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Although it is important to conserve and restore as much riparian forest as possible, it is also important that these forests are protected in continuous blocks. Unchecked development and sprawl has left “islands” of forest habitat throughout the Potomac River watershed. Such forest fragmentation impacts the biodiversity of these ever-shrinking ecosystems, affecting plants and animals alike, as well as water quality.
To prevent continued forest fragmentation, the Partnership has provided for the retention and permanent protection of certain forested areas under development by helping to create forest conservation ordinances administered by local governments. In addition, the Partnership has made presentations to landowners about protecting their forestlands through conservation easements and held a workshop about alternative logging to timber industry professionals in the watershed. The Partnership also continues to evaluate forest health threats from ozone, insects, and disease throughout the watershed.
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