Erie County owns and maintains several forested lands across the county for preservation and public enjoyment. The Erie County Bureau of Forestry was established in 1927 after the acquisition of several thousand acres of forest and non-forest land, much of it abandoned farmland, mainly in Concord, Holland, and Sardinia. The non-forested areas were planted with approximately 7.5 million seedlings of coniferous tree species, including red, white, and Scotch pine, Norway spruce, and larch, by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Erie County has more than 3,153 acres of forest land in 13 lots. Through natural regeneration, the forests are now approximately 45% hardwoods and 49% conifers, with the remaining acreage in wetlands and open field or scrub land that provides high value and diversity. The Bureau manages and protects these properties for multiple uses including forest management, recreation, water quality, wildlife habitat, wood products, and maple syrup production. Erie County also operates the Russell B. Fales Sawmill to process lumber products for use by county departments. The forests are an important renewable resource, providing soil stabilization, improved air and water quality, habitat for reptiles, birds, and mammals, and raw materials for lumber. Popular recreational activities include hiking, cross county skiing, snowmobiling on designated trails, horseback riding on designated trails, and picnicking. The Bureau of Forestry also offers tours and educational demonstrations for the general public, civic groups, and students of natural resources.