Webinar Spotlight ⭐

Forests and the Federal Budget: Updates from DC and Potential Impacts to You

Join the Society of American Foresters for a FREE 1-hour webinar breaking down the latest reconciliation bill and Fiscal Year 2025 and 2026 appropriations. Designed for forestry and natural resources professionals, this session will help you understand the federal budget process and prepare for upcoming policy shifts.

Auburn Forestry Professor Featured in NPR Podcast on Lack of Tree Insurance in the U.S.

A recent podcast hosted by “The Indicator from Planet Money” on National Public Radio’s (NPR) discusses why trees – unlike other U.S. crops – aren’t covered by insurance. They cite the high cost and complexity of valuing long-lived trees, coupled with the increase in unpredictable, extreme weather events, that makes timber insurance a low-demand, high-premium product. Auburn forestry professor Daowei Zhang was interviewed as part of this episode. Listen to the nine-minute podcast here.

UF Extension Launches Invasive Species Survey Group Using Citizen Science

The University of Florida (UF) Extension has recently launched an “Invasive Species Survey Group” and is looking for volunteers to identify and survey invasive species. This all-volunteer group will be trained to assist land managers by scouting for and mapping invasive plants on managed properties across north Florida and the panhandle. The goal is to improve invasive species management at a regional level by assisting land managers who are actively managing or are interested in actively managing invasive plants on their properties. The work will be done on both public and private lands in the project area. To learn more about the program and request a free survey click here. For additional questions, contact the program coordinator at

ISCVolunteerCoordinator@ifas.ufl.edu.

UGA Researchers Track Coyote Behavior in Metro Atlanta as Part of GA DNR Urban Wildlife Program

The University of Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources Wildlife Extension & research team contributes data and helps track coyotes as part of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources' (GA DNR) Wildlife Resources Urban Wildlife Program (UWP). This program’s goal is to help Atlanta residents resolve conflicts with wildlife. As urban sprawl continues to rise due to exploding populations in metro areas, human-wildlife interactions have become increasingly more common. Coyotes are the second most reported species to UWP. To better understand their urban behavior, researchers fitted eight coyotes with GPS camera collars around Atlanta between winter 2023 and 2024. More than 200 hours of video footage was collected, which enabled researchers to evaluate urban coyote predation rate son natural and anthropogenic food sources and their general diel activities. Read more about UGA’s work on this program here.

Prairie View A&M Professor Calls for More Advanced Warning Systems After 2025 Hill Country Disaster

In response to the July 2025 Texas Hill Country flash flood, Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) professor Dr. Ali Fares wrote an article advocating for the implementation of warning systems that use advanced technology. After 11 inches of rainfall dropped in a few hours, the Guadalupe River rose more than 26 feet in just 45 minutes. The flood caused massive casualties and billions in damage. Forests suffered severe erosion, tree loss, and soil destabilization. Researchers at PVAMU suggest that rapid, intense inland floods will likely increase with climate change and urban runoff, especially in steep watersheds. Dr. Fares recommends deploying dense sensor networks, radar-based modeling, real-time alert systems, and public training to facilitate early warnings. Read the full article here.

Benefits of “Systems Thinking Mindset” For Extension Personnel Highlighted in Journal Article

Published by the University of Georgia Extension as part of its series “The Human Dimensions of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences,” a recent article titled “Systems Thinking Mindset” discusses the benefit of systems thinking in analyzing how interconnected components work together to achieve a specific goal. The article, authored by UGA Associate Professor Kevan Lamm explains how developing a systems thinking mindset can be used to address complex challenges and can be used as an effective approach for evaluating programs, identifying root causes, and improving results. Read the full article here.

FORISK Director Releases Second Edition of Timberland Management Book

In the revised second edition of his book Aunt Fanny Learns Forestry: Managing Timberland as an Investment, Brooks Mendell, CEO and founder of Forisk discusses the key responsibilities, risks, and performance measures involved in owning and managing timberland for financial gain. Audiences for the book include anyone from individuals to investors to institutions, etc. who are interested in better understanding how timber management investment works. Mendell’s book, featuring illustrations by a forester and taxidermist, provides a concise overview of what is required to manage forestland as an asset. The book’s namesake, “Aunt Fanny,” takes readers along on her journey as she attempts to learn the fundamentals of forestry investment. Read more about the book here.

USFS Wood Innovations & Endowment Offer No-cost Technical Assistance to Wood Manufacturing Facilities

The US Department of Agriculture Forest Service (USFS) Wood Innovations Program has partnered with the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities to support direct, expert technical assistance to wood products manufacturers, provided by industry expert consults, through the Wood Manufacturing Assistance Team (WMAT). Domestic wood products manufacturing facilities .In order to remain competitive and domestic wood products manufacturing facilities (including sawmills, pellet mills, biomass processing facilities, and others) must continuously improve operations, invest in equipment, and enhance safety and efficiency. The WMAT can support these improvements and investments through a range of services including operational efficiency audits, identification of equipment or process improvements, development of long-term strategic investment plans, maintenance safety program reviews, capital investment feasibility studies &/or identification of new markets or expansion opportunities. For technical assistance needs specific to wood energy facilities, please visit this site. For information related to Wood Manufacturing Assistance or to submit interest in assistance, visit here. For questions about WMAT or other Wood Innovations programs, contact the Regional Wood Innovations Coordinator, this page to find the correct contact.

New Publication Explores Compatibility Between Carbon Offset Projects & Preferential Property Tax Programs

A new paper from the Journal of Sustainable Forestry explores carbon offsets and property tax programs. The article, “Dual Enrollment: Assessing Compatibility Between Improved Management Carbon Offset Projects and Preferential Property Tax Programs Across Nine States, was based on a study by researchers from Michigan State University. While dual enrollment in these types of programs has been considered a promising strategy to obtain income and benefits for landowners, it had not been studied. The study features a compatibility analysis conducted in nine states, examining the extent to which landowner dual enrollment is possible for preferential property tax programs and improved forest management projects. In most states, it’s possible to do both, but compatibility between the two programs is based on case-by-case evaluations and county tax officials may have a stronger say in the feasibility depending on location. To learn more, click here.

National Colorado Wildfire Council Partners with Canadian Company on Drone Reforestation Project Funded by ConservationX Grant

In May, Flash Forest, a Canadian reforestation company, partnered with the Grand County Wildfire Council on a pilot program to deploy its Hylio drone system to replant trees destroyed by the 2020 East Troublesome Fire in Granby and Grand Lake, Colorado. Funded by a ConservationX grant, the program prioritized severely burned zones where natural regeneration was failing and used Flash Forest drone technology to inject nutrient- and microbe-filled seedpods directly into scorched soil across three-acre plots. The goal of the

reforestation program is to achieve full tree density restoration and to plant diverse species, including ponderosa pine, cork bark fir, and Engelmann spruce in the areas decimated by the fire. Read the full story here.

USFS Publishes New National Woodland Owner Survey Data Tools

The United States Forest Service (USFS) has published data and tools for its latest National Woodland Owner Survey (NWOS). Of the 704 million acres of forest land in the U.S., 420 million acres – 60% – is privately owned. The NWOS gathers data on woodland ownership, its purposes and uses, land management objectives, and owner demographics. The survey helps to inform policy makers, forestry agencies, researchers, and private consultants by providing statistically driven insights needed for developing targeted outreach programs, resource planning, and forest stewardship initiatives. The NWOS is implemented through the Family Forest Research Center, a joint venture between the USDA Forest Service and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The overview, data, and data tools used for the survey can be found here.

Guide to Mass Timber Construction Released by Rayonier

Rayonier, inc., a timberland-focused real estate investment trust (REIT), released a “Guide to Mass Timber Construction,” recently. The Guide includes information on mass timber, and how it is reshaping the commercial building industry. Topics covered include why mass timber is important and what it is, the types of mass timber products, information on their popularity, their tree sources, examples of mass timber buildings, success stories, etc. The guide also emphasizes the critical role of the forestry sector in providing a steady, reliable supply of timber through responsible harvesting and long-term planning. Read the complete guide here.

#ForestProud Article Highlights the Benefits of Urban Wood Recycling

According to an article published by #forestproud – an outreach initiative of the Society of American Foresters – every year an estimated 15–30 million tons of urban and community wood ends up rotting in landfills and releasing carbon. Ina recent article, titled “Wood Innovation: Building a Sustainable Future from the Forest,” Forest Proud highlights the value of recycling urban wood after disasters. Many communities have already begun salvaging fallen trees and storm debris to create lumber, furniture, biochar, and compost in an effort to save carbon, reduce waste, and support the local job economy. The article shows that urban wood utilization is an exciting, new forest-climate solution that can turn debris into opportunity. Read the full article here.

“Superwood” Could Become Building Material of the Future

Researchers at the University of Maryland-College Park have engineered a wood that is stronger than steel and natural timber. The wood, known as “Superwood,” was created by treating natural timber with special chemicals and compressing it using heat and pressure. This process makes Superwood much stronger and more durable than natural timber. The wood is also resistant to water, fire, bugs, and rot. Produced in Frederick, Maryland, Superwood is initially being used for siding, decking, and fencing with the potential for future application in structural elements like beams and panels. Learn more about

Superwood here.

Registration Now Open for Partners in Community Forestry Conference

The Arbor Day Foundation recently announced that registration is now open for the Partners in Community Forestry Conference, which will be held November 19-20 in Henderson, NV. The conference is focused on creating opportunities for leaders across the industry to connect, foster sustainable practices and create green, thriving urban landscapes. To learn more and/or register for the conference, click here.

July 30 | 1:00PM

Forests and the Federal Budget: Updates from DC and Potential Impacts to You

July 31 | 2:00PM

USFS-Intertibal Nursery Council, Webinar 2: The Importance of Water Quality in Nurseries

July 31 | 2:00PM

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

August 6 | 11:30AM

Enhanced Forest Drought Response Index (ForDRI)

August 7 | 2:00PM

USFS-Intertibal Nursery Council, webinar 3: Growing Media 101

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 | 1:00PMM

Teaching with Video

November 5 | 1:00P

Identification and Management of Invasive Vine Species

Osage Plains Fire & Stewardship Coordinator, MO

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is hiring a fire and stewardship coordinator for the Osage Plains. The position includes a heavy emphasis on fire planning, implementation, coordination, and collaboration. There would be anticipation that the candidate will work towards RxB2. The position includes an opportunity to build a regional conservation program that includes working with conservation partners, volunteers, interns, and private landowners. The position is located in Eldorado Springs, MO. Find out more here.

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.

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.

August 1| Waimea, HI

The NASF Annual Awards

August 6-8 | Nashville, TN

38th Forest Products Machinery & Equipment EXPO

August 6-8 | Nashville, TN

Forest Products EXPO

August 19-20 |

Tifton, GA

Longleaf Pine Management Workshop

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

September 16-17 |Tifton, GA

Pine Straw Production Workshop

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 1-2 | Virtual

Timber Market Analysis Class

October 1-3 | San Antonio, TX

National Hardwood Lumber Association Annual Convention and Exhibit Showcase

October 23-27 | Lima, Peru

Forests Livelihoods, Assessment, Research & Engagement (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

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

Association of Natural Resources Extension Professionals (ANREP) Conference

November 7-13, 2026 | Coimbra, Portugal

International Conference on Forest Fire Research