BEND, OR -- Central Oregon Forests are prominently featured in a new video series produced by Oregon's Department of Forestry. The "Forward Together" series is part of ODF's Federal Forest Restoration Program.

In the episode titled "Restoring the Backyard Forest," Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Chang explains how our local forestland is a critical part of our economy and ecosystem, "It provides important fish and wildlife habitat; it provides carbon storage to help us combat climate change. And, restoration represents an opportunity to employ hundreds of people in our community in keeping that forest healthy and resilient."

Other episodes highlight the work being done in other regions to restore the forests and balance the needs of fish, recreators, wildlife, watersheds and timber. Officials say it takes collaboration to manage the patchwork of state, federal and private forestland around Oregon. 

You'll find all four episodes at ODF's YouTube page.