Over 42% of New Jersey's land area, or 2,132,000 acres (863,000 hectares), was forested in 2002. Of that total, 1,876,000 acres (759,200 hectares) were classified as commercial timberland, most of it privately owned. The forests of New Jersey are important for their function in conservation and recreation. Wood that is harvested contributes to specialty markets and quality veneer products. State forests cover 382,000 acres (155,000 hectares).