Describes the history and formation of Russian forest policy, legislation, and management from the 8th century to the present time. The beginning of forest science in Russia is described. Advances in soil science, forest ecology, valuation, organization, and management, and the theory of forest use over historical time are discussed. Contributions of influential Russian leaders are described by field and time period. Russian forests comprise 22% of the world's total forests and over half of the world's coniferous forest area and world coniferous growing stock. Illustrated with historical photographs.