Connecticut is more than 60% forested with a wide variety of plant types and trees. Over the last hundred years, since the inception of the state’s forestry program, state forests have grown to include more than 170,000 acres within thirty distinct state forest areas. Once used to educate landowners in forest management practices, state forests provide habitat for fish and wildlife, protect watersheds, afford many types of recreational activities, and support a forestry-based economy, including a spectacular fall foliage season.

The Department has instituted a number of programs over the years to protect our forest resources. Increasing importance has been placed on the efforts to maintain unfragmented forest blocks and preserve those areas of significant habitat value. To accomplish greater protection of Connecticut’s forest resources, the Department has added to state holding through acquisitions, conducted outreach sessions for private landowners who hold nearly 85% of Connecticut’s forests, and engaged in research efforts to monitor the health of our forests.

Contact the Forestry Division