Whether tracking tree growth, mapping, measuring topography or detecting streams, remote sensing has become an indispensable tool for foresters and researchers.

With so much tech involved, talking remote sensing can get technical fast, which can make it hard to understand.

This article explores the nuts and bolts of modern remote sensing in a layperson’s terms with New England Forestry’s Research and Development remote sensing team: Remote Sensing Manager Trevor Host and Remote Sensing Forester Aaron Evans.

Here, you’ll learn:

• What is Remote Sensing?
• How Remote Sensing Works in Forestry
• Benefits of Remote Sensing for Forest Management
• Challenges of Remote Sensing in Forestry
• A Typical Day As a New England Forestry Remote Sensing Forestry Researcher
• The Future of Remote Sensing in Forestry

What Is Remote Sensing? A Brief History & Explanation

Remote sensing uses technology such as cameras, lasers, satellites and various aircraft to collect data about a particular area or landscape.

“Remote sensing has been around since we’ve been able to put cameras in something that could go up,” Trevor says. “For instance, hot air balloons used to be used for remote sensing.

“With satellites, a lot has been driven by military operations. One of the primary uses of the first satellites was to get a remote view and create maps of countries that were at war. The cold war led to a lot of development of remote sensing.”

There are two types of remote sensing: Active vs. Passive

The difference between active and passive remote sensing comes down to the energy source used to gather data.

1. Active: This is performed using artificial energy sources like light bulbs or the flash of a camera.
2. Passive: This is performed using natural reflective light, like energy from the sun.

Remote sensing technologies use one of these two methods to gather information depending on the environment and the type of data needed.

Some examples of remote sensing technologies include:

• LiDAR: Uses light or lasers to measure distance
• Radar: Uses radio signals to collect data
• Sonar: Uses sound to create images of the ocean floor
• Specialized cameras: These take photographs or video to capture data from drones, aircraft, or satellites

Choosing the Right Remote Sensing Tool for the Job

Trevor explains that each remote sensing technology and application has benefits and drawbacks.
Each of these technologies gathers data differently, and the best one to use depends on the goal, environment and level of detail needed.

“We use drones, aircraft or satellites depending on what we want to look at. Drones fly much lower and are more detailed, but you can only cover a small area. Satellites cover full counties on a regular basis, and it’s repeated, but the images have coarser resolutions and cloud cover, so you can’t always tell the details as well.”

Regardless, they all play an important role in tracking the health, viability and growth of forests.

Different Types of Remote Sensing Used in Forestry

Forestry researchers use various remote sensing devices and technology to gather data.

Trevor says New England Forestry obtains most of its remote sensing data from federal programs and some from in-house operations, including LiDAR.

Why LiDAR Technology Has Become Important for Forestry Remote Sensing

Trevor is spearheading a new LiDAR data project in which laser scanners mounted on aircraft collect 3D imagery, providing highly detailed terrain maps for New England Forestry forest managers and researchers.

LiDAR, an acronym for light detection and ranging, was born from radar (radio detection and ranging) and is the most commonly used active airborne sensor.

While radar uses radio waves to measure things, Lidar uses pulses of light—or lasers—which measure the elevation of things, such as the ground and trees, in three-dimensional space.

The capabilities of LiDAR technology make it possible for remote sensing scientists to:

• Map ground elevation using light angle, altitude, and tilt
• Measure forest structure in 3D, including tree height, spacing, and density
• See through forest canopies to gather data about the forest floor
• Identify natural features such as water flow patterns, stream beds, and terrain variation

How does LiDAR work?

In a nutshell, the lasers emit a pulse of light that travels to the ground or trees below, which then reflects information back to the LiDAR sensor, including the time it takes for the light to travel from the ground or object back to the LiDAR system.

From there, the LiDAR system uses the speed of light to calculate the distance between the top of the measured object, such as a tree, and the plane.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:

• A laser pulse is emitted toward the ground or object
• The pulse reflects off the surface and returns to the sensor
• The system measures the time it took for the light to return
• Using that time and the speed of light, it calculates distance
• Additional data like light angle, altitude and tilt are used to determine ground elevation

The Value of LiDAR for Forest Management

LiDAR is invaluable in forestry for providing 3D imagery of forest structures, topography, streams, ground elevation and more.

Plus, LiDAR sensors filter through the forest canopy, from the top of the trees to the ground below.

Think of it like light streaming through the trees, which gives a detailed and holistic view of the forest structure, not just the treetops.

This gives researchers and foresters much more information than aerial or satellite images.

“LiDAR is used to create a 3-D map,” explains Trevor, “so you’ll get the returns of the position with that laser pulse bounced off the ground, and that can tell you something about the 3D elevation of the ground with precise detail to the point when you can see gaps between houses and trees, where water flows, and where streams are, which are all important for us. It’s also useful for mapping tree heights.

“It allows us to cover the entire footprint of our landbase, whereas most of our other measurements are specific to forest stands. It also tells us the value of maintaining the forest.”

LiDAR can gather valuable information about tree density, height, shape and even the forest floor, which has been game-changing for forest research and management.

Benefits of Remote Sensing for Forest Management

The benefits of remote sensing for forest management and research fall into two categories, Trevor says:

“First, you save time planning out timber sales. We have to map out where the boundary of a timber sale will be. Those depend on how close you are to the stream channel, and remote sensing technology, such as LiDAR, helps us determine that accurately.

“Second, remote sensing provides the measurements used in things like assessing tree height growth. This helps us see if the stand is on track with what we expect for that age of a stand and how variable the heights are within the stand.”

And trees aren’t the only plant life captured, Aaron adds: “These technologies will give you helpful information on vegetation growth as well.”

Foresters also can gain important insight into water features that are important to understand at all stages in the forest lifecycle.

“It’s great for stream mapping and delineations,” Aaron says. “We can identify more waterways, spot distinctive water features, and have an insight of the stand before getting there.”

The Biggest Challenges of Remote Sensing in Forestry

Remote sensing is all about collecting data that must be reviewed and sorted by the research team.

“It definitely generates a lot of data,” Trevor says, “so data management, quality of imagery and interpretation takes up a lot of our time. We have a whole research team, but Aaron and I pretty much review all the data.”

Both researchers also mentioned general challenges with limitations in technology.

“We try to make imagery available on phones, but if you don’t have a network connection out in the woods, there are challenges there,” says Trevor.

A Typical Day As a New England Forestry Remote Sensing Forestry Researcher

The researchers said there isn’t one typical kind of day in their line of work. Their responsibilities vary depending on project needs, but often include:

• Collecting field measurements using mobile technology
• Developing and testing new remote sensing tools
• Training foresters on how to use new technology
• Collaborating across teams to solve specific forest management challenges
• Conducting research and development reviews
• Leading workshops and sharing insights with peers and partners

“We spend some days in the field doing measurements from our phones and some days back at the office,” Aaron says. “It just depends on the questions being asked and what’s needed.”

“A big part of what we do, since this is newer technology, is developing the tools, then trying to train foresters on how to use them,” Trevor says.

“Everyone’s coming from different backgrounds. So, a big part of it is just meeting everyone where they are and working with them to identify one thing that can help them make the job easier.”

Trevor and Aaron say the response from foresters of all tenures to the new technologies has been overwhelmingly positive.

“The folks who have been doing this work in the field for years are so excited about it,” Trevor says. “It is exciting for them to pull it up on an app and see, ‘Hey, this is exactly what my field knowledge confirms.’ I think a lot of people who have been doing this for a long time love it and take to it really quickly.”

Trevor emphasized he and Aaron also spend a lot of time providing training and workshops, doing research and development reviews, and sharing information on various topics with the New England Forestry team as well as organizations and educational institutions outside New England Forestry.

What’s Up and Coming in the World of Remote Sensing in Forestry?

Both Trevor and Aaron are excited about the expansion of AI in streamlining remote sensing data mining and management.

“Remote sensing data is pretty well-suited for AI,” Trevor says, “because if you think about satellite imagery, the data it collects is very standardized and that lends itself well to AI capability.

“If you can have an AI algorithm just look through thousands of images and kick out the cloudy ones, that can save a lot of time and take clear images stacked together. It can get you 75% of the way there, and that is a significant time-saver.”

Aaron would also like to see remote sensing technology improve for tree measurement:

“If you have an iPhone Pro, it has a LiDAR sensor, but it only goes about 15 feet. You can scan your room with a small LiDAR sensor and it will provide measurements. I’d like to see it work for larger trees.”

Aaron added he could see LiDAR playing a greater role in habitat management and biodiversity in the future.

Trevor expects LiDAR usage to expand in the same way foresters’ drone usage has in the field.

“I’d say drones have become a regular tool in the back of the forester’s pickup truck. When you think back to 10 years ago, that wasn’t the case. You don’t need anything fancy. It’s just a way to get a view in the sky.”

New England Forestry is Proud to Help Advance Research and Development Through Remote Sensing in Forestry

For over 75 years, New England Forestry has invested in its in-house Forest Research Center, one of only two industry-led research teams in the country.

Here, our scientists use modern research and technologies, like remote sensing, to gain a better understanding of what’s needed to support thriving pine trees, clean watersheds and diverse plant and animal species on active forestlands.

Learn more about how we’re making a difference to forestry science and the planet in:

• New England Forestry Scientists Bring Deep Knowledge to Forest Management
• What Are Land-Based Solutions?
• What Does A Forest Biometrician Do?

Interested in a Career in Remote Sensing?

Remote sensing researchers like Trevor and Aaron are shaping the future of forestry with innovative technologies that help protect and manage our forests more effectively.

If you’re passionate about the environment and excited by the idea of using cutting-edge tools to better understand the world around us, a career in remote sensing might be the perfect fit.

Learn more about careers like these at ForestryCareers.com and explore how to get started by visiting the Remote Sensing Researcher Profile.

The post How Modern Remote Sensing Is Transforming The Future of Forestry appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

Public affairs plays a vital role in ensuring that companies like New England Forestry can sustainably manage land while navigating public policy, community relationships and industry dynamics.

Shawn DeRome has a natural knack for building and maintaining relationships. Without realizing it, her cumulative experience and years of networking opened the doors to the dream job she currently holds at New England Forestry.

She began her forestry career as a procurement forester at a sawmill, purchasing timber for the mill. Now, she advocates on New England Forestry’s behalf as the Eastern Director of Public Affairs, covering four states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia and South Carolina.

“I got into forestry because I love nature and spending time outside,” she says. “I also enjoy the networking and building of relationships aspect of it. My job is so diverse. It includes industry work, non-industry work, and interacting with our communities. It’s so different from any other job in the industry. But it all comes back to forestry, and that’s my passion.”

In this career spotlight, we’ll explore how Shawn found her path, what her role involves, and how public affairs connects communities, policy and sustainable forest management.

• How Shawn Got Her Start in Forestry
• How Shawn’s Career in Forestry Evolved at New England Forestry
• What Does a New England Forestry Director of Public Affairs Do?
• How Public Affairs Supports New England Forestry’s Timber and Non-Timber Operations
• Why Advocating for Sustainable Forestry Matters

How Shawn Got Her Start in Forestry

Like many forestry professionals, Shawn didn’t set out knowing exactly where her career would lead—but her education helped point the way. Her journey into forestry began in college, where a love for the outdoors sparked an unexpected career path.

Discovering Forestry Through Education

While studying for her undergrad at the University of Georgia, Shawn discovered her interest in forestry. She excelled in many of her classes, including a Freshwater Invertebrate Zoology course in which her professor observed her passion for the outdoors.

“For class, we would stomp around in the creek, collecting tiny freshwater invertebrates for observation. I could always remember the scientific names and random facts about the invertebrates. My professor took notice and encouraged me to apply to Warnell, the forestry school at the University of Georgia.

“The Natural Resources, Recreation and Tourism program was a great fit and I was able to tailor it as a forestry-focused education.”

Connecting with the Forestry Industry Through Hands-On Experience

During her education and various internships, Shawn discovered her interest and passion for what she describes as the “bridge between society and working forests.” As a student, she served as a student ambassador, helping with events and volunteering with organizations such as the Georgia Forestry Association. 

She even worked at the school’s Deer Research Facilities, where she often led tours to educate the public about deer habitat and population management.

“As an undergrad, I was given many opportunities to network. The experience I received throughout my time at Warnell continued to build my interest in the rich history of forestry in the Southeast, natural resource management, and how people interact with their land and communities.”

Why Graduate School Was the Next Step

Shawn’s original plan was to graduate and get a job. However, a professor and mentor encouraged her to pursue a master’s degree from the Harley Langdale Jr. Center for Forest Business at the University of Georgia.

“Pursuing my master’s degree provided me with further industrial forestry networking opportunities combined with a solid financial foundation,” Shawn says. “I came out of that program having networked for a solid four years. I enjoyed it, but didn’t realize how much it would come full circle later.”

How Shawn’s Career in Forestry Evolved at New England Forestry

Right out of school, Shawn began working in procurement forestry, buying trees for a sawmill, working with loggers, and looking at special projects for the company. After about two years, she applied for a timber marketing forester position with New England Forestry. But the company saw her potential for a different role.

Gaining Industry Insight as a Business Development Analyst

“When I interviewed, New England Forestry saw that I was well-suited for a business development analyst position,” recalls Shawn. “In that role, I was the person digging into market intelligence research for the company, looking at everything from hyperlocal timber markets to global economics. I analyzed how it all fit together and was responsible for understanding the ins and outs of housing and lumber prices, foreign markets, what timber prices we were getting in each of our regions, and how we strategize with this data moving forward. That position built a deep understanding of the industry and continues to help me in my current role.”

Preparing for a Leadership Role in Public Affairs

While working as a business development analyst, Shawn still engaged with trade associations and with the forestry school at the University of Georgia. She began serving on the school’s Young Alumni Committee and is currently the Chair. She has continued to build industry relationships, growing her interest in the connection between policy and forestry.

How Mentorship Shaped Shawn’s Career

“After a few years, the gentleman who had held the position of Director of Public Affairs, Dan Roach, was retiring. I spent a lot of time with him before he officially retired, which has proven to be essential for this role. He had been with the company for 44 years and knew the history and people like the back of his hand. I definitely couldn’t do this job as well without him.

“I had expressed my interest and applied for the role. When I got the job, I was overjoyed. It was confirmation that everything I had done—my networking, my passion for the industry, all of my experience—all of it was coming together.”

What Does a New England Forestry Director of Public Affairs Do?

The Director of Public Affairs at New England Forestry works across departments to support forestry operations, community outreach and public policy engagement.

The Director of Public Affairs’ primary responsibilities include:

• Works with our teams to identify areas or projects in need of additional support and develops strategies.
• Concentrates on current and emerging public policy and community issues that impact the company’s diverse interests.
• Builds bridges and fosters understanding among various (and at times competing) stakeholders such as industry associations, legislators and community leaders.

How Relationships and Strategy Shape the Role

“I like to say my job encompasses strategy and problem-solving,” Shawn explains. “Building genuine relationships at both the local and state levels is a big part of what I do. My job is to help maintain a healthy business climate so that New England Forestry can do what New England Forestry does best: stewardship and sustainable land management.”

What a Typical Day Looks Like in Public Affairs

When asked what a typical day is like, Shawn chuckles and says, “It’s the coolest job there is because I get to work with everybody in the company, and everybody externally. No day is typical or the same. One day, I might meet with an environmental group concerned about water quality. The next, I’m talking with landowners about palmetto berry theft. The next, I could be speaking to legislators about rare plants or wildlife that we help protect.”

How Public Affairs Supports New England Forestry’s Timber and Non-Timber Operations

At New England Forestry, we operate within two categories of business: timber and non-timber activities. As the Eastern Director of Public Affairs, Shawn must divide her attention among the two.

The Timber Side of New England Forestry

Education and advocacy make up a large portion of Shawn’s timber-related job activities. This includes working with external stakeholders to help them understand the benefits of forestry and the challenges that it faces.

In her public affairs role, Shawn works to raise awareness of:

• The environmental value of sustainable forestry — including clean air, clean water, and habitat for wildlife.
• How forestry works — including the 25-year forest lifecycle of growing and harvesting trees in the Southeast.
• The economic importance of forestry — from supporting rural communities to the essential role of loggers and truck drivers.
• Why education matters — helping community members, legislators, and other stakeholders better understand forestry’s impact.

“We focus on how forestry provides clean air, clean water and habitat for wildlife. For about 25 years per-rotation, our forests grow, we manage them accordingly, harvest the timber and then the process starts over again. The forestry industry also provides hundreds of thousands of rural jobs. Without loggers and truck drivers, none of this would be possible. They really do the hard work. Much of this, I believe, gets lost in translation and people just need the education and tools to better understand what all goes into sustainable forestry, why it’s important to society, and where New England Forestry fits in.”

Shawn is involved in about 30 different local and state groups, providing her with opportunities to discuss forestry and land management. She serves on boards, committees, task groups, and more. Consistent communication and collaboration with stakeholder groups allows Shawn the opportunity to share and better understand outside perceptions.

In addition to collaboration, Shawn is also involved in forestry advocacy related to fair policies.

“Legislators need to know and understand how forestry fits into the picture. They may not fully understand why we need to focus on issues such as landowner rights or trespassing laws. But it matters because it all comes back to our business model. We need policies that allow us to manage our land sustainably.”

The Non-Timber Side of New England Forestry

In addition to timber, New England Forestry manages a variety of non-timber businesses across its land base. Shawn works closely with these business partners to ensure that non-timber operations align with New England Forestry’s standards for responsible land use.

Her work includes:

• Supporting sustainable land-based businesses – including hunting and recreation, pine straw and fill dirt, just to name a few.
• Evaluating emerging opportunities – like the increasing demand for renewable energy.
• Ensuring responsible land stewardship – by maintaining high standards across all activities.

Solar projects, for example, are one of those emerging opportunities and have increased in popularity in the forestry industry. Although New England Forestry has established solar operations, the increased interest is new for our company.

“Solar is an important and valuable source of renewable energy, but it’s a different conversation than growing trees. Understanding the balance is important.”

“It all ties together, coming back to the big picture of sustainability. It’s our land and we want it to remain healthy and all activities to be conducted responsibly. We have high standards. Every aspect of our business has the same theme—there are just different ways of getting there.”

Why Advocating for Sustainable Forestry Matters

For Shawn, forestry provides solutions for many of the issues our world faces.

“Everything is centered around forestry. The products we use every day, the air we breathe, and the water we drink. Without sustainable, well-managed forests—not just trees growing, but managed timber—we would have none of these things.”

The bridge between forest management and society is an important piece of Shawn’s role at New England Forestry. Maintaining a balance between stewardship and sustainability while ensuring society and policymakers are aware and well-educated is critical to her role as Eastern Director of Public Affairs.

“Within New England Forestry, sustainable and responsible stewardship of the land is what grounds it all. Strong markets for our timber and fair policies provide us, and the industry as a whole, with a positive and healthy business climate. Without all of these things, our industry could not function. Advocating and minimizing the risk to our business is an important aspect of my job.

“What it all boils down to is ensuring society is aware of responsible land management, and that it’s important and beneficial to our everyday lives.”

Interested in Becoming a Forestry Professional?

Shawn’s role at New England Forestry is a testament to how diverse forestry careers can be. Her work reinforces a simple but powerful truth: sustainable forestry isn’t just a practice—it’s a pathway to ensuring forests remain healthy and valued for generations to come.

If you love the outdoors and are passionate about the environment, visit ForestryCareers.com to explore the many careers in forestry and learn how to get started on this exciting career path by visiting the Public Affairs Director Profile.

The post What Does a Director of Public Affairs Do in Forestry? appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

When it comes to forestry and forest management, we often think about the professionals in the woods. But what you may not realize is there is a whole background team that supports “traditional foresters” in the woods. One of the most crucial pieces of forestry support is GIS. 

Although in seemingly different parts of the “world” when it comes to technical expertise, field foresters and GIS professionals go together like peanut butter and jelly, like salt and pepper, or even like chicken and waffles (don’t knock it until you try it!).

Each role is crucial in its own regard. Let’s dive into what GIS really is and get an inside point of view from New England Forestry’s GIS Analyst Emily Ramirez, based in our corporate headquarters in Wildlight, Florida.  

• What is GIS and why is it important in forestry?
• What does GIS stand for?
• What is the difference between Everyday Mapping and GIS Mapping?
• What is the role of a GIS analyst in the forestry industry?
• Why don’t foresters create their own maps?
• Where do GIS analysts get the information they need?
• Meet a GIS Analyst: Emily Ramirez

What is GIS and why is it important in forestry?

GIS is a powerful tool that allows forestry professionals to analyze and manage geographically referenced data. While field foresters navigate the landscape, GIS analysts process and interpret spatial data to guide decision-making.

This collaboration is vital when you think about the complexities of managing hundreds of thousands of acres—millions even, when you look at the entire footprint New England Forestry holds in forestland investments!

What does GIS stand for?

If you look up the technical definition of GIS, you’ll read that it stands for “geographical information systems” and is defined as “a computer system that analyzes and displays geographically referenced information.”

But when asked to define what GIS is, Emily says, “GIS is spatial analysis. A coworker once mentioned to me that it is ‘putting data in its place’ and that really sums it up for me: we are creating, managing and editing data associated with spatial places.”

What is the difference between Everyday Mapping and GIS Mapping?

In modern times, we’re all familiar with satellite imagery and “spatial” systems, as they’re the norms for every iPhone, mapping GPS system and even in everyday use through Google Earth and Google maps.

Most professional foresters and natural resource professionals are proficient at deciphering satellite and aerial imagery to be able to navigate their forested landscape.

So what truly makes GIS work differently from anyone simply looking at Google Earth imagery?

GIS analysts take this technology further, combining multiple types of data to create comprehensive maps that provide deeper insights than imagery alone.

Emily shares, “While looking at satellite imagery is very important, looking at imagery does not tell you the entire story. With GIS, you can combine many types of data—including imagery—to be able to build and analyze so many different types of spatial data way beyond just imagery.”

What is the role of a GIS analyst in the forestry industry?

Incorporating all those layers of data into a map system, GIS analysts like Emily can really make a difference in forestry!

By compiling the information foresters gather in the woods, GIS analysts can create a complete, map-based dataset that truly tells a story and helps foresters anticipate and make the best management decisions.

Key Contributions of GIS Analysts:

• Field Mapping: Foresters use GIS-based maps to plan logging operations or silvicultural practices, such as planting and thinning.
• Data Integration: GIS analysts compile data gathered by foresters in the field, creating comprehensive datasets.
• Efficiency: High-quality maps produced by GIS analysts save foresters time, allowing them to focus on fieldwork.

Why Don’t Foresters Create Their Own Maps?

There are times foresters print their own maps out before they hit their logging sites or start their silvicultural management practices.

If foresters print out their own maps, why wouldn’t they just make their own maps and do their own data entry after they gather it from the fields? I mean, they’re the ones IN the woods and would know the layout of the ground better than anyone else in an office setting, right?

Emily helps provide clarification with that too:

“Some foresters do make their own maps, and they’re excellent,” Emily says. “But just as they are experts in the woods, we are experts in mapping. There is a whole art and science behind cartography, and we take pride in producing quality maps. Also, it is about efficiency. I make maps all the time, and I can make a good map quickly. A map made by our department allows the field to spend more time, well, in the field!”

Where do GIS analysts get the information they need?

But you’re probably wondering: how do GIS analysts make determinations on their maps without ever setting foot in the woods?

If all of their work is computer-based, created in an office, and their job is to help the field team spend more efficient time in the woods, how are they making accurate determinations? As we’ll see from Emily, it’s a team effort.

Tools and Technology in GIS

Creating accurate maps requires advanced tools and data sources. Emily highlights some of the key technologies used to gather information for GIS analysts:

• Drone Imagery: Foresters capture high-resolution images of the landscape.
• LiDAR: This technology reveals hidden features under the canopy, such as streams and roads.
• Digitized Field Maps: Foresters communicate directly with GIS systems from the field, capturing real-time data using a tablet.

“We rely on a variety of sources,” she explains. “Imagery is hugely important. We have drone imagery that our own foresters fly, as well as satellite and digital imagery. Also, we have really come to embrace LiDAR. This allows us to see streams, roads and other natural features that we could not see from imagery alone. It really lets us see what’s underneath the canopy!”

And the database GIS analysts like Emily use is constantly being updated by employees who are in the woods.

“Our field foresters utilize GIS technology in the field, particularly Field Maps,” Emily says. “This allows them to communicate with the GIS systems directly from the field, capturing points, lines and polygons for all sorts of events we could not see from imagery.”

So now that we have the basic understanding of GIS and the relationship between field foresters and GIS, let’s really get to know Emily.

Meet a GIS Analyst: Emily Ramirez

To better understand the role of a GIS analyst, we spoke with Emily Ramirez, who has been with New England Forestry for over 10 years.

Emily holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography with a GIS emphasis from the University of Northern Colorado. She has extensive experience in spatial analysis, cartography, and data integration.

At New England Forestry, Emily has played a pivotal role in advancing GIS applications to support forestry operations and decision-making.

Here, she shares more about her career and experiences in GIS.

Q: What does a typical day look like for a GIS analyst?

A: This is what makes my career so exciting. It really is never the same on a given day. We support the entire company, so one day we may be working with an accounting request, or a solar request, or determining if an acquisition is a good fit for our portfolio. We make maps, answer questions, assist our field users with GIS applications and software, and constantly look at growing our skills to make sure we are on top of the ever changing GIS landscape!

Q: What is the craziest story or memory you have working in GIS?

A: I started my GIS career as an intern at Miami Dade County and they were really focused on bringing 3D and Digital Elevation Models (DEM) data into their systems. I was tasked with creating DEM of the city. I spent almost two days trying to figure out why my DEM was failing and just giving me a flat area. I zoomed into a small area and saw a divot in the landscape. Turns out, it wasn’t failing. Miami is really just that flat!

Q: What’s a real challenge for you in GIS?

A: Having people understand what we do. It is so much more than looking at satellite imagery or Google Earth. We also need to speak up more and show that GIS is integrated in almost everyone’s lives at some point or another.

Q: What’s one thing you wish people knew about GIS work?

A: How diverse the job is. We really do it all, from analysis to cartography. I get to use programming languages, create web and phone applications for our field to use, and use my geospatial analytical skills to answer any question. GIS is a set of skills that can be used in any field, not just forestry. It’s incredibly powerful not only for analysis but for telling a story. A good map is priceless. If you want to relay a message to an audience or just have it as a locating tool, a good map is crucial. The work that goes behind a good map takes a lot of effort!

Q: What’s your biggest pet peeve when it comes to maps and GIS?

A: When the map is cluttered or unbalanced! I understand people want to see a lot of items on a map, but there’s just no way you’re going to be able to tell what you’re looking at if the map has so many layers. Simple is sometimes the best!

Q: Technology is always changing. What has been the best blessing in GIS advancement that makes your job so much more efficient, and what do you think GIS will look like in the future?

A: Using programming languages to automate a lot of repeatable tasks is fantastic. For the future, I think it would be fun to go into more Virtual Reality areas. How neat would it be to be dropped into the forest and create layers based on where you see the streams, plantings, etc.?

Q: What would you advise to someone who is just learning about GIS and looking to get into forestry?

A: Don’t be intimidated by the screen. GIS is using technology to help make foresters more proficient, safer and able to collect valuable data as easily as possible! We rely so much on foresters’ input. We can’t see what is going on in the woods from behind a computer. That’s why we’ve empowered our foresters to implement easy-to-use GIS technology to help create a quality and comprehensive GIS database.

Q: What would you advise someone who is considering a career within GIS?

A: Take a course, a class or even watch some Youtube videos on programming languages! I heard so many times throughout my college career that I would need it, but I didn’t think it was true. Now, 10 years into my career, I love learning and using programming languages! I use SQL probably on a daily basis. It is incredibly helpful.

Interested in becoming a GIS Professional?

If Emily’s story has inspired you to explore a career in GIS, you can learn more about what it takes to become a GIS analyst. Visit the Explore Green Jobs: GIS Analyst page on our website, ForestryCareers.com, to find out the educational requirements, skills and other guidance to get started on this exciting career path.

Article written by Danielle Atkins of Land & Ladies.

The post What does a GIS Analyst do in Forestry? appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

Forestry careers offer a unique blend of working outdoors and contributing to environmental sustainability. In this article, we delve into the role of Timber Marketing Managers, their significance in forestry, and the pathways to becoming a part of this dynamic field.

• What is the role of a timber marketing manager?
• The importance of timber marketing managers in forestry
• How valuable is a stand of timber?
• The value of relationship management in timber sales
• Understanding the impact of timber marketing managers
• How do you become a timber marketer?
• How do aspiring timber marketing managers get hands-on experience?
• Future opportunities in timber sales

What is the Role of a Timber Marketing Manager?

Timber marketing managers—or TMMs, as we like to call them—sell timber to sawmills, wood pulp businesses, log exporters and other buyers for companies like New England Forestry. TMMs work to get the best possible value out of the trees we have invested in and nurtured for decades.

At a high level, tasks include:

• Developing and implementing strategies for a timber sale.
• Assessing the quality and quantity of timber resources.
• Understanding market demand and trends.
• Negotiating contracts with buyers.
• Ensuring harvesting practices align with sustainable forestry principles.

Timber marketing managers act as a bridge between forestry operations and the marketplace, aiming to maximize profitability while promoting responsible resource management.

The Importance of Timber Marketing Managers in Forestry

Timber marketing managers’ strategic decisions and adaptability contribute significantly to the overall health of the timber market.

Adapting to changing market dynamics is a cornerstone of the role. TMMs navigate challenging markets, overcome obstacles, and strategically position timber products to thrive in a dynamic environment, showcasing their resilience and strategic foresight.

“When New England Forestry harvests timber, it needs to be sold no matter what the market conditions are,” says Kevin Pilemalm, our Senior Timber Marketing Manager on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State.

Many factors affect timber sales, such as the overall economic climate, weather conditions that impact logging activities, and local production expenses. These factors are in constant flux and can affect costs and logistics. Our TMMs adapt to these changes to get our forest products to markets.

In addition to this mental calculus, TMMs manage long-standing relationships with loggers and buyers in their local communities, ensuring steady, productive business partnerships.

Kevin and the other TMMs admit this is a demanding role, but they also relish the challenge of it.

“It’s like a jigsaw puzzle,” says Casey LaCasse, one of our Timber Marketing Managers based in Northeast Florida. “You have to put all these pieces together to make the sale work.”

How Valuable is a Stand of Timber?

The value of a stand of timber depends on various factors. When determining value, Timber Marketing Managers assess the species composition, age, size and overall health of the forest stand.

“To sell timber, you need to have a strong understanding of the value of trees and what provides that value,” says Casey.

Many of our TMMs have been in forestry for decades and they understand the factors that impact timber values, such as tree species.

At New England Forestry, we grow several different species. In the U.S. South, we grow pines such as loblolly, slash and longleaf, which require 20 to 25 years to mature. In Washington State and Oregon, hemlocks, firs, and hardwoods require more growing time—sometimes 40 years or more.

“In the Pacific Northwest, we grow cedars and other hardwoods,” says Kevin. “Some of our most valuable trees are export logs that we sell to local facilities to ship overseas.”

TMMs lead teams of foresters that evaluate each stand of trees to determine pricing. In addition to species, these foresters analyze other factors that affect value, including height, diameter, straightness, and quality.

Foresters record specifications for each stand of trees and TMMs use this data to find the right buyer.
TMMs often negotiate directly with prospective buyers, especially if they know a particular buyer’s needs. Other times, they use a bidding system in which they publish the data and buyers bid for the timber.

By understanding these factors, Timber Marketing Managers can ensure that the value of the timber is maximized.

The Value of Relationship Management in Timber Sales

Developing strong relationships is paramount for Timber Marketing Managers. TMMs engage in effective communication and negotiation to build trust and secure long-term partnerships with buyers, forestry teams, logging contractors, and other stakeholders in the wood product supply chain.

It’s critical that TMMs understand the value of timber and keep their finger on the pulse of the log market, but selling timber doesn’t come down to a simple math equation.

“The highest price doesn’t always get the log,” says Ian Thompson, another Senior Timber Marketing Manager on our Pacific Northwest team. “We have long-term relationships with our customers. I’m not going to pull wood away from one mill just because another customer we haven’t worked with in years comes up with a big offer that will only last two months.”

Ian works with about a dozen regular customers, many of them local mills that have a steady demand for our forest products.

“Everybody’s trying to be profitable and we’re all in this together,” he says. “We have to get through the down markets and thrive when the markets are good. It’s about nurturing those relationships, keeping them healthy.”

Hiring the right loggers for Timber Harvesting

Our TMMs also hire and coordinate with local logging businesses and trucking fleets to harvest our trees and deliver them to buyers. Developing healthy relationships with these companies is just as important to the overall success of timber sales.

When deciding which contractors to work with, TMMs look at several factors. Here again, it’s not a simple answer where the best bid gets the contract.

“Productivity is not number one,” says Ian. “First and foremost is safety. Then compliance with regulations and sustainable forestry initiatives. And then productivity comes next. We want them to be as productive as is feasible and reasonable. It comes down to hiring good contractors that understand the rules.”

Understanding the Impact of Timber Marketing Managers

Timber Marketing Managers play a crucial role in balancing economic goals and environmental sustainability.

They contribute to overseeing harvesting practices that minimize ecological impact and ensure compliance with certification standards like a Sustainable Forestry Initiative® certification. Sustainability standard compliance is a vital part of every stage of the forest lifecycle. Learn more about how forestry companies prove they’re sustainable by going behind the scenes on a recent sustainable forestry certification audit.

How Do You Become a Timber Marketer?

Becoming a Timber Marketing Manager (TMM) is a journey that requires a combination of formal education, practical experience and mentorship from industry leaders. The TMM role requires deep knowledge of forestry as well as communication and negotiation skills—a blend of attributes that takes time to develop.

Education needed to become a Timber Marketing Manager

Aspiring Timber Marketing Managers typically pursue degrees in forestry, natural resource management, or a related field. Relevant coursework may cover forest economics, marketing and sustainable forestry practices. 

Many of our TMMs have degrees in forest management, which serve as the foundation they have built upon with their time in the industry. 

This educational background equips them with the necessary tools to navigate the complex landscape of timber marketing.

Developing skills through Work Experience

Many of our TMMs have worked in forestry for decades. Chuck Beck, our TMM in Oklahoma, has been in forestry for 25 years and says his earlier experiences in silviculture (the science of growing trees) gave him a strong knowledge base to build on.

“I’ve gone through a full rotation,” he says. “That’s a unique situation to harvest trees that you planted—to get to see the outcome of those genetics.”

This work experience allows TMMs to intimately understand the entire lifecycle of the timber they market, enhancing their strategic decision-making.

Taking advantage of mentorship from Industry Leaders

A key component of career development is leveraging the invaluable insights and feedback from the leaders around you.

Ian started his career with the U.S. Forest Service. He worked on a timber marking crew, painting trees that were to be cut. He also served on a fire crew. And later he worked as a technician in private forestry, selecting trees for thinning operations.

He got negative feedback at one job when he marked trees that the timber cutter said were too close together. The trees’ crowns were intertwined, making it nearly impossible to harvest one without damaging the others.

“I got a lot of criticism as a young forester,” he says. “It was good because every bit of that helped me in moving forward.”

Ian also recommends negotiation courses for aspiring TMMs to develop the skills to relate with customers.

“Communication is key,” he says. “It’s important to ask questions and hear not just what the other person is telling you but also what they’re not telling you. It helps to understand their business needs.”

How do Aspiring Timber Marketing Managers get hands-on experience?

Gaining practical experience through internships is crucial, and we provide such opportunities through our summer internship programs.

These programs are designed to immerse upcoming foresters in the industry while providing valuable mentorship. Learn more about our internship programs here, and discover how you can be at the center of the action, gaining insights that will shape your future in timber marketing.

Future Opportunities in Timber Sales

The future of timber marketing holds exciting opportunities, including technological advancements and sustainable forest management practices.

Kevin, our Senior TMM in Washington State, says the forestry workforce is aging and will need new talent to fill these roles in coming years.

“Forestry is a good way to earn a living and support a family,” he says.

He and the other TMMs look forward to welcoming young foresters who want to broaden their skills and learn how to make the most out of every tree we grow.

We hope this article helped you understand the Timber Marketing Manager’s role, including a comprehensive understanding of the career path, responsibilities, and impact associated with forestry careers in timber marketing. If you’re interested in a TMM career at New England Forestry, you can learn more about working for us at neforestrydistribution.com/careers.

The post Exploring Careers in Forestry: What Does a Timber Marketing Manager Do? appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

There is an air reminiscent of the first day of school when 40 strangers sit down in the classroom together for the first time at the Hampton Inn in downtown Fernandina Beach. Instead of doing the teaching, today these school teachers, homeschoolers and one school principal are here to be the students. They have come from all over the state of Florida to learn about the forestry industry.

Some came to the Florida Forestry Teachers’ Tour with goals, wanting to get answers to questions they had about how the industry works; looking to incorporate forest-focused field trips into their curriculum; or wanting to learn about job opportunities to share with their students. Others came unsure what to expect but ready to learn.

By the end of the week, many of these same teachers will be in tears as the tour comes to a close. They will build friendships over long days outdoors. They will meet forestry workers who will change the way they see the world. And, as they will share with one another in a closing discussion, they will finish the week with a new level of respect for the industry that has such a huge impact on their lives—but that they had known so little about. Until now.

Day 1: A forestry legend sets the stage

There’s no one better than Ed Barnard to introduce newcomers to forestry. The retired forest pathologist has served as the tour’s emcee for more than 20 years. He is the first person the teachers meet.

“Prepare yourselves for an extravaganza of experience and exposure to the breadth and depth of the forestry profession,” Ed tells the group as he kicks off a presentation about the industry. “All the way from growing trees to processing trees into logs to creating pulp and paper, chemicals, cellulose, and lumber products. The complete picture and the whole cycle of regeneration, starting it all over again. The process from A to Z.”

Within minutes, it’s clear this isn’t the typical classroom-based continuing education program teachers are used to. In fact, they will be on a bus before 6:30 tomorrow morning, touring key components of the industry until after the sun sets.

And Ed will be there at every step. He’ll ride along with the teachers on the bus each day, answering questions and sharing his own perspective. He will share laughs and pull more than a few good-natured practical jokes. There’s also a good chance that, by the end of the week, he’ll fight back tears right alongside the teachers as they share how the tour has changed their perspectives.

Day 2: A mill, a burn, and a family farm

Now donning their forest boots and orange vests, the teachers are ready to experience the forestry industry up close and personal. The day begins in the West Fraser Sawmill in Whitehouse, Florida.

The teachers walk through the mill, watching how logs become lumber in a matter of minutes.

“Nothing goes to waste,” explains General Manager Jerome Worthy, pointing out that even the bark is used to create a mulch product and the sawdust is used in wood pellets.

Later this same morning, the teachers watch as a Florida Forest Service team demonstrates how controlled burns are used as a tool in forestry.

One teacher asks how wild animals fare in a controlled burn.

“If you watch during a burn, you’ll see the wildlife evacuate. Even the bugs! When the burn completes, you’ll see them come right back into that same forest,” a ranger answers.

The bus travels to several more sites before days’ end, giving the teachers a chance to see how the military manages forest land at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center; to see what a teaching forest is like at the University of Florida’s Austin Cary Forest; and to meet a family that has owned and managed the same farm for multiple generations.

“When people ask me what it would take for me to sell this land, I tell them, ‘I remember planting that forest with my grandfather. What price would you put on that?’” Kelly Mosley tells the teachers. “To us, it’s priceless.”

Day 3: Harvesting, sustainable forest management and some shocking revelations

As the sun is rising this morning, the tour bus is pulling into a harvest site so the teachers can see firsthand what happens when it’s time for trees to become products.

Watching as a heavy equipment operator systematically fells trees and sorts them for different logging trucks, the teachers have many questions about what happens during a timber harvest.

“How old are these trees?” “What kind of products will they become?” “When will this forest be replanted?”

Fernandina Beach High School Biology Teacher Angie Kindler writes notes as quickly as she can.

“Something that I had always questioned was a statistic about how many trees they plant to replace the ones that they harvest,” she says. “I got that answer today, so that’s something that I’ll be able to bring back to my students.”

In fact, in sustainable forestry, multiple trees are planted for every tree harvested.

Next, the bus goes deep into the forest for lessons about sustainable forest management led by New England Forestry foresters. The group discusses sustainability certification and what it takes to prove a forest is sustainably managed. They talk about the lifecycle of the forest. And they show how foresters protect water quality at every step.

Today also includes a pulp mill tour and a lesson about the incredible ways forest byproducts play a role in scent manufacturing.

Day 4: Reflecting on lessons learned

The tour wraps with a group discussion on the final morning. Everyone gets a chance to share how their perspectives about forestry have changed.

Before long, some are in tears, shocked at how much they didn’t know and ready to incorporate entirely new lessons about forestry into their curricula.

“I think the greatest takeaway for me has been, I didn’t really realize that companies and foresters are way more concerned about the environment than the public,” says Michelle Fisher, a high school biology teacher from Tampa. “The people that we’ve met on this tour, they don’t seem like they’re in it for the money and this kind of stuff. They seem like they’re bigger tree-huggers than I ever thought about being. And I thought I was a pretty big tree-hugger.”

While the tour slightly changes from year to year, it is always action-packed with experiences around many different aspects of forestry. The Florida Forest Service hosts it with support from the Florida Forestry Association, Project Learning Tree of Florida and Friends of Florida State Forests. Dozens of other companies and individuals also sponsor the tour.

To apply to participate in the Florida Forestry Teachers’ Tour, applicants should submit their answers to a questionnaire. A committee then reviews and chooses participants.

To learn more and apply, visit floridastateforests.org/teacherstour.

The post Florida teachers moved to tears by forestry-focused tour appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

Here we share seven of these generational businesses’ inspiring stories, showcasing their deep-rooted values and passion for the logging industry. Join us as we pay tribute to the significant contributions and remarkable legacies logging business from Washington state to Florida bring.

• Levanen Inc., Battle Ground, Washington
• Sevier Logging, LLC, Olympia, Washington
• Triple J Logging, Palatka, Florida
• Allen Brothers Forest Management, Arlington, Washington
• DM Stratton and 3D Trucking, LLC, Jacksonville, Florida
• Dilley & Soloman, Forks, Washington
• R.L. Smith Logging, Inc., Elma, Washington

Levanen Inc., Battle Ground, Washington

From a young age, Scott Levanen aspired to follow in his father’s footsteps as a professional in the logging industry. While working alongside his father, Scott gained valuable skills and logging experience. He later recognized a need for a local full-service logging company that could assist private landowners in maximizing the potential of their tree farms. In 1989, he partnered with his cousin Mark to establish Levanen Inc., which is dedicated to fulfilling this purpose.

Word spread quickly among landowners about the quality of Levanen Inc.’s services. The growing demand the company was experiencing resulted in a need for expansion of its workforce and equipment. This enabled them to take on larger logging projects. To sustain such growth, Levanen Inc. diversified their services, offering logging operations to both public and private timberlands.

Over time, Levanen Inc. has evolved into a well-rounded organization through partnerships with large landowners such as New England Forestry. These partners share a commitment to safer, more efficient, and technologically-advanced harvesting timber methods via cable assist and hydraulic grapple logging systems.

Scott’s father once advised him, saying, “Surround yourself with great people, and things will go well.” Thanks to this advice, Scott attributes his success to the partnerships, employees, vendors, and clients he has worked with over the years.

Currently, Levanen Inc. is owned and operated by Scott with the help of his two sons, Dale and Loren. In the future, Dale and Loren hope to purchase the company, carrying on the family legacy.

Sevier Logging, LLC, Olympia, Washington

Sevier Logging, LLC, is owned and operated by Jeff Sevier and his son, Justin. This well-established, third-generation company holds a rich logging history dating back over 70 years in the Pacific Northwest. Known for its sustainable forestry practices and excellent logging services, the company has built a strong reputation as a contractor for various timber companies. Partnerships have included Weyerhaeuser Company, New England Forestry Forest Resources, Green Diamond Resource Company, Harbor Timber/Quinault Partners for the Quinault Indian Tribe, Olympic Resource Management, and government sales at Fort Lewis.

Jeff inherited the business from his father Paul in 2000, continuing the family legacy. Justin, Jeff’s son, has been actively involved in the company for the past decade, working alongside his father and preparing to take ownership in the near future. “Working alongside my dad has been invaluable as I learn the ropes,” says Justin, prompting a smile from Jeff. “I’m so proud of Justin,” says Jeff, “He has embraced a leadership role and makes good, solid decisions. I couldn’t be any prouder of him!”

Sevier Logging, LLC, is rooted in responsible land stewardship and is dedicated to protecting the environment through sustainable forestry practices. Employee safety is also a priority for the company. Remarkably, Sevier Logging, LLC, has managed to avoid any serious accidents in its 70-year logging history.

Triple J Logging, Palatka, Florida

For JJ Sweat, it was important to create a logging business that would not only provide for his family today, but could become a legacy that would one day also provide for his son’s family.

He founded Triple J Logging Inc. in Palatka, Florida, in 2005.

Now a co-owner who works alongside his dad, JJ’s son Jess is learning firsthand how to operate the company.

Over the years, Triple J Logging has grown significantly, employing a dedicated team of 8 employees. The company has partnered with New England Forestry’s Florida Resource Unit as a logging contractor since about 2019.

Allen Brothers Forest Management, Arlington, Washington

Les and Rob Allen represent the second and third generations of their family’s logging legacy at the Hood Canal Tree Farm in East Jefferson County, Washington. In 1976, Les, with his two brothers Craig and Larry, founded Allen Brothers Logging on the Olympic Peninsula. Initially, the company focused on serving the Quilcene and Chimacum areas.

While Rob was growing up, he and his brother worked for their father periodically throughout their high school and young adult years. Although Rob pursued other career paths, he later returned to Allen Brothers Forest Management as a full-time logger in 2004. In response to their father’s dedication to the logging company, Rob’s sons later worked for him during their high school summer breaks. This allowed them the opportunity to gain valuable experience in operations and logging equipment maintenance. As potential fourth-generation loggers, they have a promising future ahead should they choose to continue with Allen Brothers Forest Management.

Both Les and Rob share many positive outlooks when it comes to working alongside family members. They both emphasize the deep familiarity and trust between family, noting that each member treats the company as their own. As they look to the future, Les and Rob are hopeful that the younger generation will decide to return and continue the family logging legacy.

DM Stratton and 3D Trucking, LLC, Jacksonville, Florida

For the Stratton family in Jacksonville, Florida, the common name between Dillon Stratton I, Dillon Stratton II and Dillon Stratton III is only one of the similarities the three generations share. They’re also all three passionate about logging and have worked together in their family businesses.

The youngest of the three, Dillon Stratton III, is the owner and operator of DM Stratton and 3D Trucking, LLC. Founded by his grandfather, Dillon Stratton I, both businesses have a strong family lineage. Together, the two companies employ a total of 18 employees. In addition to running the business, Dillon III holds the position of Vice President at the Southeastern Wood Producers Association. His father, Dillion II, received the distinguished Florida Logger of the Year award in 1995. Following in his father’s footsteps, Dillion III was also recognized, receiving the same honor in 2022.

Over the years, DM Stratton has developed an extensive partnership with New England Forestry, effectively managing multiple logging crews at the same time in our forests.

Dilley & Soloman, Forks, Washington

Dave Dilley began his logging journey while pursuing his high school education. At the time, he realized this particular career path was his true calling. Growing up in Forks, Washington, an area known for its beautiful outdoor landscape and the Olympic Peninsula, it seemed like a natural fit. Following his graduation, Dave spent 10 years logging alongside his uncle, a contractor working for New England Forestry. In 1987, he partnered with Lyn Soloman to establish Dilley & Soloman Logging. Together, they experienced substantial business growth.

Dave’s son, Mike, joined the company while still in high school, dedicating his summer breaks to working in the family business. After graduating in 2000 and pursuing a college degree for 2 years at Washington State University, he decided to forego his education and work at the business instead. Over the years, Mike has gradually worked his way through every aspect of logging operations, watching the industry shift and change. Notable changes included tower and shovel logging with grapple cars, tilting shovels, and tethering bunchers. The company has encouraged and embraced innovation, attributing to its great success.

Dave is confident that when he retires, Mike will carry on the family legacy and achieve great success.

R.L. Smith Logging, Inc., Elma, Washington

R.L. Smith Logging, Inc. has been in business now for 32 years, but its logging legacy dates back further than that. In 1932, Roger Smith’s paternal grandfather tragically died in a logging accident, leaving his wife and five young sons behind. Due to the accident, the family decided to set the logging industry aside for a while. But in 1980, Roger joined his uncle’s company, Grandorff Bros Logging, a small business of four brothers offering logging services to the high country of Grisdale.

In 1991, an economic downturn left Roger unemployed. Thankfully, an uncle offered to sell his portion of the business, leading to the establishment of Tagman-Smith Logging, Inc. With the help and support of Dick Tagman, R.L. Smith Logging, Inc. is still thriving to this day.

Because of Roger’s success and dedication to the family legacy, he was able to offer his nephew, Nate Murray, an opportunity to start his own venture: Roosevelt Logging Inc. In addition, Roger has worked alongside his brothers and brother-in-law for over 20 years. Roger values the teamwork, comradery, and accomplishments he and his family have achieved over the years. Now, R.L. Smith Logging Inc. is harvesting ground they logged in their early years.

“It is hard to imagine that our family history in the logging industry goes back almost 100 years,” says Roger.

New England Forestry’s Dedication to Supporting Local Family-Owned Logging Businesses

New England Forestry is proud to partner with these family-owned logging businesses. Founded on shared values and a deep appreciation for the forests, their knowledge of the industry and logging operations are critical to New England Forestry’s mission of sustainable forest management. With logging running through their blood, each company contributes its rooted and local expertise, specialized equipment, and talented workforce.

We value and express gratitude to each family-owned logging business represented at New England Forestry. Our work is only made possible with partnerships such as these. New England Forestry’s goal is to continue to support the ongoing success and resilience of these generational logging companies for years to come.

The post Celebrating Family Legacies: New England Forestry Pays Tribute to Generations of Loggers appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

Ebony Presha recently spent a week at Alabama A&M University talking about forestry with students at the historically Black school. 

Many of the bright students the New England Forestry Human Resources Specialist met were working on biology or environmental science degrees but didn’t know about corporate forestry as a career path. Most of them hadn’t even heard of New England Forestry. 

But after talking to Ebony, several applied for the company’s forestry internships and scholarships. Those face-to-face conversations made all the difference.

A Focus on Inclusion and Diversity in Forestry

Ebony’s role at New England Forestry is focused on creating greater awareness of forestry career opportunities and expanding diversity within the industry. This is a much-needed change in the industry, she says, because the vast majority of corporate forestry’s employees are white males. 

“I’m passionate about attracting underrepresented candidates to forestry,” says Ebony. “As the company becomes more culturally diverse, it becomes more marketable in all areas. And it opens the doors for different ideas and new relationships.”

Ebony has worked in HR for almost 20 years, the last six of which she spent running her own staffing business. She recruited for companies around the U.S., often targeting candidates from underrepresented groups to create more diverse company cultures. 

She understands the barriers companies face in expanding diversity. 

Raising Awareness About Career Paths Outside the Mainstream

“Students from underrepresented groups–a lot of times their story is more focused on survival,” says Ebony. “You know, ‘Let’s just get the basic education and possibly learn a trade,’ and then that’s it. A lot of it is a lack of information. They don’t have the knowledge of careers outside of the mainstream. Their parents and teachers don’t have the knowledge of these types of careers to present to the students.”

Some students she met on the Alabama A&M trip knew about forestry, but the only career path they’d been exposed to was to work for a government-based forest entity. They didn’t know about the rewarding careers offered in corporate forestry. 

Other students wondered how they would pay for graduate school and were excited to hear about scholarship opportunities. 

Ebony is happy that students from underrepresented groups seem eager to learn about forestry. But she says it’s also important to create an inclusive environment, one that welcomes people from diverse backgrounds. 

An Inclusive Work Environment is Critical for Diversity in Forestry

In her time as a staffing consultant, Ebony saw many companies lose new hires due to less inclusive work cultures. 

She says this is an issue the forestry industry needs to continue working on too. Some of the young candidates she’s reached out to have decided not to pursue corporate forestry careers because of negative experiences in internships and entry-level positions.

“One young African-American woman I spoke with was second-guessed, overlooked and even faced comments about her hair,” Ebony says. “She vowed she would never go back into corporate forestry after that.” 

Ebony also met a young African-American man who worked in an entry-level position. While working by himself in the woods, he was intimidated by people driving by and yelling racial slurs at him. 

While she hasn’t been subject to this kind of work environment, Ebony says she has had to reassure family members that she is safe. 

Ebony’s grandmother was worried about her when Ebony toured a New England Forestry forest. Her grandmother grew up in the South where she was afraid to be alone in the woods due to racially-motivated violence. 

“I told her ‘It’s 2023,'” Ebony says. “But her fear from when she was younger, it still exists today. I didn’t have any fear in the woods–except for snakes. I felt hope in those woods. It’s not the same woods my grandmother knew.”

Hopes for an Industry-Wide Change

Ebony’s hope for the future is that forestry becomes more inclusive for all employees.

“I feel that New England Forestry is a leader in diversity and inclusion in forestry,” Ebony says. “I haven’t seen this effort elsewhere. I’m hopeful that in time–because this does take time–that we will see change industry-wide. I hope to be able to say, ‘Wow, there’s so much opportunity for younger, underrepresented communities to come into forestry, learn and make it even better.'” 

The post HR specialist opens doors to more diversity in forestry appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

April Meeks is a forestry nerd—and she embraces the title proudly. The New England Forestry Tree Improvement Scientist and Research and Development Coordinator loves math, computer models and the outdoors. 

“I grew up in the woods,” says the North Carolina native. “My parents really fostered an environment for me to appreciate the environment—the trees and the plants and the animals.” 

Discovering Forestry

April began her education at Appalachian State University where she studied environmental science. She knew she wanted to work in some aspect of the outdoors or the environment, but it was pretty broad. Then, she discovered forestry and had what she describes as an “aha moment.” 

“I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, this is exactly what I need to be doing—working with trees!’” says April. “I learned how much you get to use math and take what you see in the environment and come back to the computer and run different analyses to make projections for what the future might hold.” 

Math, data science, outdoor adventure: forestry checked all her boxes, but April knew she’d need more education. That’s when she enrolled in the Master of Science in Forestry program at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. While there she focused on silviculture. April graduated with her MSc in Forestry in 2015 and decided to continue on at NCSU. She’s currently working toward a Ph.D. with a concentration in forest genetics. 

“My favorite thing about studying forestry is being able to learn about how a tree grows and everything that it takes to make a tree grow,” she says. “The more I learned, the more I wanted. I just couldn’t get enough. That’s why I kept pursuing degrees.”

The Forest as a Living Laboratory

NCSU is one of the country’s top forestry schools, and a big part of its success is students’ access to forest land used for hands-on research and training. NCSU students have access to 85,000 acres of land contained in the Hosley, Goodwin, Gates, Taylor, Timaca, Lee and Hofmann forests. The College of Natural Resources controls another 9,000 acres in the Hill, Schenck, and Bull Neck Swamp tracts. These living laboratories allow students to get out of the classroom and into the forests throughout the course of their education. 

Although she was not able to attend one, herself, April says NCSU’s summer intensive field camps have an excellent reputation. These summer studies, which involve traveling to several different forests, allow students to gain valuable practical knowledge and start to see what a career in forestry could look like.

“You cover everything in forestry in a hands-on manner,” April explains. “It’s that communication through hands-on learning that is really amazing.”

April was able to work for two forestry research cooperatives during her time as a graduate assistant at NCSU. 

“We would do intensive field work in small teams in different parts of the South,” she says. “One time, we were in Alabama in July outside and we were dying from the heat. So, I went and bought Popsicles for everybody. Basically, I said, ‘Go measure this rep, and then you can have a Popsicle’ to keep the team high-spirited and keep them going.”

April has a lot of fond memories of her time at NCSU, but it’s mostly because she truly loves the work.  

“It’s really fascinating to me to be able to take a living organism and correlate that to math, and then take that math and play with it and make projections with it,” she says. “It was the coupling of analytical skills with being outside in the fresh air—it was challenging. I am one of those personalities that need to be challenged and forestry fit the bill.” 

Women Welcome in Forestry

April was the first woman to graduate from Appalachian State with an environmental science degree, so she’s used to being the only woman in her classes. When she got to forestry school at NCSU, it wasn’t much different. 

“My classes in forestry school were all guys, my professors were all men, but I was really surprised at how welcomed I was into the community,” she says. “Everyone there was so excited that I was excited about forestry. The mentorship that I received was just superb. The community as a whole is very open and they just want to foster learning. It’s really a good community.”

Advice for Future Forestry Students

Now working for New England Forestry out of our Andalusia, Alabama, office, April has a very simple piece of advice for students considering whether to study forestry: “Do it. You won’t regret it.” 

“It’s really that simple for those interested in forestry, looking for something fast-paced and fun. There’s math behind it, policy behind it, and it’s a good way to challenge yourself to be a better steward of the environment too.” 

The post A “Forestry Nerd” and Loving It appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

Ask a dozen forestry students how they discovered their field, and at least half will tell you they never heard of forestry until college.

Looking for a career that makes a positive impact on the world, college students are increasingly drawn to environmental and nature-related studies across the U.S. However, forestry, one of the higher-demand, better-paying fields in the natural resources realm, is lesser-known.

“If you want to protect the environment, work with wildlife, improve water and air quality, and reduce carbon in the world around you, forestry offers all of those things,” says Shelby Pyatt, New England Forestry’s Vice President of Human Resources and IT. 

A Mission to Attract More Students to Forestry 

It’s New England Forestry’s hope that the next generation of students discover forestry sooner. The field offers a variety of opportunities for students, regardless of whether they’re the “outdoorsy” type.

“There are so many sides to it,” Shelby says. “There truly is something for everyone in this field.”

Forestry graduates have the option to work outdoors in the woods, or to dig deep into forecasting models and crunch numbers on what the future may hold as the trees grow. A forester may work in a public-private partnerships to protect important water sources or work to conserve a special forest where a rare plant thrives. Identifying and protecting wildlife habitat is an integral part of forestry. And tech lovers can actively use tools like LiDAR, drones and GIS mapping software.

In an effort to help students understand the rich breadth and depth of what forestry has to offer sooner, Shelby says New England Forestry is working to reach students at the high school and middle school level by partnering with schools, communities and other forestry organizations.

So What Exactly is Forestry? 

Forestry is a unique mix of art and science.

The science part uses biology, chemistry, math and ecology to inform a forester’s decisions about how best to care for the forest ecosystem. But, as explained by the University of Kentucky’s Forestry and Natural Resources site, science is only part of the decision-making process: 

Foresters must apply their knowledge in a decision-making arena where good solutions are not always obvious, conflicting human interests must be considered, and conflicting opinions must be compromised. This need for experienced judgment, diplomacy and tact constitutes the art of forestry.

“At New England Forestry, we provide our foresters with a lot of tools to get the data they need, but we also trust them to balance that with the experiences they have in the field,” Shelby explains. “They make thoughtful decisions that balance all of the factors involved.”

For example, a forester may consider data on the soil type, topography and wildlife habitat when deciding which type of trees to plant and what planting method to use in a particular area. But after walking in neighboring forests, the forester may observe something about the microclimate or the growth and health of neighboring trees that impacts that plan.

What Types of Careers Can Foresters Choose? 

The best thing about a career in forestry, according to Craig Blair, President and CEO of Resource Management Service, is that there really is a place for everyone—no matter their interests, skill sets, or career goals. 

“You don’t have to have a history of love for the outdoors or exposure to the outdoors to find a great career in forestry,” he says. “No matter what your talents are, there’s a career path in this business because it is just so diverse.” 

This chart outlines some of the options, depending on a student’s area of interest:

The way Blair sees it, the possibilities are many and the future is bright.

“Right now, it is a seller’s market if you’re a smart forestry graduate, and it’s been that way for a while. … I think there are a lot of growth areas in this field that will create opportunities for bright, passionate people to have challenging careers to look back on when they’re done and feel like they’ve made a difference.”

Lack of Awareness One of the Biggest Challenges in Forestry

It’s an interesting field, but one where most of the work takes place deep in the woods, where few get to see how it works. Many forestry representatives have an uphill climb when introducing future college students to the field.

“I went to speak at a high school in Knightdale, North Carolina,” recalls Sam Cook, executive director of forest assets at NC State University. “I bet you it was close to 75 kids, and 90 percent were minorities. They were only talking about environmental science and social justice. They had no knowledge of the word forestry.” 

Sam is working to build a program with that same school focused on forest literacy and introducing high schoolers to the concept of a career in forestry. Having “stumbled upon” forestry, himself, more than 30 years ago, he relishes spreading the word about forestry degrees and careers. 

“Forestry was not even on my radar when I was their age, but it’s been the best thing that ever happened to me in my whole career,” he says. 

When he was in high school, Sam’s sister encouraged him to look into a forestry degree at Tuskegee University, where he could leverage his love of the outdoors into a meaningful career. It wasn’t until his second year in the program during an internship with International Paper that he realized he’d been living in a forestry household all along. 

“My dad and brother both worked for a paper mill. I had no idea that the forest industry was impacting what they do every day, because nobody came home and talked about what they did,” he says. “That internship opened my eyes to the connecting points between trees being grown and harvested, delivered to a mill, processed and coming out with a finished product. And I could see myself in the food chain.”

Sam finished his forestry degree at NC State and built a career working across the forestry industry for private companies, nonprofit organizations and the government before taking his role in forestry education. 

Is Forestry A Viable Path? 

Once students are introduced to forestry as a possible degree, Sam likes to walk students and their parents or caregivers through the ins and outs of a degree in forestry. He often finds himself in conversation around a table with a parent who wants their child to be a doctor, lawyer or engineer. It’s his job to introduce them to an equally viable career path in forestry. 

“I shape what we do in forestry around those three aspects: We offer forest engineers, forest ecologists, forest biologists. You can be a forester and get into social science if you want to just do research and deal with people,” he says. “I’ll walk through the many types of jobs and opportunities as it relates to forestry, and I showcase to them the many different people out there that are doing these jobs with a forestry degree.”

As for earning potential, Sam lays it out clearly for potential students and their caregivers. 

“If you come out your first year and you start working for the government, you may end up with a salary offer of about $35,000 to $40,000 with benefits,” he says. “In private industry, a typical starting salary is somewhere between $55,000 and—if they have a master’s—it can get as high as $65,000. How many people leave their first year and possibly get a brand-new vehicle, a paid cell phone, and a good salary? And to get to be out in the woods and set your own day?”

It’s not just “cutting trees”

Sam says misconceptions about what foresters do and even what the industry stands for has been one of the toughest challenges in attracting students. 

“Most people, when they think about forestry, it is no different than what I was thinking about when I was growing up,” he says. “The forester to me was the person out there cutting the trees.”

And isn’t cutting trees a bad thing?

In truth, foresters by trade are committed to understanding forest ecosystems and working out sustainable ways to use and replace forest materials. Foresters plant multiple trees for every tree they harvest, then nurture that crop for decades before the logs go to market. And only so many trees are cleared from one area at a time, ensuring the ecosystem remains for wildlife.

Meanwhile, the products from the forest end up everywhere: from the wood used to build furniture and houses, to paper products like toilet paper and cardboard, to 1000s of lesser-known products that depend on the forest, such as diapers, touch screen phones, medicines, paints, bath products and countless others. Is it any wonder the field is in such high demand?

Changing misconceptions can be slow work, and Sam believes it should start even before students are picking a college major. One organization making headway in student education is the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. In 2017, SFI partnered with Project Learning Tree to create a forest literacy and environmental education curriculum designed for early childhood, elementary, middle and high school students. 

“That really helps change the narrative as it relates to what we do every day,” says Sam.

As students become more aware of the importance of forestry in their everyday lives, perhaps more will see the potential in studying forestry.

“It’s a rewarding industry to be a part of,” says New England Forestry’s Shelby. “You’re doing so much good for the environment, providing so many products consumers need, and you’re doing it all in a sustainable way.”

The post The Little-Known Field that Protects the Environment and Pays Well appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama—Whether guiding a helicopter landing on a ship, or fighting a raging forest fire on a mountainside, DeShaun Mincey thrives when he’s in the middle of the action.

That’s what attracted the New England Forestry Technical Forester to pursue a forest science degree. 

“Other students just sit in class all day, but in forestry we’re in the forest, walking around, driving ATVs, traveling. We have a good time,” says the Alabama A&M graduate.

A Uvaldia, Georgia, native, DeShaun hadn’t heard of forestry when he started college as an environmental science major.

A Unique Team of Wildland Firefighters

Then he met the school’s wildland firefighting team, the FireDawgs. Most of the members were forestry students. DeShaun applied for the team—and switched majors—that day.

The FireDawgs are one of the only college forest firefighter teams in the state of Alabama. Trained by the Alabama Forestry Commission, they fight wildfires, manage controlled burns and educate the public on fire prevention.

Learn more about the team in our interview with FireDawgs President Jonathan Brown, AAMU FireDawgs Fight and Prevent Alabama Wildfires.

DeShaun quickly confirmed that the team, and forestry, were the perfect fit. From a very early age, he hunted with his grandfather and developed a passion for the outdoors. Add to that the excitement of the wide variety of responsibilities foresters take on, including fire prevention and management, and he knew he was in the right place.

“We do a lot,” he said. “We build maps, study soil science, take site indexes to see how well a tree can grow on different sites. We cruise forests to determine the value of the timber. We do prescribed burns, wetland studies. I enjoy it all.”

A Military Discipline

DeShaun is known for his disciplined approach to continuing to make himself better in school and in life.

“I got that drive from the military,” he says.

DeShaun served in the U.S. Navy for four years. Joining right after high school, he rose in the ranks to become a helicopter mechanic. Working aboard the carrier ship U.S.S. Roosevelt, he not only repaired and inspected helicopters, but also directed their landings when the carrier was out to sea.

Volunteering with the Fire Dawgs

After his four years in the Navy wrapped up, DeShaun started college. It was not long after the school year started that he tried out for the Fire Dawgs. It wasn’t easy to make the team: each member has to pass an intense agility test, carrying a 45 lb. pack across 3 miles in 45 minutes.

“Last fall we fought a fire on the side of a mountain,” DeShaun recalls. “We hopped on it before the U.S. forest service came.

“Our job was to put in fire lines to stop the fire from jumping the field. We used chainsaws, rakes and garden hoes.”

Advice for future students

DeShaun highly recommends studying forestry.

“Look into it!” he says. “You get to travel all the time, you’re outside a lot, it’s never boring. It’s a great career field.”

He says the Alabama A&M Forestry faculty actively presents opportunities to students.

“They were always coming to us with places we could go, scholarships we could apply for,” he says. “I traveled to so many places while I was in college: Texas, Louisiana, Kentucky, North Carolina.”

Why all the travel? Forestry students need to experience forests in different climates, so they often travel for classes. They also attend national forestry conferences and a special annual event called Conclave, in which they compete in both academic and “lumberjack” style events. You can learn more about the action-packed competition in our article about the 2019 Conclave in Louisiana, which DeShaun attended.

DeShaun says the forestry industry will continue to become more diverse as more youths learn about the field.

“Sometimes I wonder how people never heard of it. Everything is made of wood!” he says. 

Working for New England Forestry

DeShaun graduated in December 2020 and immediately began his job as a technical forester at New England Forestry’s Jesup, Georgia, location.

“My favorite quote is, if you’re distracted, you’re not focused,” DeShaun says. “So I focus and work hard on becoming the best forester and overall individual I can be. I enjoy working for New England Forestry and the Coastal Resource Unit. I’ve learned a lot from my supervisor and colleagues in the short amount of time I’ve been here. This job is by far the best job I ever had.”

The post Forestry Puts Alabama A&M Grad In the Middle of the Action appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

CALLAHAN, Florida—Most of the work in the forestry industry is done out of public view, deep in the forest, so it’s no wonder many school children don’t know a lot about forestry.

A group of more than two dozen forestry-related businesses here in Nassau County came together to change that, hosting Northeast Florida’s first-ever Forestry Career Day at the Northeast Florida Fairgrounds in September 2019.

Just under 200 high school juniors and seniors were immersed in forestry career experiences throughout the day, trying their hands at operating heavy equipment, researching genetics and even flying drones.

The theme of the day: there’s a forestry career for everyone and every level of education, whether you’re looking for something you can do with on-the-job training only, or with a Ph. D. 

“There are so many facets to working in forestry,” says Jody Davis, New England Forestry’s Manager of Human Relations and Talent Acquisition. “There are jobs from operational equipment operators to foresters, who are the science behind the growth and the replanting of trees.”

A Rising Demand for Forestry Heavy Equipment Operators

Employers are experiencing a rising need for employees in the operational side of the industry, which includes work such as operating heavy equipment and driving log trucks. New England Forestry Senior Resource Land Manager Ed Carter, who came up with the idea to host the event, says these jobs are ideal for students who don’t want to attend a four-year college program.

“There are vital jobs out there,” he says. “We want to reach all those students and let them know, in the forestry industry, you can make a great living and a career even though you don’t get a four-year degree.”

Several local heavy equipment operator employers, including Tim-Prep, Bobcat of Jacksonville and Conner + Conner Logging, allowed students to sit in the driver’s seat of their equipment, operating a skid steer, a mini excavator and even moving logs with a loader.

Students also learned firsthand from foresters about their role in the forest, from grafting and genetics to maintaining water quality and protecting wildlife. Representatives from colleges including the University of Florida, University of Georgia and Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College talked to students about their offerings for forestry degree programs.

There were also hands-on lessons about GIS mapping, a field the industry depends on to ensure data is accurate on each stand of trees.

Jim Tootle, a Senior Forester for the Florida Forest Service, says learning about forestry at this stage in their lives can help students get a good start in the industry.

“When I enrolled in the forestry program, I had no clue what I was getting into. I just knew I wanted to work outdoors,” he recalls, “so I didn’t really know how to focus my studies in a particular direction that I wanted to go. Something like this may give a student an idea of what direction they want to go in the forestry industry.” 

Forestry a Major Industry in Florida

In Florida, forestry is a critical industry. In fact, forest land accounts for almost half of Florida’s total land area. The forestry industry employs 124,000 people and contributes $25 billion to the state’s economy every year, according to the Florida Forestry Association. 

Representatives from the production side of forestry, including New England Forestry Advanced Materials and Westrock, taught students about the many items in their typical day that come from the forest and how they are made. More than 5,000 everyday forest products play a key role in our daily lives, including lumber, plywood and papers and cardboards, as well as items with a lesser-known wood component, such as LCD screens, rubber tires, bath products, even diapers. You can learn more about why trees are used in so many products by checking out our #ItStartsWithTrees articles.

To learn more about Forestry careers, visit New England Forestry’s Forestry Careers Resources page, which explains what different forestry careers are and links to schools, vocational programs and other resources for future foresters, at https://www.neforestrydistribution.com/careers/career-resources/.

The post First Forestry Career Day in Northeast Florida a Success appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

HOQUIAM, Washington—No one asked Zack Jones to build a system that would change the way we work. We didn’t even know it could be done. But thanks to our New England Forestry culture, which encourages employees to challenge the status quo and seek new ways to solve problems, no one got in the way when he decided to try.

Zack, the Manager of Forestry Systems on our IT team, took the initiative to build a real-time reporting tool that’s become a game-changer for the forestry team. He saw the need within the organization for better reporting and visualization around the company’s mobile land management software system and he did something about it.

The Inspiration For A New Reporting Tool

“We needed a good interface to give the employees on the ground their reports,” Zack explains. “I was working on the mobile load project, where we were updating from old handheld devices to iPads, and I realized the end-users had to go to the website, type in a query, and go to the bottom of the site to see how many loads they’d have to run for the day.

“The old handheld devices didn’t sync as often and the load data wasn’t updated in real-time, so they’d have to check back late in the day. So, they’d get the load count, destination and products, but it was cumbersome to use and hard to visualize—and that’s where the power of charts come in.”

Zack realized he could easily fix the issue by using visualization software to organize the data into a real-time, intuitive and user-friendly interface.

“We’re still using the exact same data the website had,” he says, “but this system allows you to filter it by products, mill, contractor, sale, mill quotas, date ranges for the day, week, month or year, etc. from your PC, smartphone or iPad and shows you the data in easy-to-read charts and graphs.”

Letting Departments Set Custom Alerts

Zack explains how the tool empowers each department to better track data: “You can build an alert so members on your team can see when there’s a voided ticket or set notifications for quotas so everyone receives an email once that quota has been met.”

The app updates live and, since it’s cloud-based, it reduces the load on the servers.

“It’s very interactive and you don’t have to wait for results or wait until you get to the office to view the information.”

The main benefits:

●       It saves tons of time by allowing users to access information in-the-field in real-time

●       It helps the sales and marketing team on the mill side to better negotiate prices

●       It gives a better understanding of where loggers are with current production

●       And it’s incredibly affordable

Who Is Benefitting From The New Tool?

Since its inception, the app has gone from about 40 users to over 120. It has become a major efficiency tool for on-the-ground employees who manage contractors, loggers, mill negotiators and marketing and sales teams.

“I think this is a really good example of people being able to do what they do best,” says Pacific Resource Unit Leader Bill Monahan. “Here you have a situation where Zack, on his own initiative, went out and used this software to design a really cool tool the foresters really use. But what’s really cool is the compliance foresters and timber marketing managers can look at this data any time they want throughout the day, and I just think it’s awesome.

Senior Accounting Manager Kevin Leep agrees: “It’s really impressive to see somebody like Zack, who had a passion for something, did some study, and the way people responded to it was very gratifying. He didn’t have to do that, but he still did, and it indicates the kind of people we have working at New England Forestry.”

“I use it all day every day,” says Senior Timber Marketing Manager Dan Stransky. “It’s such a powerful tool to be able to click on and see at-a-glance exactly what you need.”

“Zack is a person who’s always going out of his way to make things better, to help people do their jobs better and to anticipate things people may not even realize they need,” says IT Director Adam Brown.

How Zack Found New England Forestry and What He Loves Most About His Career

As fate would have it, Zack grew up in Montesano, Washington, about 10 miles from New England Forestry’s Hoquiam office. He attended the local community college, got his degree in GIS and started with New England Forestry as a GIS technician.

Throughout the years, he moved up through managing data in the GIS group and moved into IT, where he now works as Manager of Forestry Systems.

When asked what he loves most about his job, he says: “They treat me really well and I enjoy what I do.I love being able to manage and work on the systems that help people and the business. It’s a flexible job that works well for my family. Plus, my wife and I are both from Washington state and enjoy the lifestyle here with our children.”

Recognition for a Job Well-Done

Zack was recognized with an award for fostering continuous learning, innovation and creativity. 

“I was thrilled and surprised by how useful people feel it’s been to them,” Zack says. “It’s truly one of the fastest tools I’ve ever built! But it’s impressive what you can build to help fulfill a need, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot. It’s a great tool.”

The post New England Forestry IT Manager Creates “Game-Changer” for Forestry Team appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana—A towering, 20-foot wooden pole with a smooth, slippery surface seemed impossible to conquer when the 62nd annual Southern Forestry Conclave kicked off its pole-climbing competition last weekend.

One student after the next attempted the climb, but some couldn’t get their feet to stay on the pole at all. Others struggled to make it half-way, their bodies visibly shaking from the effort. One fell off. A few finally made it.

Crushing the Southern Forestry Conclave Pole Climb

Then came a student from Stephen F. Austin University who had clearly done this before. He shimmied up the pole, slapped the sack of chalkdust on top to signal timekeepers to stop their watches, and whipped back down before his climbing time could even be announced: he had crushed the pole climb in an incredible 4.685 seconds.

His classmates let out cheers of triumph, waving a massive school flag above their heads as he was pronounced the winner. But it was only the beginning. Still to come were competitions in axe and knife throwing, swaing, pole felling and even log birling, in which contestants try to outlast each other while running atop a spinning log in a lake (shown below).

Like a Lumberjack Competition

Conclave, featuring timber sport events reminiscent of a lumberjack competition, is an action-packed tradition that has lasted more than 60 years. This year’s event on March 21-24, 2019, attracted 250 college students from 15 universities across the South. LSU’s Society for American Foresters Student Chapter hosted the event at LSU’s AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden.

Technical Challenges and Physical Competitions

The competition kicked off Friday with technical challenges relating to forestry, like photogrammetry (examining and interpreting aerial photos), tree diameter estimation, tree identification and compass and pacing (using a compass and chain to locate a specific point). Then came the physical competitions:

• Crosscut sawing
• Bowsaw
• Axe throw
• Knife throw
• Chain throw
• Archery
• Log chop
• Pole fell
• Log rolling
• Archery

Proud to Sponsor this Event

New England Forestry was proud to be a sponsor of the event, passing out sunglasses, sunscreen and other supplies to the students and talking forestry with them. We cheered on several former New England Forestry interns as well as some future interns who will be joining New England Forestry this summer.

When the results of all the competitions were in, it was announced that Stephen F. Austin came in first place overall, followed by the University of Arkansas at Monticello in second and Clemson University in third.

We can’t wait to see everyone again at next year’s conclave!

The post Axes, Saws and Running on Logs at Southern Forestry Conclave appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

Ask Kim Sartor’s boss, and he’ll tell you she is the “glue” that connects New England Forestry to its communities.

Mike Bell says Kim, New England Forestry’s Community Affairs Manager, epitomizes community giving. Her words and behaviors each day reflect how much she cares for her colleagues, New England Forestry and the communities where we live and work. In addition to supporting the Public Affairs department, she manages the New England Forestry Community Fund, juggling requests and energizing others to volunteer.

Mike, who is New England Forestry’s Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, recognized Kim’s can-do attitude when he asked her to join his team. Her big heart and innate sense of compassion made her the ideal person for the position.

“If I could clone her, I would,” jokes her coworker Dan Roach, director of Public Affairs. “She always responds cheerfully and if she doesn’t know how to do something, she will figure it out and put in the time it takes to get the job done.”

Kim’s typical week consists of overseeing grant applications, working on sponsorship opportunities and managing the Community Fund. Kim forecasts, budgets, screens applications and fields calls about how to spend dollars set aside for community investment. Her talent also includes connecting New England Forestry employees’ time, talent and energy with volunteer opportunities that match their strengths. Even outside of the typical work week, Kim often spends her evenings and weekends at company-sponsored events.

Her work spans the United States, from the annual grant breakfast supporting the work of non-profit agencies in the Pacific Northwest to the weekend she spends each year volunteering at the Mail Carriers’ Food Drive in Fernandina Beach, Florida.

“Participation is contagious when Kim is involved,” says Mike. “There is a blood mobile that has been coming to our offices for years. Kim started that!”

Kim’s passion for the blood drive stems from her own experience: a blood transfusion that saved her life years ago. She says New England Forestry’s bimonthly blood drives have the potential to save dozens of lives per-year. Kim doesn’t just enlist employees to support the blood drive, she also distributes flyers to neighbors, such as the FSCJ Nassau Campus, Nassau County Courthouse, Nassau County Sheriff’s office and Wildlight Elementary.

Because of Kim, New England Forestry volunteers read to elementary students during the school year through the Family Support Services reading program, Doggone Good Readers, which encourages public library usage and reading while improving literacy for children. Kim also attends monthly Board meetings for the Amelia Island Book Festival & Authors in Schools Literacy Program, where she assists with writing and reading workshops for older students.

Kim also oversees a tradition at New England Forestry to support the Angel Tree toy drive in which foster children in Nassau County, FL, receive gifts during the holidays when they haven’t traditionally received much.

“Our 150 employees immediately said ‘yes’ to step up and team up to grant wishes for these children during the holidays. Last year we supplied more than 350 gifts for needy children,” Kim says. “All I am is the facilitator. I’m just very honored to be able to do what I do. God has given me a shining light to get people motivated to help others.”

Many school-age children in Nassau County experience food insecurity, not knowing if they will have food on the weekends. Kim organized New England Forestry employees to help restock a food pantry and assemble hundreds of nutritious meal packs for children through Barnabas Nassau, a multi-faceted crisis assistance for families. Kim, who grew up in a blended family with 9 children, says, “We could have used programs like Barnabas, but I don’t recall there being services like this when I was young.” Robert Peck, Barnabas’s Food Program Manager, says he appreciates that New England Forestry employees not only lend a hand, but show up organized, efficient and won’t leave until the job is done.

While Kim doesn’t dictate where dollars are spent in other locations in the New England Forestry footprint, she ensures the money is well-placed, meaningful and directly impactful. “I’m proud to know that the money we’re giving away is staying in the communities where we work and making a difference,” she says.

Employees often see updates from Kim on New England Forestry’s internal social network, The Landing. She shares pictures from all over the country of volunteer events to let all employees know what agencies and programs New England Forestry supports. Kim works with coworkers to help children through education and youth development programs such as book festivals, literacy, after-school programs, volunteer mentor programs and summer camps. She finds programs that help teachers through conservation training workshops and enhanced educational opportunities in the various states New England Forestry is in.

Kim says she learned from her family to follow her passion, and that’s just what her job at New England Forestry enables her to do. She loves seeing how that work reflects on those it impacts.

“I’ve seen people cry learning about how invested our company is in their community,” she says. “It’s inspiring and humbling to see our company dollars at work in these communities. There’s such pride in knowing that New England Forestry cares.”

The post A Career Focused on Community Giving appeared first on New England Forestry Stories.

WILDLIGHT, Florida—With coworkers from diverse backgrounds like genetic research, various forestry disciplines, finance, IT and business, Nate Osborne knew New England Forestry employees could gain a lot by learning from each other.

“I looked around and thought, ‘Look at all these people who are right here, subject matter experts, some of the best at what they do on the continent,’” says Nate, a Biometrics Project Leader who studied forestry throughout the U.S., France and Finland before joining New England Forestry.

Learning From Our Own Talented People

Harkening back to the inspirational discussions he had taken part in during college, Nate seized the opportunity to collaborate with a grassroots approach: he set up his own version of a “TED Talk” and presented on his greatest passion, forest biometrics, to a group of about a dozen coworkers. When he was finished speaking, they bounced ideas around, and the result was inspiring.

“Put people in a room together. That’s all you have to do,” Nate says. “Think about how just an hour or two of your time could really change things.”

The New England Forestry Peer Group Grows

The New England Forestry Peer Group has continued to grow in attendance since then, with several dozen New England Forestry employees participating in the monthly meet-ups. Each month has a different featured speaker who talks for about 40 minutes, inspiring the group to then discuss the topic. Thanks to video conferencing, presenters and attendees can participate wherever they are within New England Forestry’s ownership, from Florida to New Zealand.

Action Plan Not Required

Nate, shown in the photo above, stresses these meetings are meant to inspire people to see new perspectives and learn from each other, not to formulate a plan of action.

“We keep away from the typical PowerPoint presentation. The goal is to share an experience or idea you’re passionate about. We leave tons of time for questions and encourage a really open dialogue the whole time.”

Discussing The Future of Forestry

One of his favorite presentations was by New England Forestry’s Vice President of Forest Research, Production and Sustainability Tom Fox about the future of forestry. Other speakers highlighted the many hats a Resource Unit Leader wears, New England Forestry’s approach to genetics, why sustainability matters to timber REIT investors, and many others.

One of our key values at New England Forestry is to collaborate across disciplines as a team that truly is One New England Forestry. We’re grateful for employees like Nate, who seek out ways to strengthen the bonds across the New England Forestry team.

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YULEE, Florida—How do you teach a class of teachers a lesson they’ll never forget? You do exactly what they would do: invite them to touch, see, hear and—most importantly—ask questions.

Each year, 45 Florida school teachers are selected for the 4-day Florida Forestry Teachers’ Tour, where they experience sustainable forestry firsthand. Offered by the Florida Forestry Association in concert with the Florida Forest Service, Project Learning Tree of Florida and Friends of Florida State Forests, the tour includes real-life demonstrations like a timber harvest, a controlled burn and processing at a paper mill.

The hope is that what’s learned on the tour informs the lessons teachers offer their students about sustainable forestry. Only 10 percent of the world’s forests are certified sustainable, which means the landowners protect wildlife, water quality and soil quality. New England Forestry, which follows best practices on 100% of its land, takes part in the tour, hosting the teachers for half a day on our land.

Learning about Sustainable Forestry on New England Forestry Land

“Listen! What do you hear out here?” New England Forestry Sustainable Forestry Manager Ben Cazell asked a group of teachers on a recent tour. They were crowded around him for a presentation in the middle of one of our Nassau County, Florida, forests.

The answers came back: Cicadas! Insects! Frogs! Birds!

“It’s a community,” Cazell concluded, explaining New England Forestry’s sustainable forestry practices help protect the wildlife that lives within our forests.

The teachers learned about research advances that have improved New England Forestry’s production over the years. Resource Land Manager Josh Steiger explained that our improvements in site preparation, fertilization and other practices like controlled pollination have significantly improved what we can do with one acre of land.

“We grew under 50 tons per acre in the 1940s. By 2010, our tonnage was over 200 per acre,” Steiger said.

Learning How New England Forestry Uses GIS to Make Decisions

Technical analyst Hillary Sherrill explained how New England Forestry’s in-house Geographic Information System, or GIS, plays a role in our decision-making process.

“Say there’s a forester who wants 12-year-old loblolly pine trees within 25 miles of a certain mill, but it’s the wet season so he needs to be sure they’re dry. We can help with that,” she said, explaining our in-house system contains multiple layers of data about each stand of trees’ size, age, soils, elevation, and more.

Technical analyst Sara Bellchamber showed the teachers how New England Forestry uses drones to gather data and save time in the field, and Senior GIS Programmer Greg Day taught the teachers how to survey a stand of trees using a prism and a clinometer.

The teachers joined Timber Marketing Manager Rusty Cobb for a timber harvest, watching mature trees being harvested as he explained that — once a stand is clear cut — work immediately begins to prep the site for the next generation of trees.

The teacher tour is a favorite event of the year for the Florida Forest Service’s Jacksonville District Manager, Jenn Hart, who organizes it.

“These teachers deserve some special time, this is our opportunity to give back to them,” she said.

The last day of the tour, when each teacher speaks about what he or she has learned, is one of the most memorable parts for Hart. The day is often filled with emotions and even tears as the teachers talk about what they will take back to the classroom from their hands-on lesson in the forest.

To learn more about the Florida Forestry Teachers’ Tour, visit floridastateforests.org/teacherstour.

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