Webinar Spotlight ⭐

Leveraging the Unique Position of The Forestry Sector in the Carbon Sphere

In this on demand webinar, the Westervelt Company’s Sustainability and Government Relations team shares insights into how a private land management company is navigating the realm of carbon in today’s markets and socio-political climate.

New Virtual Reality Simulator from UGA and Clemson Shows Storm Surges & Their Impacts

“Weather the Storm,” a virtual reality (VR) simulation that takes users through the effects of storm surge to communicate its devastating and sometimes fatal consequences, is now available for download. Weather the Storm will help coastal residents experience and visualize the severity of hurricanes and encourage them to evacuate when instructed to do so by local emergency management. This simulation was collaboratively developed by the University of Georgia (UGA), Clemson University, Georgia Sea Grant, South Carolina Sea Grant and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Read a news article about the simulation by UGA Today here. Access Weather the Storm here.

MSU & USFS Release New Edition of Wood ID App for Central America

Through the collaborative efforts of Mississippi State University (MSU) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Forest Products Laboratory, a new wood identification app for Central American species has been developed. The app, WhatWood? Central America Edition, is the ultimate interactive pocket guide that provides detailed species descriptions of 373 woods, an interactive identification key, an illustrated introduction to anatomical wood identification including a step-by-step guide to specimen preparation and hand lens technique, and two quiz modes to hone user skill in recognizing anatomical features. It is available on both iOS, found here, and Android, found here.

New USFS Research on Private Lands and Oak Sustainability in Eastern U.S. Forests

A recent publication by scientists at the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) examines the long-term sustainability of oak populations on managed public and private lands in the eastern United States. Oak ecosystems historically dominated eastern hardwood forests and provided significant ecological, economic, and aesthetic benefits. However, shifts in forest composition, which contributed to factors including fire suppression, climate change, land use changes, and management practices, have led to a rise in shade-tolerant, mesophytic species like maples. These shifts have implications for biodiversity and ecosystem function as oaks are gradually replaced by species that have different ecological roles. Using the LANDIS PRO forest landscape model (a landscape model that predicts forest composition and structure changes at regional scales), the researchers analyzed how current and alternative management practices on public and private land can influence the balance of oak and maple species over a 150-year period. Alternative management strategies, including increasing the use of shelterwood harvests and thinning, can foster a more diverse range of oak size classes and reduce maple competition. To read more click here.

Mill Market Platform Coming Soon to the South

Mill Market is an innovative platform designed to streamline the urban wood supply chain by connecting tree care companies, municipalities, and mills. By logging available wood inventory, sellers can efficiently match their logs with buyers who need quality urban wood for higher-value products. The platform also arranges transportation, ensuring logs reach buyers, sometimes even across state lines. Originally launched in the Northeast, Mill Market is now expanding into the southern U.S. to increase log utilization and enhance the sustainability of urban wood markets. To learn more about the app, reach out to Paul Timmins or Mike Preminger. Find the current Mill Market tool here.

Fire Exclusion Alters Longleaf Forest Evapotranspiration

In an article published by the Jones Center in the Ecological Society of America (ESA) Journal, researchers examine how fire exclusion impacts evapotranspiration (ET) in longleaf pine woodlands. Using a comprehensive water budget approach, the study compares frequently burned plots to those where fire has been excluded for 15-20 years across mesic and xeric soil conditions. Results show that fire exclusion leads to significantly higher midstory transpiration but affects total ET differently depending on site moisture. The findings underscore the role of prescribed fire in regulating forest water use and optimizing water yield in fire-dependent ecosystems. Read the full article here.

UGA Researchers Study How Sustainability- as Described in Various National Forests’ Plans Could be Assessed

A recent research paper from the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia (UGA), titled “Sustainability language found in forest plans and its mathematical modeling potential”, has been recently published as open access. The research paper presents findings on how or if sustainability could be measured or modeled as it is described in various in U.S. National Forest plans. In many or most U.S. National Forest Plans, there are various statements or descriptions about potential sustainability of forest systems are included, however, assessing these statements is difficult. Researchers distributed an online survey to Society of American Foresters (SAF) members to ask them about their opinions on the feasibility of measuring outcomes from these statements Results revealed that only 3 out of 15 statements from the sample were deemed to have relatively mature or firm methodologies and data to enable inclusion in modern mathematical models for land use optimization. In contrast, sociocultural and ecological statements regarding sustainability were perceived to be more difficult to translate into mathematical modeling efforts. Read the full research paper, published by Springer Link, here.

VT-USFS Share January 2024 Housing Reports

Virginia Tech (VT), Virginia Cooperative Extension, and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) produce a free monthly report on the state of the housing market and more. The reports are intended to help gauge future business activity. Topics covered include (but are not limited to) new housing starts, housing scorecards, housing under construction, new housing sales, construction sales, etc. All past housing reports are archived here. The main section and table of contents for the most recent report can be found here, and the economic conditions section can be found here.

New Assessment Scale for Evaluating Advocacy Capacity in Extension Networks

New research from the University of Georgia and partners introduces a practical assessment scale to measure advocacy capacity within international agricultural extension networks. This study applies Lewin’s Organizational Change Theory to identify five key factors, support, integration, influence, performance, and visibility, that determine how effectively extension networks advocate for agricultural development. The scale helps networks set measurable goals, strengthen collaboration, and enhance their influence with policymakers. By using this assessment, extension professionals can improve their strategic advocacy efforts and provide better support to rural communities. Read more about this research here.

Forest Landowners Foundation Releases New Forest Sustainability Assessment Tool

The Forest Landowners Foundation (FLF), in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) developed “Forest Factor,” a new assessment tool designed to evaluate the sustainability of forests by measuring their environmental, economic, and social benefits. This tool utilizes an interactive map to provide data-driven insights into the health and resilience of U.S. forestland. By measuring six key sustainability factors, including forestland area, carbon storage, wildlife diversity, and community investment, Forest Factor provides data-driven insights to support informed decision-making and ensure the long-term resilience of the nation’s forests. Users can engage with the map by selecting hexagonal units to view detailed sustainability scores, filtering specific characteristics to analyze different aspects of forest health, and toggling timber market activity as a reference layer. Learn more about the tool here.

NAFO Updates Interactive Forest Carbon Data Visualization Tool

Forest Carbon Data Visualization is an interactive tool that visualizes the role of U.S. forests in carbon sequestration and storage. Developed by the National Alliance of Forest Owners (NAFO) with data analysis from National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) and insights from the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), this platform makes complex carbon science accessible. The latest update includes refreshed Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) data for greater accuracy, simplified explanations for newcomers, and a new sustainability module exploring how forest age impacts carbon storage. Learn more about this tool here.

National Hurricane Center Sets a New Record for Forecast Accuracy in 2024

In an article published by Yale Climate Connections, it was reported that the National Hurricane Center (NHC) set an all-time record for forecast accuracy in 2024, providing highly precise predictions during a particularly active hurricane season. This achievement was the result of years of research investments, particularly through the Hurricane Forecast Improvement Project (HFIP), which helped reduce forecasting errors by nearly 50% since 2007, saving lives and billions in damages. However, proposed budget cuts could reverse these advancements by reducing funding for NOAA’s hurricane research. Despite these risks, recent studies suggest that improved forecasts from 2024 alone have resulted in over $10 billion in savings, underscoring the critical importance of continued investment in hurricane research as climate change intensifies storms. Read the full news article here.

Call for Submissions: Special Issue on Digital Modeling for Sustainable Forestry

A special issue, "Digital Modeling for Sustainable Forest Management", is now open for submissions in Remote Sensing. This issue aims to explore the latest developments and applications of digital modeling in forestry, leveraging cutting-edge remote sensing tools and geospatial technologies to promote sustainable forest management practices. Topics of interest include 2 and 3D forest ecosystem mapping, digital twin frameworks, automated stand delineation, and more. Submissions are due by September 15th. Learn more about this special issue and submissions here.

How Companies Avoid Greenwashing Lawsuits

In a recent blogpost from the non-profit “Two Sides North America,” which focuses on the sustainability story of print, paper and paper-based packaging they explore how businesses increasingly recognize the importance of environmentally friendly practices, especially when it comes to packaging, proper disposal and recycling, and using truly sustainable materials like paper. The blog post covers how companies are becoming more cautious about how they communicate these initiatives. Amid a rise in greenwashing lawsuits, where businesses are accused of overstating or misrepresenting their environmental efforts, many companies are shifting to a more subdued approach. This change reflects not only legal caution but also a growing demand for transparency and adherence to credible standards. To read more click here.

March 25 | 3:00PM

Wildlife Damage Management Series: Vexation of (Cycling) Vole Species

March 27 | 12:00PM

A History of People, Forests, and Forestry Webinar Series

March 28 | 12:00PM

Intercultural Leadership Series: Best Practices for Virtual Engagement with Multicultural Communities

March 28 | 1:00PM

Planning & Delivering High Impact Webinar Series

April 1 | 2:00PM

Tribal Climate Resilience Webinar Series: How to - Scoping Climate Adaptation Efforts

Register here.

April 1 | 3:00PM

Wildlife Damage Management Series: IPM for Rodent Control: A Framework for Improving Effectiveness Against Wascally Wodents

April 2 | 3:00PM

Leveraging Geospatial Tools for Effective Environmental Planning: A Hurricane Helene Case Study

This webinar will include topics that incorporate geospatial tools in their research to investigate distinct environmental aspects linked to extreme climate events such as Hurricane Helene. The speakers will demonstrate how these tools can be applied to achieve shared environmental stewardship. Register here.

April 3 | 12:00PM

A History of People, Forests, and Forestry Webinar Series

April 3 | 2:00PM

SCIENCEx Fire: Fuels Treatments in Non-Forested Systems: Rangelands, Grasslands, Shrublands, and More

April 7 | 1:30PM

High Impact Short Videos: Moving from Awareness to Action

April 7 | 2:00PM

SCIENCEx Fire: Fuels Treatments in Non-Forested Systems: Rangelands, Grasslands, Shrublands, and More

April 10 | 12:00PM

A History of People, Forests, and Forestry Webinar Series

April 10 | 12:30PM

Working Lands for Wildlife East Region Series: Bobwhite Breeding Season Roost Site Selection in an Ag Landscape

April 10 | 2:00PM

SCIENCEx Fire: Science for Post-Fire Restoration

April 16 | 1:00PM

A Progress Report on Resistance Breeding in Forest Trees

April 17 | 12:00PM

A History of People, Forests, and Forestry Webinar Series

April 17 | 1:00PM

NOAA Science Seminar: Increasing the educational impacts through citizen science

Join this webinar to explore the importance of incorporating meaningful educational opportunities in citizen science programs. Register here.

April 24 | 12:00PM

A History of People, Forests, and Forestry Webinar Series

April 24 | 2:00PM

SCIENCEx Fire: Chapparal Fuels Treatments – Including California and Southwest Ecosystems

April 25 | 12:00PM

Intercultural Leadership Series: Opportunities and Barriers in Florida’s Higher Education for Underserved Children

April 28 | 3:00PM

Radio Success with Marine Science Minute

May 6 | 2:00PM

Tribal Climate Resilience Webinar Series: Session 2

Register here.

May 30 | 2:00PM

Intercultural Leadership Series: International Opportunities for Extension Professionals

June 3 | 2:00PM

Tribal Climate Resilience Webinar Series: Session 3

Register here.

July 1 | 2:00PM

Tribal Climate Resilience Webinar Series: Session 4

Register here.

September 8 | 1:30PM

Leveraging Podcasts in Agricultural and Natural Resources Communication and Outreach

Cumberland Plateau Partnership Coordinator (Grand Rapids, MI)

The White Oak Initiative is currently seeking a Cumberland Plateau Partnership Coordinator to play a central role in identifying, connecting, convening, and leveraging white oak conservation and management efforts across the Cumberland Plateau. This is a multifaceted position that encompasses a range of key responsibilities, all geared towards fostering effective collaboration and enhancing white oak conservation across this specific geographical region. The minimum qualifications for this position are a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and at least two years of relevant experience. The deadline to apply is April 1st. Read the full posting and apply here.

Digital Forestry Extension Specialist (Purdue Univ.)

The Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at Purdue University is seeking a Digital Forestry Extension Specialist. In this role, the successful candidate will develop and implement outreach, demonstration and training programs, using both in-person and virtual formats and a variety of media, on topics including digital forestry and natural resources techniques, equipment, and data management and processing for resource managers and other professional audiences, including extension educators and specialists. This is a 3-year grant funded position through March 31, 2028. The minimum qualification for this position is a master’s degree in forestry or a related field. Apply here.

Forestry Education Coordinator (Oregon State Univ.)

The Division of Extension and Engagement’s Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) Extension Program at Oregon State University is seeking a Forestry Education Coordinator. This is a part-time, 12-month, professional faculty position. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and coordinating educational programs that connect people to forestry and the natural world. These efforts will include leading tours and workshops, recruiting and training volunteers, planning outreach events, and designing interpretive materials that promote forestry awareness and natural resource stewardship. The minimum qualification for this position is a bachelor’s degree in a natural science-related field, education, or a closely related field. Learn more and apply here.

Invasive Plant Tiered Training Postdoc (Univ. of Florida)

The University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Invasive Species Council seeks a detail-oriented and highly organized postdoctoral researcher to lead an interdisciplinary, interagency effort to develop a standardized curriculum for a new tiered training program in invasive plant management. This is a two-year position and is only open to candidates with a conferred PhD in invasive plant science and management, weed science, natural resource management, agricultural education, or a related field. Applications are due on March 31st. Read the full job posting and apply here.

Associate Dean and Director (NCSU Extension)

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at NC State University invites applications for the position of Associate Dean and Director, NC State Extension. The Associate Dean and Director leads NC State Extension at the state, regional, national, and international levels. The successful candidate must have a terminal degree in their area of expertise and meet the criteria for tenure as a full professor. Apply and learn more here.

Invasive Species Coordinator (Univ. of Florida)

The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Invasive Species Council seeks a detail-oriented and highly organized candidate to lead an interdisciplinary, interagency effort to develop a standardized curriculum for a new tiered training program in invasive plant management. This is a two-year position where the successful candidate will oversee program coordination, support tier leads, collaborate with UF faculty and stakeholders, assess existing resources, and develop new materials as needed. The minimum qualifications for this position are a masters in invasive plant science, forestry, or a related field or a bachelor’s degree in the same fields and 3+ years of experience. Download more information here.

Instructional Outreach Programs Administrator (Auburn Univ.)

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System seeks an Instructional Outreach Program Coordinator. This individual will plan, coordinate, deliver, and manage Extension educational services and programs to accomplish the GreenUP Alabama goals and objectives. The minimum qualification for this position is a Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to program. Learn more and apply here.

Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley Restoration Fund

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) recently release its call for proposals for the 2025 Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley Restoration Fund. This funding will award grants ranging between $150K- $1 million to support bottomland hardwood restoration and management, aquatic restoration, and conservation practices on working forest and agricultural lands within the lower Mississippi River alluvial valley. Full proposals are due Thursday, April 24, 2025. Although not required, applicants are encouraged to schedule a virtual meeting with NFWF program staff to discuss project proposals through Microsoft Teams, here. Learn more about this opportunity here.

March 26 | Kenansville, NC

Forestry Landowner Summit

March 28-29 | Appomattox, VA

Central Virginia Woodland Owners Retreat

March 31-April 1 | Clemson, SC

Spring Longleaf Partnership Council Meeting

March 31-April 2 | Starkville, MS

AI in Agriculture Conference

April 1-3 | Nashville, TN

2025 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference

April 1-3 | Madison, WI

SAF Rising Professionals Conference

April 3 | Virtual

Applied Forest Finance Class

April 14-17 | Annapolis, MD

National Forum on Biological Control

April 15-16 | Gainesville, FL

2025 Spring Symposium: "Landscape and Working Lands Conservation"

April 15-17 | Atlanta, GA

Super South Summit

May 2-3 | Abingdon, VA

Southwest Virginia Woodland Owner Retreats

May 12-14 | Pittsburgh, PA

National Adaptation Forum

The National Adaptation Forum is a biennial convening for adaptation professionals to innovate, network, and focus on established and emerging climate adaptation issues of the day. The Forum provides opportunities for professional development through training sessions, facilitated presentations and panels, and formal and informal networking sessions. More information and registration will be posted here.

May 13 | Athens, GA

Artificial Intelligence & Advanced Tech Solutions for Eastern U.S. Forestry Conference

May 13-21 | Gainesville, FL

Summer School on Ambrosia Symbiosis

June 1-5 | Baton Rouge, LA

International Symposium on Biogeochemistry of Wetlands and Aquatic Systems

June 2-5 | Ames, IA

Artificial Intelligence & Advanced Tech Solutions for Eastern U.S. Forestry Conference

July 15-18 | Washington DC

The American Forest Congress Meeting

July 23-25 | Columbia, MO

North American Agroforestry Conference

August 6-8 | Nashville, TN

38th Forest Products Machinery & Equipment EXPO

September 5-6 | Providence Forge, VA

Southeast Virginia Woodland Owner Retreats

September 8-10 | Everett, WA

Joint IUFRO Small Scale Forestry and EKE Conference

September 9-11 | Asheville, NC

Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Symposium

October 23-27 | Lima, Peru

FLARE Annual Meeting

April 13-16, 2026 | Omaha, NE

National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration

The National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration (NCER) is an interdisciplinary conference on ecosystem restoration presenting state-of-the art science and engineering, planning and policy in a partnership environment. NCER brings together decision-makers, scientists, engineers, policy makers, planners, and partners actively involved in ecosystem restoration. Learn more here.

May 12-15, 2026 | Wilmington, NC

ANREP Conference

November 7, 2026 | Coimbra, Portugal

International Conference on Forest Fire Research