
Forest Inventory and Analysis
Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) is a systematic way of collecting and studying data about forests to understand their condition, composition, and health. It involves surveying a representative sample of forested areas to gather information on tree species, size, age, and growth, as well as environmental factors. This data helps forest managers, policymakers, and researchers make informed decisions about conservation, sustainable harvesting, and forest management practices. Essentially, FIA provides a detailed snapshot of forest resources over time, ensuring that forests are managed responsibly and their benefits are preserved for future generations.