2. FOREST MANAGEMENT TODAY.
In the past, forests were perceived by many as a never-ending supply of wood or, considering them in economic terms, huge factories generating large profits with comparatively low operating costs. Paying attention only to the economic side of the enterprise and neglecting biological ones produced, in many cases, disastrous and far-reaching effects because ruthless exploitation of forests resulted in deforestation, drought or forest degeneration reflected in ecosystem change and the dying out of numerous species of plants or animals which lost their habitat. Nowadays, forests are no longer seen as wood factories only, but complex ecosystems performing several different tasks such as preventing soil erosion and landslides, reducing air pollution, protecting wildlife habitats, promoting biodiversity or recreation. Forests have also positive effects on local climate and water cycle. They prevent floods, protect water resources, act as windbreakers, reduce temperature extremes. They are also a source of non-timber products, such as venison, fruit, medicinal plants or mushrooms.
