Explain how your proposal would meet both the goal to improve biodiversity and the goal to harvest timber

To meet both the goal to improve biodiversity and the goal to harvest timber, a proposal would need to be carefully designed to integrate sustainable forestry practices that support the ecological balance while allowing for controlled timber extraction.

One way to achieve this is by using a method called selective logging which involves carefully selecting and removing certain trees while preserving the overall structure and diversity of the forest. This approach minimizes the impact on the forest ecosystem, as opposed to clear-cutting, which removes all trees in an area and can lead to loss of biodiversity and habitat degradation.

Another key element would be to implement a reforestation program, where new trees are planted to replace the ones that are harvested. This would ensure that the forest can regenerate and continue to provide habitat for wildlife, while also maintaining its role in carbon capture and water cycle regulation.

Buffer zones can also be created around sensitive areas such as waterways or known habitats for vulnerable species to further protect biodiversity. These zones remain untouched and act as reserves for wildlife and natural vegetation.

In addition, monitoring biodiversity before, during, and after logging activities helps in making informed decisions and adapting management strategies to mitigate any negative impact and promote a healthy ecosystem.

To ensure long-term sustainability, the timber harvest must adhere to strict guidelines that ensure the harvest rate does not exceed the forest's natural regeneration rate. This can be enforced through certification schemes, such as those provided by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which promote responsible forest management.