What does the term "forest health" refer to?

The term "forest health" primarily refers to the overall condition of a forest in maintaining ecological processes and biodiversity. This concept encompasses various aspects of forest ecosystems, including the ability of the forest to support a wide range of plant and animal species, resilience to diseases and pests, and the forest's functionality in terms of processes such as nutrient cycling, water regulation, and carbon storage. By maintaining these ecological processes, healthy forests contribute to the broader environment and human well-being, promoting sustainability and resilience against climate change.

In contrast, other considerations such as recreational use or commercial value are important but do not encapsulate the comprehensive biological and ecological integrity that defines forest health. The age of trees may influence certain elements of forest dynamics but does not wholly represent the health of an ecosystem.