Because of its importance to wildlife, water resources and the northern environment, muskeg is no longer considered wasteland. When managed properly, organic soils on peat have excellent capability for agriculture and forestry. Peat products have long-established uses in horticulture, and there is renewed interest in peat as an alternate energy source. Peat provides raw materials for the chemical industry (resins, waxes, paints, etc) and can serve as an efficient filter for some hazardous wastes.