Natural Resources

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Natural resources are elements such as forests, mineral deposits, or fresh water, which are necessary or useful to humans.  A natural resource’s value is derived through either an economic use or through its conservation for continued future access and public benefit.  Beneficial use and conservation of natural resources begins with an understanding of the complex balance of energy, ecosystems, and all living organisms. This interconnected web of life-support systems makes the sustainability of natural resources both a global and a local issue.  Rapid consumption, misuse, or degradation can deplete and destroy both renewable and non-renewable natural resources.

The Windham Region is fortunate to have a wealth of valuable natural resources. Extensive forested lands, prime agricultural soils, river valleys, upland streams, and wetlands create a diversity of ecosystems in the region that sustain numerous plant and animal communities in addition to supporting human habitation. These interconnected ecosystems, consisting of humans, animals, plants, earth, air, and water, can be sustained through careful resource use and conservation.

The Windham Regional Commission continues to assist Towns in planning efforts to protect these resources, collaborates with regional and state-wide organizations who are working in our region, and focuses on education as a means of promoting natural resource knowledge and protection.