The goal of this proposal is to determine what non-timber forest products and forest practices have potential for enhancing the economic benefit to owners of small forests in Southeast Ohio. The researchers will 1) identify promising non-timber forest crops that can be harvested in conjunction with existing steward-ship practices, 2) identify marketing options for the crops chosen, and 3) determine the interest among existing wood lot owners groups to include the crops identified in their forest management plan.Applications:The inclusion of economically viable non-timber forest crops in multi-use forest management will create new income opportunities in diverse markets - medicine, cosmetics, food, fibre and industrial products - for the 170,000 landowners of 10 acres or less in Ohio.
