Economic Impacts of
Chestnut Carbon’s Forest Restoration Investments
Forest restoration as economic development
Forest Restoration Is Doing More Than Removing Carbon—It’s Generating Significant Economic Activity
Chestnut Carbon’s forest restoration investments are delivering substantial economic benefits to communities across the United States. Beacon Economics’ analysis finds that over four planting seasons, the company’s reforestation activities have supported approximately $79.6 million in economic output, 1,228 jobs, $34 million in labor income, and $13.1 million in fiscal impacts. As Chestnut’s operations have expanded across nine states, so too has their economic footprint, supporting businesses and workers involved in planting, forestry, land management, and related industries.
The economic benefits are accelerating. During the 2025–2026 planting season alone, Chestnut’s investments supported $30.7 million in economic output and 442 jobs, a 24% increase in output over the previous planting year. For every dollar invested in restoration activities, approximately $1.76 in total economic activity was supported, extending the benefits well beyond individual project sites. The findings demonstrate how investments in nature-based carbon removal can also serve as meaningful drivers of regional economic development, supporting jobs, local businesses, and government revenues.
Key Highlights
Economic Impact
Chestnut’s forest restoration activities have supported $79.6 million in cumulative economic output and 1,228 jobs across four planting seasons.
Growing Economic Returns
Economic output increased 24% in the latest planting season, with every $1 spent supporting approximately $1.76 in total economic activity.
Supporting Local Economies
Restoration investments now span nine states, generating $34 million in cumulative labor income and $13.1 million in fiscal impacts.
Expert Insights
Stafford Nichols
“Forest restoration is increasingly an economic development story as well as an environmental one. Our analysis shows how investments in reforestation support employment, generate business activity, and create meaningful economic benefits for communities across multiple states.”
~ Stafford Nichols MBA, MPP, PhD(c), Research Manager, Beacon Economics
Get the Full Report
Subscribe to
Our Publications
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest research, reports, and insights on economic trends and small business development.