Approximately half of Kentucky’s 25 million acres is forested.  This forest land, largely privately owned, supports a timber industry that contributes $8.4 billion in direct economic contributions, $13.29 billion in total economic contributions, 26,068 jobs in the forest sector and an estimated 59,451 jobs overall.  The greatest need of this huge economic resource is better forest management.  The American Tree Farm System is a program for woodland owners who are committed to sustainably managing their woods for wood, water, wildlife and recreation.  Each state program is run by a diverse group of partners, such as state agencies, non-profit organizations, volunteers, foresters and landowners. The Kentucky Tree Farm program works in conjunction with the Kentucky Forest Industries Association.  The Bell County ANR agent serves on the committee that oversees this program in Kentucky.  Currently there are 617 certified tree farms (23 of which are pioneer) in the state.  These farms are operated by 697 owners (27 of which are pioneer) and consist of a total area of 132,571 acres.  This is nowhere near the total forest acreage in Kentucky but it is a start.  The Kentucky Tree Farm program is producing long term impact on both forests and forest owners.