting activities for everyone, whether you live in the city or the country.

You can also contact state Extension specialists or your local Extension office for answers to specific questions.

The information given here is for educational purposes only. References to commercial products, trade names, or suppliers are made with the understanding that no endorsement is implied and that no discrimination against other products or suppliers is intended.

Publication 1205 (POD-06-25)

Revised by James Shannon, PhD, Extension Specialist I, North Mississippi Research and Extension Center, from an earlier revision by Brady Self, PhD, Associate Extension Professor, Forestry, and James Henderson, PhD, Professor and Head, Coastal Research and Extension Center. Written by John Kushla, PhD, Extension/Research Professor (retired), Andrew Londo, former Extension Professor, and Thomas Monaghan, Extension Professor (retired).