Forests NSW has released Ecologically Sustainable Forest Management plans for its native forests in the Western and Riverina regions and planted forests in the South West Slopes, Monaro, Central West and Northern Tablelands regions.

Forests NSW Forester Heath Frewin said the plans covering the next five years are intended to provide clear information to the people of NSW on how their forests are being managed. 

"The plans demonstrate Forests NSW commitment to sustainability as both a commercial enterprise and a land management agency, and are integral to maintaining certification under the internationally recognised Australian Forestry Standard," Mr Frewin said.

"The plans recognise that native and planted forests provide a wide range of benefits to the community and that their management should be based on sustainable management principles."

Mr Frewin said the plans covered management strategies for the maintenance of forest values such as biodiversity, soil and water quality, recreation, carbon storage and Aboriginal cultural heritage.

"These plans promote nature conservation and forest health, while sustaining timber production and economic and social development," he said.

The plans set out the broad strategies, performance indicators and measurable outcomes for forest management in each region during the next five years.

Mr Frewin said public submissions were incorporated into the final plans where appropriate.

"Forests NSW recognises that to be fully effective, it needs to continue to work in conjunction with the community and stakeholders," he said.

Copies of the plans can be found on the Forests NSW web site www.forest.nsw.gov.au/esfm/default.asp or in hard copy by contacting Forests NSW regional offices.

Media contact: Sarah Chester, (02) 6036 2110 or 0417 207 669