Forests purify ground and surface waters. In fact, forests serve as a primary way of protecting and managing public drinking water supplies. Forested buffers protect streams and ponds by filtering sediments and some nutrients that can degrade water quality and aquatic habitats. Forests are critical in sustaining the natural balance of the water cycle and protecting watersheds. Forests serve to protect us from frequent flooding and replenish groundwater resources. This is because the majority of rain and snowmelt soaks into the forest canopy and floor rather than quickly draining to the nearest surface water body.

Learn more about forests on the links below.

Forests: A Working World in Your Backyard
   Teacher and High School Students Resource Materials

Forest Certification & Assessment
   The Forest Certification and Assessment Process under the Rhode Island Farm, Forest, Open Space Act

Green Facts
An internet encyclopedia on environmental topics, including forestry. A better resource for middle school students.
   www.greenfacts.org/en/forests/index.htm

New England Society of American Foresters
   RI Chapter Newsletter

Oklahoma Forestry Services
A fun kids page that is user-friendly. Has fun games you can print out and share with your classroom.
   www.forestry.ok.gov/for-kids

Project Learning Tree
Designed to assist teachers with forestry curriculum by providing a plethora of information and activities that utilize critical thinking skills.
   www.PLT.org

Providence Water Supply Board
Provides information on the past, present, and future of forestry management in the Scituate Reservoir Watershed.
   www.ProvWater.com

Real Trees 4 Kids
An interactive website run by the National Christmas Tree Association. Offers activities, lessons, and games for grades K-12.
   www.realtrees4kids.org

Temperate Forest Foundation
Provides information that touches on a broad set of forestry topics, from simple Fun Facts to Forestry Management.
   www.forestinfo.org/Discover

Woodland Owner Resources
   Woodland Owner Literature & Resources

Woody B. Woodland's Story for Kids!
   "Working The Day Away"