ISSUE 148: WEEK OF March 13th, 2023
Recent News

Regional News

  • MSU & UA Extension Forestry Launch Timber University Podcast
  • USDA Ask The Expert Article Features UF Extension Forester Discussing Tax Professionals
  • Kentucky Wood Expo on Sustainable Forest Products
  • Clemson Hosts Bobwhite Quail Workshops
  • Adaptive Silviculture for Climate Change Workshop Held in Kentucky
  • SGSF and USDA Forest Service Celebrate 25 Years of FIA Partnerships
  • Clemson & SCFC Host Forest Products Mills Bus Tour
  • NCSU Hosts Hands-On Workshop on the Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative
  • Clemson University Team Working to Develop All-Timber Structural Floor System
  • NC Urban Forest Council Announces Multiple Workshops in 2023 
  • Keeping Forests' Highlights Texas Forest Champion & Forest-Water Connection

National News

  • Submit Nominations for the Family Forest Education Extension 2023 Awards
  • Faces of the Forest Series from the Paper & Packaging Board Highlights Church - USFS Urban Forestry Partnership
  • NDA Releases Latest Deer Report for 2021-22 Hunting Season
  • USFS Offers New Online Course in Urban Forestry 
  • SAF and NCASI Open Registration for FIA National User Group Meeting 
  • Submit Abstracts for the 2023 SAF National Convention 
  • USFS Climate Change Resource Center Updates Learning Module on “Forest Carbon Science, Policy, and Management” 
  • 4th World of Congress of Environmental History Announces Call for Panel Proposals
  • New Project Combines Wood Cellulose & Concrete to Build Bridge
  • US Homes are Climate-Smart and Will Have More Carbon Stored in the Future 
  • Woman Forest Congress 2022 Underscores Catalytic Role of Women Stakeholders for Responsible and Sustainable Forestry.


Webinars

  • VA Land & Energy Navigator: Decision Support Tool for Balancing Nat. Res. Conservation & Econ Development
  • Integrated Pest Management for Urban Trees
  • Women’s Forest Congress Hosts Virtual Gathering
  • Woodland Stewards 2023 Landowner Webinar Series Focused on Open Woodlands
  • Lunch and Learn Webinar with Attorney and CPA Andrew Bosserman
  • Climate Change Adaptation Checklist for Climate Smart Projects: A Tool for Natural Resource Agencies
  • Biochar: A Look at Production, Benefits, and Barriers in Forested Lands



Funding Opportunities

  • USFWF Cumberland Plateau Stewardship Fund
  • NFWF Announces America the Beautiful Challenge RFP
  • USDA funding to Expand Conservation Assistance to Underserved Producers  
  •  2023 NFWF National Coast Resilience Fund
  • 2023 Enviva Forest Conservation NFWF Announces New RFP for Lower MS Alluvial Valley Restoration Fund
  • USDA AFRI Sustainable Agricultural Systems Request for Applications
  • Wood Innovations 2023 Grant Program
  • 2023 Sustainable Forest Initiative Community Grant
  • Watershed Protection/Water Resources Management Grants from Woodard & Curran Foundation 


Job Opportunities 

  • Texas A&M Forest Service - Two Staff Forester 1 Positions
  • Mississippi State University Recruiting Assistant/Associate Professor 
  • TN Division of Forestry Hiring Area Forester 3
  • TN Division of Forestry Seeking Interns 
  • USFS Agroforestry Natural Resource Specialist - Flexible Locations
  • UT Professor of Silviculture & Forest Management & Extension Specialist
  • Extension Specialist - Forest Management at NC State Extension Forestry 
  • Clemson Climate-Smart Ag & Forestry Multi-Position Hires
  • UGA Forest Finance Professor 
  • MS State University Extension/Assistant Professor of Forestry 
  • ABAC Assistant Professor of Forestry



Want to see all upcoming events in one place? Check out the SREF event calendar here!
Regional News
MSU & UA Extension Forestry Launch Timber University Podcast
Mississippi State University Extension Forestry and the University of Arkansas Extension Forestry launched an online podcast, “Timber University,” in December 2022. Hosts Drs. Brady Self and Shaun Tanger created Timber University to address a variety of information and issues in forestry, ranging from best management practices, estate planning, site preparation, and more. Typical episodes will cover issues related to soil science, forestry, and timber management that will benefit forestry stakeholders such as forestland owners, foresters, and loggers. Timber University is one of a suite of podcasts, called “Natural Resources University,” which includes podcasts on timber, deer, fire, habitat, and fish. Natural Resources University is a collaboration between MSU, Purdue University, Iowa State University, and the University of Florida. To listen to the Timber University podcasts, click here. Access the Natural Resources University homepage here.
 
USDA Ask The Expert Article Features UF Extension Forester Discussing Tax Professionals
In a recent United States Department of Agriculture “Ask the Expert” article, Dr. Tamara Cushing, an Extension Forest Business Specialist from the University of Florida answered questions about advice for choosing a tax professional. Points covered included qualifications that a tax professional should have as well as important questions to ask of the tax professional before committing. The article further details the potential for special considerations, including finding a tax preparer that is familiar with their client’s business, and suggestions for finding a tax preparer. The full article can be read here.
 
Kentucky Wood Expo on Sustainable Forest Products 
The 2023 Kentucky Wood Expo has been scheduled for September 15-16 at Masterson Station Park fairgrounds in Lexington, KY. The University of Kentucky Forestry Extension will host a booth with activities and opportunities for attendees to learn about forests and the wood industry. The Wood Expo is designed to showcase the forestry industry in Kentucky to the public. Other activities at the Expo include making your own cutting board activity, learning about small-scale and full-size logging equipment, seeing live equipment demonstrations, watching college timber sports competitions, talking to equipment vendors, and much more. To learn more about the Expo, click here.
 
Clemson Hosts Bobwhite Quail Workshops
Join biologists from SCDNR, Clemson Extension, and Quail Forever as they discuss and showcase the management of Bobwhite Quail. The day-long programs will include morning classroom sessions and afternoon field sessions. Participants will learn about the natural history, biology, and management of bobwhites and other grassland birds. The first workshop will be held on April 29 in Bishopville and the second one on May 17 in Hemingway, SC. Participants can get SC Pesticide credits and SAF continuing education credits. To learn more about the workshops, click here.
 
Adaptive Silviculture for Climate Change Workshop Held in Kentucky
The University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Colorado State University, and the Northern Institute of Applied Climate Science (NIACS) recently held a climate change adaptation workshop in November 2022 in Kentucky. The meeting was held at the Robinson Forest, a research, education, and extension forest owned by the University of Kentucky, as part of the Adaptive Silviculture for Climate Change (ASCC) project. The ASCC Project is a collaborative effort between managers and scientists working to establish experimental trials across a network of diverse forest ecosystem types throughout North America as part of the larger Climate Change Response Framework, which provides a robust experimental and science delivery framework to develop, evaluate, and demonstrate adaptation strategies. At this workshop, land managers and scientists gathered to co-create a suite of adaptive experimental silviculture treatments in mixed-mesophytic forests present in the Robinson Forest that will be part of the ASCC project Network. In addition, participants worked together to develop specific management, research, and monitoring questions that can be addressed through the ASCC project. To learn more about the Kentucky event, click here. For information on the ASCC project, click here, and finally, to learn more about the Climate Change Response Framework, click here. 
 

 
SGSF and USDA Forest Service Celebrate 25 Years of FIA Partnerships
The Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF) member agencies and the United States Forest Service (USFS) Southern Research Station (SRS) recently celebrated twenty-five years of cooperative partnership in support of forest data collection and dissemination in the southern states following Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) protocols. The SGSF and USFS joint program often called the ‘tree census,’ started in 1997 when four SGSF member agencies – the Alabama Forestry Commission, Georgia Forestry Commission, Tennessee Department of Agriculture - Division of Forestry and Virginia Department of Forestry formed field teams to collect forest inventory data and provided it to the USFS SRS. By the end of 2000, 13 SGSF member agencies of southern states had crews to help collect and share FIA data. FIA data is critical to the management of our nation’s forests and is considered the most reliable national forest inventory data and is used by researchers, partners, and other stakeholders. To learn more about the SGSF and USFS SRS partnership, click here.

Clemson & SCFC Host Forest Products Mills Bus Tour
The Clemson Extension Forestry & Natural Resources team and the SC Forestry Commission are hosting a day-long bus tour of Candor Southern Pine Sawmill in Kershaw County, and Domtar Paper in Marlboro County, South Carolina. Procurement foresters and mill employees will guide groups through the full operation process from the arrival of wood to the transportation of finished products. This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in the process of converting wood into products. This tour will provide participants with a better understanding of wood processing mills and the specific requirements for wood in each product. This tour will take place on April 27th from 8 am to 5 pm, starting from Columbia, SC. For more information and to register, click here.
 
NCSU Hosts Hands-On Workshop on the Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative
North Carolina State University (NCSU) is hosting an introductory hands-on analytical workshop for technical and non-technical individuals interested in learning more about conducting sustainability and life cycle analyses (LCA) to assess and compare the environmental impact of alternative products. This workshop will focus on plant-based fibers used for hygiene tissue, packaging, textiles, and nonwoven applications. Course participants will get an overview of LCAs, learn about the stages of production or services, perform flow sheeting, develop a life cycle inventory and conduct a life cycle assessment with commercial LCA software. Participants leave with the commercial software loaded on their personal computers. This course is open to anyone who wants to be able to conduct an LCA and is especially beneficial to engineers and scientists, marketing and sales personnel, sustainability managers, government agency employees, and university employees. The workshop spans three days from 9 am – 4:45 pm from June 20-22. More information and registration can be found here.

Clemson University Team Working to Develop All-Timber Structural Floor System
New research at Clemson University is aiming to expand mass-timber use. A team of civil and environmental engineers, architects, and foresters are developing an all-timber structural floor system with the goal of creating a sustainable option for the construction of new buildings. Mass-timber buildings have the potential for renovation and reuse, thus giving them a longer life and decreasing wood waste in landfills. Researchers will focus on cross-laminated timber to create a floor system that spans 40 feet to reduce building costs by requiring fewer load-bearing walls and columns to give more flexibility to building designs. Current research is focused on increasing fire safety and acoustical performance of the floor system. Click here to learn more about the research.
 
NC Urban Forest Council Announces Multiple Workshops in 2023
The North Carolina Urban Forest Council is hosting workshops that touch on foundational skills in tree care, soil management and tree ordinances. There will be two “Carolina Canopy” workshops that focus on foundational skills of tree care will be held in Raleigh and Boone, NC, in March and October 2023 respectively. Registration is already open for both locations. A soil management workshop is planned for April 18th in Greenville, NC, and November 9th in Kannapolis, NC. Workshops are planned to cover tree ordinances, in Fayetteville and Statesville, NC, but dates have not been announced yet. To learn more about these workshops and/or to register, click here.
 
Keeping Forests' Highlights Texas Forest Champion & Forest-Water Connection
Keeping Forests, a coalition of diverse forestry stakeholders, recently featured an interview and video of "forest champion," Colin McDonald, a senior policy analyst from the Texas Water Foundation. Colin explained the essential roles of forests and the role they play in water availability in Texas. In addition, he explained the intrinsic relationship between Texas water and its forests. Watch the interview and read more here.
National News
Submit Nominations for the Family Forest Education Extension 2023 Awards
The National Woodland Owners Association (NWOA) in cooperation with the National Association of University Forest Resources Programs (NAUFRP) is now accepting nominations from educational institutions for the annual “Family Forests Education” Awards. Awards will be given to educational institutions who have delivered the most beneficial educational programming to forest owners within the past five years and include two categories-the Comprehensive Program and Individual Project. This year’s awards will be presented at a joint event of the NAUFRP General Assembly and the Society of American Foresters (SAF) national convention which will be held in Sacramento, CA from Oct. 25-28, 2023. Nominations are due by August 25. To learn more about the awards and nomination process, click here.

Faces of the Forest Series from the Paper & Packaging Board Highlights Church - USFS Urban Forestry Partnership
Faces of the Forest is a series of interviews and videos that showcase people responsible for sustainable forest stewardship around the country and is created by the Paper and Packaging Board. A recent feature in the series focuses on the Stillmeadow Community Fellowship Church located on the outskirts of Baltimore, Maryland. Pastor Michael S. Martin and church members, with support from educators, forest scientists, volunteers, and students have been managing a 10-acre patch of forest to use as a place of peace and learning. Stillmeadow Peace Park brings together educational and nonprofit groups for service projects within the park. The goal of the park is to create a healthy urban forest for learning and community building. They are doing their best to increase the health of their urban forest and to protect against disease and invasive species. Church and community leaders are working with United States Forests Service (USFS) scientists to collect data that captures the results of their urban forestry management and the community that is being built around this forest. Click here to watch this feature and to find other Faces of the Forest Videos. 

NDA Releases Latest Deer Report for 2021-22 Hunting Season
The National Deer Association (NDA) has recently released its 2023 Deer Report, which includes findings from the 2021-22 hunting season. NDA gathers data from state and provincial wildlife agencies, deer researchers and other sources to provide their “state of the deer” summary for hunters, landowners, natural resource professionals, and the media. The authors found that an average of 88% of White-tailed Deer harvests occur on private lands, with Texas having the highest rate of harvests on private lands (99%) and Massachusetts having the highest harvest rate on public lands (43%). The report includes data by state and summaries of antlerless deer harvest, buck age structure, and more. Read a summary of the report here, and access the full report.
 
USFS Offers New Online Course in Urban Forestry
The United States Forest Service (USFS) is now offering a new Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) titled “Nature in the City: Turning Knowledge into Urban Forestry Practices.” This free course was designed to assist urban foresters to learn about the many components that encompass the “transdisciplinary” field of urban forestry. The seven modules incorporate multiple aspects of urban forestry including urban design, forestry ecology, socioeconomics, communication strategies and more over the span of seven weeks. Each week includes different lessons with texts, videos, quizzes, self-reflection exercises, and peer discussion. Two live events will also be held to explore case studies to deepen the understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of urban forestry. A certificate of accomplishment will be issued to participants who complete the course. To learn more, or to enroll, click here.
 
SAF and NCASI Open Registration for FIA National User Group Meeting
The Society of American Foresters (SAF) and the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) have recently opened registration for the United States Forest Service (USFS) Forest, Inventory and Analysis (FIA) National User Group meeting to be held in Charlotte, NC on April 11-12. This meeting is designed to bring together partners and stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities for using data generated by the FIA program. For participants who cannot attend in person, meeting materials are provided a week prior and an opportunity to submit questions and comments is prepared in advance. For more information about the meeting, click here and to register, click here.
 
Submit Abstracts for the 2023 SAF National Convention
The Society of American Foresters (SAF) National Convention will be held in Sacramento, CA from October 25-28. This year’s theme is “Forestry: It’s in Our DNA,” with a focus on what it means to be a forester in the context of forestry’s proud legacy as well as its ongoing challenges and opportunities. SAF 2023 will bring together novel science and on-the-ground management techniques with a focus on public communication and community-building. Proposals for presentations are now being accepted. Presentation subject areas are based on three overarching criteria: general application, practice of forestry, and audience appeal. The deadline for abstracts for presentations, science flashes, organized sessions, panels, interactive discussions, seminars, and workshops is March 31. The deadline for poster abstracts is May 5. For more information, click here.
USFS Climate Change Resource Center Updates Learning Module on “Forest Carbon Science, Policy, and Management”
The United States Forest Service’s (USFS) Climate Change Resource Center has recently updated its learning module on “Forest Carbon Science, Policy, and Management.” This interactive learning experience was developed by the Northern Institute of Applied Climate Science (NIACS) and the Michigan State University Forest Carbon and Climate Program for anyone interested in forest carbon science. The module introduces carbon science, forest carbon policy and markets, and forest carbon management. Additional resources, and tools, are also available. Updates to the module include enhanced graphics, figures, and animations that were designed to increase comprehension and the retention of key topics. The module takes about 25 minutes to complete but additional time is recommended to explore outward links and the interactive features. Access the module here.
 
4th World of Congress of Environmental History Announces Call for Panel Proposals
The International Consortium of Environmental History Organizations (ICEHO) in partnership with University of Oulu and Biodiverse Anthropocenes (a program of University of Oulu) is planning the 4th Environmental History World Congress for August 19-23, 2024 in Oulu, Finland. The theme of this congress, which is held every five years, is “Transitions, Transformations and Transdisciplinarity: Histories beyond History,” and focuses on the arc of time and the importance of diverse approaches to solving contemporary problems. Proposals for panels must be submitted by April 3, 2023 and require the proposed format (traditional panel, roundtable, workshop, etc.), title, abstract as well as co-convenors’ contacts. A call for papers will be open on May 15, 2023. The conference details, panel and paper submission guidelines are available here.

New Project Combines Wood Cellulose & Concrete to Build Bridge
For the first time, cellulosic nano materials were mixed with concrete for building a bridge in Siskiyou, California. The pilot project is an example of how using cellulosic nano materials in concrete can yield extraordinary strength and make the construction process less harmful to the climate. The addition of cellulosic nano materials increased material strength by 20% and cut greenhouse gas emissions by one-third (33%). To learn about the project and the use of cellulosic materials in construction, click here.

US Homes are Climate-Smart and Will Have More Carbon Stored in the Future
Wood is the primary construction material for most houses in the United States and the wood used to build homes sequesters carbon over the long term. Since more than 90 percent of new single-family homes are built mainly with wood, their carbon storage capacity adds up. New carbon modeling research from United States Forest Service (USFS) scientists and partners shows that the current nearly half to over three-quarters of the carbon stored in wood products wood is used to build and maintain houses annually, likely to grow in all scenarios. To learn more about the pertinent research, click here.

Woman Forest Congress 2022 Underscores Catalytic Role of Women Stakeholders for Responsible and Sustainable Forestry
The Women’s Forest Congress defines itself as “a new, dynamic and inclusive forum to develop strategies, solutions and radical change for forests” going to a global platform of women forest stakeholders. The 2022 congress with about 500 participants from all over the world underscored the global importance of responsible and sustainable forest management for ecosystem services like clean air generation, purification of water, maintaining biological diversity and ensuring recreational use as well as women's participation in the forestry sector. The women's participation, leadership and catalytic role cannot be overstated in a time when the forests are facing the greatest challenges due to loss of forest resiliency, disrupted disturbances regimes, rapid urbanization, transformative market dynamics, climate change and lack of knowledge and trust on forest management techniques. According to a report, only 16% of stakeholders in the global forestry sector are women. To learn more about the World Forest Congress, click here.
 
Webinars
VA Land & Energy Navigator: Decision Support Tool for Balancing Nat. Res. Conservation & Econ Development
Learn more about a new tool created by Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCES) and partners that maps out prime farm land or forest land. This tool was created by VCES at the behest of their state legislature in less than six months! Join this webinar to learn how this tool was developed and how it can be used. The webinar will be held Monday, March 20th at 2 pm ET on the Forestry Webinar Portal. Find the link to the webinar here, where you can download a calendar link. Pre-registration is not required.

Integrated Pest Management for Urban Trees
Join Dr. Kevin Chase of Bartlett Tree Management services for a webinar on urban tree pest management titled “Integrated Pest Management of the Most Common Pests of Urban Trees” on March 22, 2023. The presentation will focus on the most common pests of urban trees and their management. Trees are an essential part of the urban landscape, and they provide a variety of ecological, economic, and social benefits such as protecting pedestrians from the summer heat, absorption of sound and pollutants and more. The services provided by urban trees are often disrupted by pest infestations, and protecting trees from pests is a critical part of urban tree management. Dr. Chase will discuss how to protect urban trees, what to watch for as early signs of pests, as well as management strategies. To learn more about the webinar and save a calendar link, click here. 

Women’s Forest Congress Hosts Virtual Gathering
The Women’s Forest Congress is hosting a virtual gathering to celebrate Women’s History Month on March 15, 2023, from 2-3:30 pm ET. The theme of the event is “the importance of storytelling” and will include a recap of the inaugural Woman’s Forest Congress meeting in October 2022 as well as an overview of the future of the group including a strategic plan and key priorities. To learn more and register click here.
 
Woodland Stewards 2023 Landowner Webinar Series Focused on Open Woodlands
The Woodland Stewards webinar series was created through a partnership of seven different forestry Extension programs from across the South and beyond. Now in its fifth year, this series will focus on open woodlands and will be held Tuesdays at 1pm ET. "Creating open woodlands to promote regeneration and development of white oak," will be held February 28th. The second webinar in the series is titled Wildlife Considerations when restoring oak/pine woodlands and features and will be held March 7th. The final webinar in this year's series is titled "Establishing and managing open pine-hardwood stands," on March 14th. Pre-registration is not necessary. Find all of these webinars on this page. Clicking on each individual webinar will allow access to a calendar reminder too.

Lunch and Learn Webinar with Attorney and CPA Andrew Bosserman
A free online lunch-and learn webinar will be hosted by Clemson Cooperative Extension to provide information on the seasonal topic of timber taxes. Attorney and CPA Andrew Bosserman will discuss “The Top Five Strategies Forest Landowners Use to Save Taxes.” The presentation will include different approaches to qualifying for capital gain taxation on timber sales to applying for reduced South Carolina property taxes. A Q&A will be hosted for webinar participants after the presentation. The webinar will be held Tuesday, March 14th from 12 pm – 1 pm over Zoom Meeting. Register here for the Timber Tax Webinar.

Climate Change Adaptation Checklist for Climate Smart Projects: A Tool for Natural Resource Agencies
The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and the National Adaptation Forum are hosting a webinar on the Climate Change Adaptation Checklist tool on Wednesday, March 15th at 3:00 pm ET. The checklist tool was developed by a team that includes the state fish and wildlife agencies from California and Washington, along with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the organization EcoAdapt. The checklist was created to help natural resource managers evaluate a project’s potential vulnerability to climate change before it is implemented and to aid in improving the design or finding suitable sites and reduce risks. In this webinar, presenters will discuss the checklist and share case study examples. Click here to register for the Webinar.


Biochar: A Look at Production, Benefits, and Barriers in Forested Lands
The US Forest Service (USFS) in partnership with the US Biochar Initiative and Southern Regional Extension Forestry (SREF) hosted a webinar on biochar in late Feb. 2023. Dr. Derek Pierson, a Research Soil Scientist at the USFS Rocky Mountain Research Station presented information on the production, benefits of biochar and barriers to overcome for the extension of biochar use in forest soil. To watch the recorded webinar and learn more about the benefits and barriers to using biochar, click here.
Interested in more webinars on-demand? Check out the Forestry Webinar Portal! Click here to subscribe.

Funding Opportunities
USFWF Cumberland Plateau Stewardship Fund
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) has recently released its 2023 Request for Proposals for the Cumberland Plateau Stewardship Fund. NFWF intends to award approximately $2 million in federal and private sector funding in support of projects aimed at restoring and enhancing critical forest, grassland, and freshwater habitats as well as increasing the voluntary adoption of conservation practices on working agricultural lands. Applicants are encouraged to prioritize projects that address co-benefits, such as practices benefiting wildlife while also sequestering carbon and/or improving water quality, as well as engagement with local communities and underserved landowners. Full proposals are due on April 13. More information can be found here.
 
NFWF Announces America the Beautiful Challenge RFP
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in partnership with the Department of the Interior, the Department of Agriculture’s U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has allocated $116 million for its “America the Beautiful Challenge” (ATBC) program and announced a request for proposals (RFP) for the 2023 funding cycle. Recently, the Department of Defense’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program has joined the NFWF as a federal partner. There are five different types of grants such as implementation grants, planning grants, Sentinel Landscape Grants, National Forest grants and Private Forests, Rangeland and Farmland Grants.  Funding will be provided in the following categories: conserving and restoring aquatic ecosystems (rivers, coasts, wetlands, and watersheds), terrestrial ecosystems (such as forests, grasslands & ecosystems important carbon sequestration), wildlife corridors, topics related to ecosystem & community resilience (flood, drought, and climate change) and expanding access to the outdoors, especially for underserved communities. are requested and RFPs are due on April 20, by 11:59 PM Eastern Time. To learn more about the ATBC and get instructions on how to submit the RFP click here.

USDA funding to Expand Conservation Assistance to Underserved Producers  
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently accepting project proposals that envision improving outreach to underserved producers, underserved communities, and opportunities for students to pursue careers in agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is offering up to $70 million for two-year projects that encourage underserved communities’ and urban and small-scale producers’ participation in NRCS programs.  Proposals are due April 27, 2023. To learn more about the application procedure, click here.

2023 NFWF National Coast Resilience Fund
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) recently announced the release of their 2023 National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) Request for Proposals (RFP). The goal of the NRCF is to strengthen the natural infrastructure to protect coastal communities from the impact of climate change while enhancing habitats for fish and wildlife. The Department of Defense (DoD) Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program, in partnership with the NCRF, will distribute funds to coastal resilience projects to strengthen and restore natural infrastructure. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, state and territory organization government agencies, local and municipal governments, tribal governments and organizations, education institutions, and commercial (for-profit) organizations. Applicants are strongly encouraged to coordinate with local military installations before applying. Pre-proposals are due on April 12th. For more information, click here.
2023 Enviva Forest Conservation NFWF Announces New RFP for Lower MS Alluvial Valley Restoration Fund
Approximately $1.4 million will be awarded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) for projects that restore, enhance and maintain bottomland hardwood forests and wetlands; implement conservation practices on working agricultural lands; and promote aquatic connectivity. Full proposals are due Thursday April 6, 2023. An applicant webinar will be held Feb. 15 at 3pm ET. Register for the webinar here. Find more information about this request for proposals here.

USDA AFRI Sustainable Agricultural Systems Request for Applications
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agriculture and Food Research Initiative’s (AFRI) Sustainable Agricultural Systems grant program is now accepting applications. Applications must focus on approaches that promote transformational changes in the US food and agriculture system. The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is seeking creative applications for projects that will significantly improve the supply of affordable, safe, nutritious, and accessible agricultural products and foster the development of rural prosperity. A Letter of Intent is a prerequisite for an application submission. For more information or to apply, click hereThis grant program closes Thursday, July 13, 2023.

Wood Innovations 2023 Grant Program
The US Department of Agriculture's Forest Service recently announced that $41 million will be available through the 2023 Wood Innovations Grant and 2023 Community Wood Grant Programs. These programs are designed to spark innovation and create new markets for wood products and renewable wood energy. The application deadline is March 23, 2023 for both programs. To find more information on the program, click here.Connect to your regional Wood Innovations program coordinator for any questions or to discuss grant ideas. For the southern region (USFS region 8), Marcus Taylor is the Wood Innovations Grant coordinator and he will answer any questions, discuss proposal ideas and/or review drafts by March 1. He can be reached at Marcus.taylor@usda.gov.


2023 Sustainable Forest Initiative Community Grant
The Sustainable Forest Initiative (SFI) is now accepting requests for grant proposals. This grant program is geared toward community-based projects led by local partners, that support SFI’s mission to advance sustainability through forest-focused collaborations. The SFI Community Grants support SFI’s goal of increasing the understanding of the values and benefits of sustainably managed forests. Applications for this grant must be submitted by an SFI Implementation Committee (SIC) or non-profit organization. Projects submitted by non-profit organizations must include a SIC or SFI Certified Organization as an active project partner. Apply for this grant through the online form by March 17th here.

Watershed Protection/Water Resources Management Grants from Woodard & Curran Foundation 
The Woodard & Curran Foundation is seeking proposals for projects that focus on the protection and/or management of watersheds and groundwater supplies in the face of climate change. Projects may include (but are not limited to) management through forestry, fire prevention, or remediation of impacted watersheds. One $100,000 Impact Grant will be awarded with a one-year period of performance. The deadline for submissions is March 15th and the award will be announced in July. This grant is open to non-profit organizations that have 501(c)(3) designation, do not discriminate based on race, age, ancestry or national origin, sexual orientation, gender, disabilities, or religion and are not political organizations. To find out more or apply, click here


Job Opportunities
Texas A&M Forest Service- Two Staff Forester I Positions
Texas A&M Forest Service is recruiting two Staff Forester I for its Lufkin, and Huntsville, TX locations. Staff Foresters will provide scientific know-how to partners and stakeholders related to the forestry industry on the establishment, growth, productivity, and sustainability of forest resources. A bachelor’s degree in forestry with an emphasis on forest management is one of the application requirements. Successful applicants should demonstrate a strong command of southern forestry and have strong skills in communication, problem-solving & project management. These positions require the ability to work independently and in outdoor settings. To learn more about the requirements, application deadline and submission procedure for the Lufkin position, click here and for the Huntsville location, click here.

Mississippi State University Recruiting Assistant/Associate Professor
The Department of Forestry under Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi is accepting applications for a full-time,12-month, tenure-track Assistant/Associate Professor with Extension (87.5%) and Teaching (12.5%) responsibilities. The selected candidate is expected to start on July 1, 2023. The minimum requirements include a Ph.D. specializing in forest productivity/forest ecology/forest ecosystem services; however, at least one forestry degree is required. The successful candidate will participate in and develop excellent regionally, nationally, and globally relevant forestry extension programs on forest productivity. The screening of applications will start on April 7, 2023. Mississippi State University is an R1 and land grant university located in Starkville, a beautiful college town in northeast Mississippi. To learn about the position and application procedure, click here.

TN Division of Forestry Hiring Area Forester 3
The Tennessee Division of Forestry is hiring an Area Forester 3 for Marion County, TN. The Area Forester is responsible for all division programs in their area of responsibility. Specific job duties include planning, program development and implementation, fiscal administration, and supervision of 1-3 Forest Technicians. Programs include private forest management, forest protection and health, water quality, urban forestry, and forest industry promotion and assistance. Area forester works under the direct supervision of the District Forester. A copy of a transcript must be attached to the application. Additional information and application can be found here

TN Division of Forestry Seeking Interns
The division of Forestry under the department of agriculture, Tennessee is seeking five forestry interns for Summer 2023- in a variety of areas and locations. The application deadline for all the positions is March 24, 2024. To learn about the specific roles, requirements, and application procedure visit the Tennessee forestry division career page here.

USFS Agroforestry Natural Resource Specialist-Flexible Locations
Applications from US citizens or nationals are requested for the position of USFS Agroforestry Natural Resource Specialist. This is a senior expert position in agroforestry who will work at USDA National Agroforestry Center housed at US Forest Services Headquarters and provide expert guidance to formulate plans and policies and coordinate or develop annual and multi-year programs. The minimum requirements for applying to this position include bachelors or higher educational degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. To learn more about the duties, requirements, and qualifications, click here. If you have any queries, please email Anne Marsh.

UT Professor of Silviculture & Forest Management & Extension Specialist
The Institute of Agriculture, School of Natural Resources at the University of Tennessee (UT), is recruiting a 12-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Silviculture and Forest Management. The position will provide leadership in statewide forestry and silvicultural planning, implementation, evaluation or reporting and work with UT researchers as well as maintain excellence in teaching, research, extension work and mentoring students. The incumbent will be expected to produce research and Extension publications. The review of applications will begin on March 24, 2023. To learn more about the position, click here.
North Carolina State University (NCSU) - Extension Forestry is seeking applicants for an Extension Specialist-Forest Management position. The required educational qualifications are MS or higher degree in forestry, natural resources, or related field. Additional qualifications include applied knowledge and experience in forestry and silviculture as well as having ability to plan, conduct and evaluate the participatory non-formal education program on forestry. Preferred qualifications include having an educational degree from a Society of American Foresters (SAF) accredited institution and being a registered forester in NC. To learn about detail requirements and application procedure click on here.

Clemson Climate-Smart Ag & Forestry Multi-Position Hires
Clemson University is seeking to hire an interdisciplinary group of research scientists, graduate students, and technicians to implement the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Climate Smart Commodities program to incentivize landowners to adopt climate smart practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance carbon sequestration in agricultural and managed forest ecosystems. Successful applicants will be located at Clemson’s Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science in Georgetown, SC as part of the Tom O’Halloran Lab.  Potential start dates for all positions will be in late Spring or Summer 2023.
Forestry specific jobs:  
·       Tower Project Manager to coordinate installation and operation of six new eddy covariance towers in managed forests
·       Tower Technician to deploy sensors and operate six new eddy covariance towers in managed forests
·       Postdoc to analyze eddy covariance data from six new towers in managed forests.
·       Ph.D. Student to study carbon dioxide removal (carbon sequestration) in managed forests and helps develop Measurement, Monitoring, Reporting and Verification methods in forest carbon projects.
·       Undergraduate Summer Interns (2) to conduct forest surveys in forest carbon sequestration projects. Housing will be provided at the Baruch Institute as part of the UPIC Program.
Agriculture:  
·       Lab Technician, Soils to conduct laboratory analyses of soil carbon stocks among other soil properties.
·       Field Technician, Greenhouse Gases to deploy high tech chambers and gas analyzers to quantify soil greenhouse gas fluxes. 
For more information or to apply, click here.
 
UGA Forest Finance Professor 
The Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia (UGA) invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Forest Finance. They will hire an Assistant Professor/Associate Professor/ Professor whose appointment will include: engagement in research (60%), teaching (33%), and professional service (7%). The candidate needs to be highly committed to developing or has already established a nationally and internationally recognized research and teaching program in forest finance and/or closely related areas. For more information, click here

MS State University Extension/Assistant Professor of Forestry 
Mississippi State (MS) University is seeking an Assistant Professor of Forestry. This is a 12-month, tenure track position with a 100% Extension appointment. The incumbent will be responsible for developing a science-based Extension forestry program that addresses longleaf pine restoration and general forestry educational needs. Applications for this position (located in Biloxi, MS) will be reviewed as they come in and the incumbent could start as early as March 1, 2023. Click here to learn more or apply. 

ABAC Assistant Professor of Forestry
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) is seeking an Assistant Professor of Forestry. This is a 10-month, tenure-track position (Assistant Professor rank) or 10-month non-tenure track position (Lecturer rank). The successful candidate will teach undergraduate forestry courses, develop partnerships, improve course content, and more. This position is located in Tifton, GA. Applications should be submitted by March 17th. Click hereto learn more.
Upcoming Events:  

March 21-23 | Nacogdoches, TX
Biennial Southern Silviculture Conference
Registration is now open for the 22nd Biennial Southern Silvicultural Research Conference (BSSRC). The BSSRC provides a forum for scientists and practitioners broadly engaged in southern silviculture to report their study results, present new concepts and techniques, discuss topics of mutual interest, coordinate cooperative efforts, and stay current on developments in the field. Anyone who works in, or is interested in, silviculture is encouraged to attend. Click here to learn more or register.

March 27-29 | Chicago, IL
2023 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference 
The 2023 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference will bring together public and private sector educators, crop insurance agents, lenders, and other agricultural professionals to share ongoing and emerging successful risk management education efforts that target agricultural producers and their families. This conference will be held March 27-29 in Chicago, IL. More information will be available at a later date. Click here to view the Save The Date for this conference.

April 11-13 | Charlotte, NC
2023 FIA National User Group Meeting Announced 
A save-the-date for the 2023 Forestry Inventory Analysis (FIA) national user group meeting has been announced. The meeting will take place April 11-13 in Charlotte, NC. Meeting organizers are planning for two full days of presentations and engagement opportunities. Registration information will be made available at a later date. 

April 16-19, 2023 | Arlington, VA
ANREP Public Issues Leadership Development Conference
The 2023 Public Issues Leadership Development Conference will allow participants to learn about the structure and funding of Extension, learn and practice leadership skills, meet with federal partners, and explore national priorities and funding streams. The conference is open to all Extension professionals in 1862, 1890, and 1994 institutions.

April 26-28 | Williamsburg, VA
Save the Date: 2023 Virginia Forestry Summit 
The 2023 Virginia Forestry Summit was recently announced. The Summit will take place April 26-28 in Williamsburg, VA. Registration and additional details will be available in February. Click here to view the Summit website. 

May 15-16 | Athens GA
2023 Georgia Climate Conference
The Georgia Climate Conference aims to support and accelerate Georgia’s efforts to take practical steps to minimize the risks and maximize the opportunities associated with a changing climate. The conference will bring together attendees representing multiple sectors and areas of expertise to collaborate, raise awareness of work across the state, highlight progress, and identify opportunities to do more. The conference will take place May 15-17 in Athens, GA. Click here to learn more. 

May 16-18 | Tyler, Texas
7th Fire in Eastern Oak Forests Conference
The Oak Woodlands & Forests Fire Consortium, the Consortium of Appalachian Fire Managers and Scientists, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department are hosting the 7th Fire in Eastern Oak Forests Conference. The meeting will take place May 16-18 from 8 AM to 5 PM ET in Tyler, Texas. This event occurs once every three to five years, and more information will be provided at a later date. Click here to learn more.

July 28-30 | Jekyll Island, GA
Annual Conference of Georgia Forestry Association 2023
This year’s GFA conference brings together the largest and most diverse gathering of forest stakeholders in Georgia including landowners, investors, professionals, and forest product manufacturers in the U.S. To learn more about the conference and stay up-to-date, click here.
  
October 16-20 | Washington, DC
World Forum on Urban Forests
The World Forum on Urban Forests (WFUF) is seeking presentation and poster abstracts for the second WFUF meeting. The 2022 WFUF meeting will cover three main themes: Healthy Cities, Inclusive-Cities, and Resilient Cities. The Forum is intended for a wide variety of participants, including foresters, urban planners, and policymakers. The Forum meeting will take place October 16-20 in Washington, D.C. Click here to learn more. 
 
December 11-12 | Athens, GA
14th Southern Forestry and Natural Resource Management GIS Conference
The University of Georgia and the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources is inviting researchers and professionals in forestry and natural resource management to a conference devoted to issues and advances in the use of geographic information systems (GIS) and related mapping and spatial technologies. A call for presenters and posters is now available. Click here to learn more.

Southern Regional Extension Forestry | www.sref.info | lboby@sref.info