Non-Timber Forest Products
Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are materials produced from a forest other than timber (or wood products). In some forest types, forests can be managed for a diversity of NTFPs which consequently increases the biodiversity and economic variability of the forest. Materials such as consumable foods, florals and decorative materials, medicinal plants, and more can be managed for.
Integrating the cultivation of NTFPs into your current forest planning can often compliment other forms of management (e.g. timber). While the market for NTFPs in the United States is relatively new, this discipline is not novel and has been practiced by Native American cultures for centuries and continues today.
How can I do this on my property?
Medicinal Plants
Ginseng
Goldenseal
Black Cohosh
Shiitakes growing on hardwood logs in the forest.
Mushrooms
Shiitake
Nuts
Black Walnut
Other Foods
Who do I contact?
NC State Extension’s Herb/Specialty Crop Connection
Warren Wilson College Conservation Exchange Program, Dave Ellum (ask about their Guaranteed from Seed program!)
Western North Carolina Medicinal Herb Growers Group
Looking for more?
Invasive Species Control
There are several non-native invasive plants, pests, and pathogens that can be found in abundance throughout the forests of Western North Carolina. Determining how to manage your forest in a way that mitigates the threats from these species is crucial in ensuring the longevity and resiliency of your woods.
Fire Adapted Communities
Ecologically appropriate fire is important to forest health as it can promote native fire dependent species such as shortleaf pine, and limit the number of catastrophic wildfire events by reducing fuel loading. Additionally, ensuring preparedness for wildfire events is important for community resilience.
Wildlife Habitat
As a part of one of the most diverse ecoregions in North America, the forests in the greater Sandy Mush watershed are home to various wildlife groups such as neotropical migrant birds, large mammals, and the largest number of terrestrial snail species in the United States.