Forests have always played a significant role in the life of South Carolinians. The many benefits that flow from the wooded acres that make up the predominant land cover of our beautiful state accrue to all our citizens, both rural and urban. Many who benefit take the enhanced quality and enjoyment of life for granted. However, those of us entrusted with the protection and development of the forest resources must not only redeem these responsibilities, but must also bring to the forefront and attention of each person the values of these benefits. The publication of South Carolina's FOURTH FOREST report is part of that effort. The report is the culmination of many people's work and careful thought. Much of the report concerns itself with projections based on the best estimates of what will occur. The reality of the future can be very different from the "word pictures" printed in these pages. The result could be more disappointing, but hopefully the Fourth Forest will be more beneficial for our succeeding generations.