Forest Inventory and Analysis - Data Uses

A number of groups rely on the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) for critical information about the sustainability of the Wisconsin's forests, including:

• State and national forest policy makers
• Department of Natural Resources foresters
• Private consulting foresters
• Forest industry members
• Environmental organizations
• Forest Service officials
• Scientists
• Journalists
• General public

FIA data play an important part in the efforts of these groups to:

• Formulate sound forest policy and assess the sustainability of current and past policies.
• Develop improved forest management plans and evaluate the effects of previous management practices on forestlands.
• Conduct scientific investigations that involve changes in forest ecosystems over time.
• Craft business plans that are both economically and ecologically sustainable.
• Keep the public informed about the health and sustainability of Wisconsin's forests.