Value of Forest Ecosystem Natural Potential in the Areal Regional Richness Structure

Abstract Value of forest ecosystems’ natural potential is examined as composition of forest resources (timber and non-timber forest products) as natural capital. Also, value is examined as composition of environment-forming and social functions of forest objects as part of ecological potential of forest areas. Regional (national) richness includes all natural resources, all tangible and intangible assets made by nature and humanity in this region. By calculation results, value of forest resources (natural capital of forest ecosystems) is about 12-16% of total value of forest site for commercial forests of Middle Ural. Value of ecological potential is about 84-88% of total. It grows to 92-96% for protection forests. Natural potential of forest ecosystems is comparable to production potential of agriculture, mining or power generation.