In forestry, what does reforestation refer to?

Reforestation refers specifically to the act of planting trees in areas that have been deforested or where the forest cover has been significantly reduced. This process is crucial for restoring ecosystems that have been lost due to logging, agriculture, or natural disasters, helping to promote biodiversity, improve air quality, and combat climate change by sequestering carbon. By reestablishing tree populations, reforestation also supports wildlife habitats and contributes to soil stability, thus enhancing the overall health of the environment. While the other options describe different aspects of forest management or utilization, they do not accurately capture the essence of reforestation, which is focused on the active restoration of forested areas through planting trees.