New Cohort of Instructors from Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Trained for National Youth Disaster Preparedness Program

My Preparedness Initiative (MyPI) has recently certified 21 Disaster Assessment and Recovery (DAR) Specialists from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service as instructors for a national youth preparedness program. This youth preparedness program, aimed at teenagers 13-19, combines leadership development with hands-on emergency training. The MyPI curriculum is based on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, which includes modules on disaster preparedness, fire safety, utility control, medical operations, light search and rescue, CERT organization, disaster psychology, and terrorism awareness. One of the program’s most impactful component is Prep +6, a family and community service project where students assemble an emergency supply kit and family communication plan for their own household and six additional families. Learn more about the MyPI program here.

UGA Warnell Outreach Hosts Short Courses on Longleaf Pine Management & Pine Straw Production

The University of Georgia (UGA) Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources is hosting two short courses on longleaf pine management and pine straw production in Tifton, GA. The workshop on long leaf pine management will address the various aspects of establishing longleaf pine, including site preparation (mechanical and chemical), seed source selection, seed availability/production, seedling quality and source, planting recommendations and post-plant herbaceous weed control. Additional topics will include pine straw raking, fertilization, growth and yield, hurricane damage on old-field vs. cutover sites, and prescribed burning. The course on long leaf pine management will be held August 18-19, 2025. The pine straw production course, which will be held September 16-17, 2025, will provide information necessary to effectively manage pine stands for pine straw. Find more information and registration details here for the long pine leaf management course and here for the pine straw production course.

TX A&M Agrilife Extension Releases New Factsheet on Grassland Decline

Texas A&M University’s Agrilife Extension’s West Texas Rangelands program released a new factsheet describing grassland decline. The factsheet, titled “Getting to the Root of it: Understanding Grassland Decline in a Drying World,” summarizes research from a 2023 study published in the Journal Plant Soils. Grasslands play an important role in sustaining life – from supporting wildlife to producing food for humans. The study revealed how extreme weather events and prolonged drought have put these vital ecosystems at risk and identified three key phases of grassland decline under increasing aridity and desertification, which are described in the fact sheet. This research highlights the importance of proactively monitoring grasslands and intervening before full degradation can take place. Read the factsheet here. Find out more about the West Texas Rangelands program here.

Virginia Tech–USDA Forest Service Release Housing Commentary for April 2025

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. The 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.

Clemson Releases New Report on Stumpage Price Trends in South Carolina

Clemson University Extension Forestry team’s new report, “Stumpage Price Trends in South Carolina for the Q1, 2025,” documented a sharp decline in hardwood pulpwood prices in the Lowcountry rather than the Upstate, highlighting a regional disparity in South Carolina’s timber market. Overall, pine and hardwood pulpwood prices were at their lowest this quarter compared to the previous three quarters across South Carolina. Additionally, a sudden drop in saw timber prices may reflect a mill reporting error or data anomaly, as prices at this level have not been observed in the region in recent years. To read more, click here.

Clemson Extension Publishes Stormwater Benefits Infographic

A new infographic from Clemson University Cooperative Extension, titled Treemendous Benefits for Stormwater, portrays the numerous beneficial ways that trees help to manage stormwater in urban environments. A few of these benefits include intercepting falling rainwater to allow for better infiltration into the soil, filtering pollutants to protect water quality downstream, and holding soil in place to prevent erosion during rain events. Additionally, the infographic identifies several South Carolina native trees that are recommended for stormwater benefits, including eastern redbud and overcup oak.

Download the infographic here.

USDA Extends Deadline for Hurricane Recovery

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has officially extended the Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) application deadline to August 4, 2025. Landowners have more time to apply for financial assistance to restore forestland damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Debby. Non-industrial private forest landowners in counties designated for disaster relief following Hurricanes Helene or Debby are eligible to apply; however, eligibility and practice approval are determined by the local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) office. To learn more about the EFRP program and the extension, click here.

IP Consolidates Operations in TX

In May, International Paper (IP) announced plans to consolidate its operations in the Rio Grande Valley area of Texas. IP will convert its Edinburg, Texas sheet plant into a warehouse and also close its box plant located there. The company will instead invest capital in its McAllen, Texas facility to enhance capabilities, as well as relocate its Reynosa, Mexico operations to a more modern site currently under construction. IP reiterated that its restructuring demonstrates its long-term investment in the Rio Grande Valley. Read the full press release here.

SGSF Presents Top Regional Awards in Forestry and Wildland Fire Management

The Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF) proudly celebrated a standout group of forestry professionals during the 2025 SGSF Awards Ceremony, held at the Annual Meeting in Biloxi, Mississippi. These annual awards bring together forestry leaders from across the region to recognize individuals and teams whose exceptional work is shaping the future of Southern forests. This year’s honorees represent the best of the profession: from cutting-edge wildfire modeling to long-term landowner support, from collaborative urban greening efforts to gold-standard field data collection. These award recipients embody the values of service, innovation, and dedication that lie at the heart of sustainable forestry in the South. To view the honorees, click here.

Clemson Extension Launches Statewide Extension Wildlife Damage Management Program

A new statewide Wildlife Damage Management Program has recently been launched by Clemson University’s Cooperative Extension Service. The program’s goal is to provide resources and science-based solutions for addressing human-wildlife conflicts in South Carolina. The program will be led by Clemson University’s Extension Wildlife Damage Program Director, Dr. Elizabeth A. Bradley, and two Wildlife Damage Extension Associates, Andrew Jamison and Jacob Murray. Through collaboration with state agriculture and natural resource agencies, program staff will address issues affecting agricultural producers, non-industrial private landowners, and community stakeholders throughout South Carolina. Find out more information about this program here. Learn more about the Clemson University Forestry & Wildlife Extension program here.

TN Sawmills Process Hurricane Helene Debris

Sawmills in Tennessee and other areas affected by Hurricane Helene are working to recycle trees blown down by Hurricane Helene to assist wildland firefighters while boosting domestic timber production. Many of the trees downed by the storm are usable, according to Johnny Evans, owner of Evans Lumber Co. in Manchester, Tennessee. About 6% of the lumber produced at his facility comes from trees that fell during natural disasters. Additionally, those downed trees can still hinder firefighting efforts by getting in the way of bulldozers used to create fire lines. To read more, click here.

USFS FPL Hosts 4^th Mass Timber Research Needs Assessment Workshop

The USDA Forest Service Forest Products Lab (FPL) will be hosting the 4th Mass Timber Research Needs Assessment Workshop November 4-6 in Madison, WI. Attend this event to share updates and ideas, to vote on research topics, and to shape the future of mass timber in North America and to tour the iconic Forest Products Laboratory. The purpose of the workshop is to prioritize mass timber research needs and topics. Past events included over 100 leaders, from academia, industry, government, and other organizations, to advance mass timber construction. They will be launching a survey in August to solicit research topics. To learn more about this event contact: Marco Lo Ricco marco.loricco@usda.gov and to find a flier about this event, click here.

Society of American Foresters Offers Discount on Urban Forestry Certifications

The Society of American Foresters (SAF) is offering 20% off the Certified Urban and Community Forester (CUCF) and Candidate Certified Urban and Community Forester (CCUCF) certifications to celebrate its 125th anniversary. The discount is valid through June 1, 2026, using the promo code “CERTIFIED125”. The CCUCF is intended for individuals with six months of applicable experience or no experience when paired with a related degree. Both certifications are designed for those pursuing careers in urban forestry. To read more, click here.

Nominations Open for NASF Achievement Awards

The National Association of State Foresters (NASF) Current Achievement Awards are presented annually to deserving individuals or organizations who have made outstanding, national-level contributions to the protection and sustainable management of America’s trees and forests. The NASF Awards Committee is now accepting nominations for the 2025 NASF Awards. The deadline for submissions is August 1, 2025. To nominate someone, click here.

Resource Wise Releases “Guide to Sustainable Aviation Fuels”

Resource Wise, which provides market information about forest products, pulp and paper, biofuels and more, released a new article that summarizes sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and potential changes for the future. SAF has become increasingly important as a potential fuel for the airline industry. SAF is derived from renewable resources, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% and its production follows strict sustainability criteria. The process ensures minimal impact on land use and biodiversity. This article provides an in-depth look at SAF, shedding light on its sustainability, production, cost, and regulatory requirements. To read more, click here.

July 1 | 2:00PM

Tribal Climate Resilience Webinar Series: Session 6

July 23 | 3:00PM

July 31 | 2:00PM

Leveraging the Treatment and Wildfire Interagency Geodatabase

Forecasting Daily Reference Evapotranspiration and Rainfall for Water Resources Conservation and Sustainable Agriculture

September 3 | 1:00PM

Biology and Management of Stem and Root Diseases of Southern Pines

September 8 | 1:30PM

Leveraging Podcasts in Agricultural and Natural Resources Communication and Outreach

September 22 | 1:00PM

Capturing the Impact of Natural Resource Extension Programs

October 13 | 1:00PM

Paddling Through Paradise: Educating on the Water

October 27 | 1:00PM

Teaching with Video

November 5 | 1:00PM

Identification and Management of Invasive Vine Species

Extension Assistant/Associate/Professor of Forestry (Knoxville, TN)

The School of Natural Resources (SNR) at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture (UTIA) invites applications for a 12-month, tenure-track, 100% Extension Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, or Professor of Forestry. The successful candidate will develop, implement, evaluate, and report on a comprehensive statewide educational program for private (rural and urban), non-industrial landowners concentrating on forest management. The minimum required qualification is a doctorate in forestry, forest management, natural resources, or a closely related field. Apply here.

Alabama Extension Director Position

Auburn University invites nominations and applications for the position of Director of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. The director serves as Alabama Extension’s chief academic and administrative officer providing vision and leadership that enhance the system’s tradition of excellence in education, research, service, and educational outreach. This position will be permanently located in Auburn, Alabama. Read the job description here.

The National Forest Foundation Collaborative Capacity Program for Forests & Communities

The National Forest Foundation’s (NFF) Collaborative Capacity Program Round 2 financial awards provide resources to support collaborative activities that increase wildfire resilience, recreation opportunities, forest health, and rural economies. Eligible efforts must describe how investments in collaboration will support a long-term strategy for achieving stewardship outcomes and how these outcomes benefit National Forest System lands. NFF is offering mini grant awards, up to $10,000, and standard grant awards from $10,001 up to $75,000. Proposals will be accepted from throughout the United States where there can be benefit to National Forest System lands. Eligible applicants are Federally recognized Tribal governments and Tribal organizations, non-profit organizations, local government entities, and colleges and universities. Activities in Round 2 will begin in late 2025 and may run for 12, 18, or 24 months. The deadline for mini grant applications is July 25. Standard grant applications are due August 1 for community partners and August 22 for Tribal applicants. Click here to learn more and apply.

Renewable Energy Wildlife Research Fund

The Renewable Energy Wildlife Research Fund (REWRF) is an initiative of the renewable energy industry to support independent, third-party research informing wind and solar energy development, construction, and operations. The initiative is comprised of companies that build and/or operate utility-scale renewable energy projects and is administered by staff from the Renewable Energy Wildlife Institute (REWI). Fund-sponsored projects are intended to advance scientific research designed to accelerate renewable energy deployment to meet demand for clean energy while mitigating impacts on wildlife. Full proposals are due July 11. All materials associated with the Full Proposal must be submitted via email to REWRF (fund@rewi.org). Learn more and apply here.

2026 Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program Challenge Request for Proposals

The Department of Defense’s (DOD) Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program has recently announced the release of the 2026 REPI Challenge Request for Proposals (RFP). This challenge will focus on safeguarding strategic missions across the U.S. and its territories to restore trust in the military, rebuild the military, and reestablish deterrence. This year, the REPI Program will provide up to $20 million in funding for activities in the vicinity of DOD installations and ranges. Eligible applicants may include states, local governments, Indian Tribes, private organizations through cost-sharing agreements, and heads of Federal departments and agencies through interagency agreements. Applicants for the challenge must demonstrate how the project will preserve readiness and defense capabilities, protect U.S. warriors’ access to open testing and training areas, and reduce risks to critical infrastructure across defense communities. Pre-proposals for the challenge are due July 3 at 8:00 PM Eastern Time. Learn more about the REPI Challenge RFP here.

Norfolk Southern’s New Community Disaster Relief Grant Program

To support communities affected by recent storms in the south and Midwest, Norfolk Southern, a major freight railroad company, has launched a new Community Disaster Relief Grant Program. This program will provide up to $250,000 to non-profits that are assisting residents in Norfolk Southern’s operating areas affected by the recent weather event. Non-profits are encouraged to apply by submitting how they are responding to the storm. Learn more and apply here.

Cumberland Plateau-Southern Appalachians Stewardship Fund 2025 Request for Proposals

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is soliciting proposals within the Cumberland Plateau region, located in certain parts of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, and Tennessee, for projects that will help accelerate the restoration and enhancement of critical forest, grassland, and freshwater habitats in the region. Grant awards are expected to range from $250,000 to $750,000 with a project period of 24–48 months following finalization of a grant agreement. Projects should have a minimum of 1:1 non-federal match funding. Eligible applicants include state, local, and municipal governments, non-profits, Tribal Governments and Organizations, and educational institutions. Full proposals are due July 16. Learn more and apply here.

Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Network Grant Opportunity

The Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Network (SFLR) is a non-profit organization that focuses on improving forest management by connecting African American landowners to established networks of forestry support. SFLR is providing a grant opportunity that will award up to $400,000 over two years to projects that support forestry and land retention programs for African American and rural forest landowners. Up to two winners may be selected from organizations based in Texas, Florida, Tennessee, or Louisiana. Proposals are due by July 3. Learn more about the grant opportunity and the application here.

DOD REPI Program Announces Release of 2026 REPI Challenge Request for Proposals

The Department of Defense’s (DOD) Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program is pleased to announce the release of the 2026 REPI Challenge Request for Proposals (RFP). The 2026 REPI Challenge supports cost-sharing partnerships between military services, private organizations, and state and local governments to avoid land use conflicts in the vicinity of DOD installations and ranges. Projects have included a range of projects that cover wildfire mitigation, promoting prescribed fire, watershed management, property preservation, sentinel landscapes, creating protocols for safeguarding ecosystems post-disturbances, and more. Those who are eligible to apply are states, local governments, Indian Tribes, private organizations through cost-sharing agreements, and heads of Federal departments and agencies through interagency agreements. Click the link for information on applying. Pre-proposals for the 2026 REPI Challenge are due in the REPI Challenge Online Portal by Thursday, July 3 at 8:00 PM Eastern Time. DOD will notify applicants via email regarding the status of their pre-proposal by July 28 and full proposals are due September 1.

July 10 | Guyton, GA

Conservation Tools & Trends for Private Land & Working Forests Course

July 15-18 | Washington DC

The American Forest Congress Meeting

July 18 | Farmersville, TX

Habitat at Home: Farmersville

July 23-25 | Columbia, MO

August 1| Waimea, HI

NASF Awards

North American Agroforestry Conference

The NASF Annual Awards Committee is now accepting nominations for the 2025 NASF Awards. The deadline for submissions is August 1, 2025. To nominate someone, click here.

August 6-8 | Nashville, TN

38th Forest Products Machinery & Equipment EXPO

August 6-8 | Nashville, TN

August 19-20 | Tifton, GA

UGA-Warnell Continuing Education Program

Forest Products EXPO

The Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources is offering Continuing Education Credits for long leaf pine management. To register, click here.

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 16-17 | Tifton, GA

UGA-Warnell Continuing Education Program

September 9-11 | Asheville, NC

The Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources is offering Continuing Education Credits for pine straw production. To register, click here.

Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Symposium

September 18-19 | Hanover, NH

2025 Local Solutions: Bouncing Forward to Create Resilient Communities

September 29-October 1 | Nashville, TN

Advancing Mass Timber Construction Conference

September 29-October 2 | Auburn, AL

2025 International Conference on Forest Carbon & Resilience

October 1-3 | San Antonio, TX

National Hardwood Lumber Association Annual Convention and Exhibit Showcase

October 23-27 | Lima, Peru

FLARE Annual Meeting

October 26-29 | Biloxi, MS

SEAFWA Annual Conference

October 29-30| Biloxi, MS

Fall Longleaf Partnership Council Meeting

November 4-6| Madison, WI

4th Mass Timber Research Needs Assessment Workshop

This meeting will be held at the Beau Rivage Resort in conjunction with the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (SEAFWA) Annual Conference. More information will be released before the meeting date.

The USDA Forest Service Forest Products Lab (FPL) will be hosting the 4th Mass Timber Research Needs Assessment Workshop. To learn more about this event, please contact: Marco Lo Ricco at marco.loricco@usda.gov or (608) 231-9583.

November 7 | Summerville, SC

10th Annual South Carolina Rural and Limited Resource Landowner Symposium "Rooted in Legacy”

April 13-16, 2026 | Omaha, NE

National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration

May 12-15, 2026 | Wilmington, NC

ANREP Conference

November 7, 2026 | Coimbra, Portugal

International Conference on Forest Fire Research