Vermont's Non-Timber Forest Products
Introduction
Across the world people rely on the natural environment around them for many things: food, medicine, crafts, shelter, etc. Although in the Western world we are quickly forgetting the importance of the natural resources that nature provides us with, many people still rely on nature for their basic necessities. Non-timber forest products are gathered all over the world, both to serve the individual, and to sell on a larger market. People from all walks of life gather NTFPs, from those just picking some berries on a hike for a snack to people who rely almost solely on these products for their food, medicine, or livelihood.
Much can be learned from these gatherers, because it is a great way to get closer to nature. They can teach us about sustainability and the preservation of the plants they work with. Even when gatherers use NTFPs to supply or supplement their income, thay are usually acutely aware of how much they can gather before they destroy a certain plant or even ecosystem. Thus, they are willing to sacrifice money in order to remain responsible stewards of the land. They know they have to treat nature well if they want to get the greatest benefits from it.
NTFPs are important for both their economic and cultural values. Because NTFPs are taken from nature itself, gathering can prove to be a great way to keep costs at bay because there is no need to pay the extra costs that come with getting the same product from a store. Also, gathering has important cultural value because it allows us to get back to our roots and live a simpler lifestyle, something people have largely forgotten in America.
Especially in rural areas where there is not so much commercial and mar...
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