adventures at WFI

Family Forestland Tour

2010-01-20T15:05:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday our fellows, interns, and program manager visited the private forest of Anne and Richard Hanshu. The Hanshu’s own approximately 500 acres of forest in the Gales Creek area, just west of Portland. They have owned and managed the land for over 50 years and continue to manage it so they can pass it on to their children. They were voted Oregon Tree Farmers of the Year back in 2000 and manage their property for timber, wildlife, and riparian health, and aesthetics. They are trying to find a way to economically sustain their property and are considering entering the emerging carbon market. The link for the YouTube video shows them on CNN's Business Weekly program talking about this aspect of their forest.

YouTube Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJwlJIMb1Js

Hanshu's Website

http://www.doneen.com/

We enjoyed friendly hospitality and an honest assessment of their forest management practices. They took us through thinned stands, replanted stands, and restored riparian areas.

“I’m impressed that just two people are managing the forest this intensely. The Hanshu’s seem to know every tree on their property and to work nonstop between pruning, planting, harvesting, building, educating, and advocating. What struck me visually is how similar their stands look after different amounts of thinning. They have a beautiful forest.” –Danielle, intern

“Learning about how to protect riparian areas is important to me because I haven’t seen this practice in the Congo. I learned that it is important to create shade along the creek to block the light so the creek remains cool for the fish.” -Elikia, fellow from the DR Congo.
We thank Anne and Richard and hope to be back soon!
Click on the picture for more photos.

New fellow from Australia and a trip to the classical Chinese gardens

2010-01-15T16:50:00.000-08:00

Our newest fellow, Sue Baker arrived a week ago from Hobart, Tazmania in Australia. She is a biodiversity researcher at Forestry Tasmania, and she comes to the WFI to study Variable Retention Silviculture (VRS). “VRS is a new silviculture system designed to retain the structural diversity of timberlands. If you clear cut a forest, say on rotation every 80 years, you never get old growth structure. The idea is to preserve biodiversity and create habitat trees for beetles, nesting possums, birds, and other species. VRS was invented in the Pacific Northwest and is widely practiced in British Columbia. There are two main types of VRS practices: dispersed retention and aggregated retention. A relatively new practice in Australia, aggregated retention silviculture just emerged in Tasmania in 2004.”

Sue joined fellows Aline and Elikia and program manager Chandalin at the Portland Classical Chinese Gardens in old-town Chinatown on Thursday. Not only did they not get rained on, but they were lucky enough to see a little bit of sun!

WFI welcomes 2010!

2010-01-07T15:39:00.001-08:00

Greetings from the WFI!

2009 is over, and what a year it was! We hosted fellows from Australia, Zambia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, China, Germany, Brazil, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We got a new program manager and several new interns. Now it’s time to look ahead to what’s in store for 2010. Soon we’ll be getting another fellow from Australia, Sue Baker. We will start having monthly ‘cultural Portland’ afternoons where we explore the local sites and history of the City of Roses. First up is a trip to the classical Chinese gardens in Old-Town Chinatown.

Again this year we will host the International Educators Institute forest study tour (see below for details) and Who Will Own the Forest? 6. Keep on the lookout for more updates about these events, as well as posts about field trips and new fellows.

Ciao!

International Educators Institute

Term: July 11-16, 2010

Apply by: February 28, 2010

The International Educators Institute is an innovative forest study tour for environmental educators and forest researchers. Combining content-rich, hands-on experiences in the field with a multicultural exchange of best practices in education and research, IEI seeks to advance effective teaching and learning about social, economic, and environmental challenges facing the world’s forests. World-class scenery, special behind-the-scenes tours, and interviews with local people are combined with peer-to-peer leadership development.

The course is scheduled July 11-16, 2010 in Portland, Oregon. Application deadline is Feb. 28, 2010.
For more information visit: http://www.worldforestry.org/wfi/dm_institute.php

WFI Says Goodbye to Three Outstanding Fellows

2010-01-07T14:05:00.000-08:00

As the fall season comes to a close and we progress into the winter months, WFI bids goodbye to German fellow Kati Brueckner, Chinese fellow Shouxin Xie, and Taiwanese fellow Yu-jen Lin. They all contributed so much to our program during their time here and will be greatly missed.

Kati returned home to Berlin in November with her husband Steffen and daughter Clara in tow after completing her six month fellowship here. A week after her return home, Kati writes that she was still recovering from jet lag, but very excited to share all the pictures of the wonderful things she saw here with her family. During her fellowship, Kati worked to understand the social and scientific complexities surrounding the creation and implementation of the NW Forest Plan. She interviewed numerous people directly involved with the plan and discovered the many intricacies that made it one of the landmark forest management decisions of its time. More about the results of her study can be found on the WFI website in the presentations and posters sections.

German Fellow Kati Brueckner at Harry
Merlo’s ranch in summer 2009.

Xie returned to Beijing in early December to a happy homecoming with his wife and son. He says that he is happy to be with his family again and also happy that he “…does not have jet lag problem at all!” (Kati would be jealous!)
Xie will resume work as the Division Director for the Department of Forest Resource Management at China’s State Forestry Administration after a short break to readjust to being back at home after a year’s absence. Xie spent his year at WFI studying policy and management styles of sustainable forestry and will use the knowledge gained during his fellowship to help guide decisions back home. Already, he is looking back fondly on his time here at WFI and writes that everything he learned during his time here he will share and apply to his work and life in the future.

Chinese fellow Shouxin Xie at the USFS Dorena
Genetic Resource Center in Cottage Grove.

Yu-jen is our most recent departee, leaving just after the Christmas holiday for home in Taipei. He is happy to be back at home with is wife, but also misses Portland and the WFI. After spending nearly a year here studying biomass utilization processes, Yu-jen returned home with a research proposal in hand, ready to present to his work unit at the Taiwan Forestry Research Institute. Yu-jen did exhaustive research regarding methods and materials used for forest biomass utilization in the Pacific Northwest. His research led him to the idea of using the bamboo resources readily available in Taiwan to make wood pellets for energy. He will propose this research upon his return to work and hopes to propel Taiwan towards the biomass utilization industry.

Taiwanese fellow Yu-jen Lin with his wife
Tsai Ling-chuan outside WFI’s Merlo Hall.

Ned Hayes Remembered, Long Time Friend of WFC

2010-01-07T13:44:00.000-08:00

Long time friend and director of the World Forestry Center Edmund Hayes Jr. passed away on December 2 at age 83 following a stroke. Ned and his family, including son Peter Hayes, took great personal interest in the WFI. They annually hosted fellows and staff and led tours of their FSC certified woodland properties near Portland. Ned served as Chairman of the Board of the World Forestry Center in the 90’s and continued to provide advice and financial support to the center’s education, tree farms and outreach efforts, culminating in the museum’s extensive renovation in 2005. He will be deeply missed by all here at the World Forestry Center.

Ned Hayes with Chinese fellow Jialu Xie at the Wind River Canopy Crane Research Facility during the 2004 International Educators Institute.

Welcome to Ke, Aline, and Kati

2009-06-09T11:56:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Following the recent arrivals of three new WFI International Fellows to Portland, Oregon, WFI can happily say that for the first time in its history, the Fellowship boasts more women in the program than men. Each woman brings a different background and project, but all are firsts in their own way.

Kati Brueckner is a student at the University of Applied Sciences in Eberswalde, Germany. Her six month research project will examine the adoption and implementation of the Northwest Forest Plan. She is focusing on the contexts and underlying interests of policy and science that influenced the debate around the plan, in order to assess their contributions to the discourse as well as the ecopolitical responses. Kati is our first female German Fellow, and she actually won her sponsorship funding by winning $33,000 Euros in Germany's "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” Now that's a first!

Dr. Ke Dong is a Senior Forest Program Officer at the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) China Liaison Office, based in Beijing. During her 12 month Fellowship, Ke will examine Payment for Ecological Services (PES) as a way to balance development with conservation objectives, and she will conduct a comparative study between China and the US to evaluate increasing international practices in PES. Dr. Ke is our first Fellow from China who comes through an NGO rather than state government, which shows how much the role of NGOs has grown in China in recent years.

Aline Moreira from Brazil is our first American Forest Foundation-sponsored Fellow. She completed her Masters in Sustainable Resource Management in the School of Forest Science and Resource Management at the Technical University in Munich, Germany, and has a background in social work. She will be spending her 12 month Fellowship to update and improve AFF's Project Learning Tree's "Global Connections: Forests of the World" curriculum. This is a guide and activity set for educators to help students gain an increased understanding and appreciation of the world forest environment, with emphasis on the human interaction with, and dependence on, those environments.

A beautiful dinner!

2009-06-09T11:55:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

WFI founder Harry Merlo hosted the Fellows for a lovely outdoor dinner at his home in Portland. Click on Kati and Harry for more photos.

GreenWood Breeds Success in Poplar Plantations

2009-06-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

A worldwide leader in the hybridization of fast-growing, high-yield poplar trees, GreenWood Resources (GWR) develops genetic material and manages plantation resources in strategic regions in the US, Asia, and South America. Fellows visited with GWR’s managers and toured their breeding facilities and hybrid poplar plantations in western Oregon.

Developing high quality poplar genotypes is key to the company’s success. GWR breeds improved parent material and hybrid offspring, and have created over 40,000 varieties of hybrid poplar. Only the best varieties are used for clonal propagation, after field testing for disease resistance, yields, growth form, and other characteristics.

GreenWood Resources manages 2,500 hectares of hybrid poplars in western Oregon near Clatskanie, plus an additional 12,500 acres in eastern Oregon. The west-side poplars are grown on an 8-year rotation for pulp and 12-year rotation for sawlogs. Although the current markets are depressed, harvest was ongoing for shipment of logs by container to Korea. The logs are shipped via the Columbia river, and will be at their final destination in less than two weeks from harvest.

For more photos, click on Shen!

Oregon SAF Annual Meeting

2009-05-25T11:52:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

The Oregon SAF annual meeting including several mill tours in southern Oregon. Click on the photo for more shots of Herbert Lumber, Roseburg Forest Products, and C&D Lumber.

Oregon Department of Forestry Shares Forest Management Vision

2009-05-14T11:53:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

In addition to managing state forest lands, the Oregon Department of Forestry manages fire protection, oversees the Forest Practices Act, and develops forest policy and planning. The agency employs 800 people year round, and during fire season adds another 400 employees. Managers Dave Mormon and Dan Postrel introduced Fellows to the many functions and duties of the state agency, and discussed their experiences working for ODF.

Essentially, as a state agency ODF is governed by the people of Oregon. The Board of Forestry, the governor, advisory groups, and the state’s citizens direct the agency’s function and budget. This was of great interest to the Fellows, particularly those from countries where public land management agencies are organized in a much different fashion.

After visiting with ODF in Salem, Fellows toured the nearby State Capital to learn how state law is made. Many Fellows are unfamiliar with the importance of the fifty different state governments with the United States. Although the US has federal laws, much power and autonomy is given to individual states to make policy on the state level. This is particularly true for forestry policy for private and state lands, which in Oregon make up about 37% of all forestland.

Click on the group for more photos.

Fellows featured in the Asian Reporter

2009-05-07T15:01:00.001-07:00

Xie Calligraphy
Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Thanks to WFI's fabulous intern, Christy Meyer, the WFI program and international fellows have been featured in several local newspapers, including the Oregonian and the Asian Reporter. Check out this article written by Christy on page 10 of the Asian Reporter, published May 5. Click here to view the full paper.

Stimson Lumber Forestland and Mill

2009-04-20T14:39:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Stimson Lumber hosted Fellows at their Forest Grove forestland and mill. Stimson, a privately-held forest products and natural resource company, is based in Portland and has its roots dating back to the 1850s. Fellows visited with managers to learn more about the business of one of the oldest, continuously operating forest products companies in the United States.

Stimson’s Resource Group manages 500,000 acres of company-owned timberland, which are certified through the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. The company primarily sells lumber to Home Depot, a retail outlet catering to the home remodeling and construction industry and “do-it-yourselfers.”

Fellows traveled through the snowy hills with forest managers Scott Gray and Dave Sweeney to visit a harvest site and learn about forest operations. They watched as a local contractor, Cross and Crown, felled trees and loaded them with ease onto log trucks. Fellows were impressed with the 40 to 45 year rotation age and the efficiency of harvesting.

The group followed the logs to the nearby Forest Grove mill, which employs 220 people. Mill manager Bob Banchero walked the group through the manufacturing process, where Fellows watched as logs were converted into dimensional lumber. Waste from the sawmill is then used to create hardboard on site, which has a variety of uses, including home siding. Fellow Shouxin Xie was particularly impressed with the operations and technology used. “This kind of scene is entirely different from China’s factories,” he said. “It’s high level of automation really makes me surprised.”

Fellows in the Oregonian!

2009-04-06T16:03:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Portland residents may have seen the Oregonian newspaper's recent article highlighting the WFI Fellowship program in its Sustainability section's front page. The article was entitled "World Forestry Program Sends a Global Message: Overseas experts come to Oregon to learn the latest about sustainably growing and harvesting forests." Following the WFI Fellows on a field trip excursion to Hopkins Demonstration Forest, Victor Kawanga (Zambia), Milan Mataruga (Bosnia), Roslyn Henricks (Australia), and Shouxin Xie, Min Zhao, and Lanhui Wang (China) were interviewed by about why they came to Oregon and how the will apply their learning at home.

View the article at: http://www.oregonlive.com/environment/index.ssf/2009/03/world_forestry_program_sends_a.html

Brazilian Alumnus Joins WFC Board of Directors

2009-04-06T14:42:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

In 1996, Claudio Ortolan completed a one-year Fellowship at WFI as the Brazilian representative, and WFI is proud to announce his election to the Board of Directors at the World Forestry Center. Claudio joins Jes Munk Hansen as the second WFI alumnus to sit on the board.

“I am very flattered and I hope to be able to collaborate,” says Claudio. “The time I spent in WFI was a continental divide in my career and was a very enjoyable time in my personal life too.”

“I see room for experience exchange between the North and South. In the South you have the intensively managed plantation forestry; everyone gets amazed seeing mature forest for harvest only 7 years old,” he explains. “The North is still the source of capital. And WFI has proved to be the meeting point of choice for the forest investment community.”

“The northern hemisphere companies also have the experience of dealing with environmental concerns. The environmental pressure may have changed sides. Forest companies are well positioned to supply sustainable and carbon neutral products and clean energy, and at the same time protect water and wildlife. WFI has been conveying this message for a long time.”

Australian Phil Lacy Moves to PF Olsen

2009-04-06T14:41:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Phil Lacy (Australia 2004) recently began working for PF Olsen Australia after many years at Forests New South Wales. PF Olsen is based in New Zealand, and they manage native and plantation forests for investors. They recently expanded their operations into Australia, and Phil will be working out of Emerald Beach, New South Wales. Phil can be reached at phil.lacy@pfolsen.com. Phil is also nearing completing of his Ph.D. in Forestry, focusing on prescribed fire in eucalyptus plantations.

Phil’s wife Janice is working as a physical education teacher at a local high school. Daughter Skye is now in 4th grade, and daughter Tiana is in 1st grade. They family spends time at their nearby tree farm growing eucalypts, and they recently bought a portable sawmill and tractor to begin milling their own wood. The first batch of lumber will be put to good use creating a deck for their home, which is a few short blocks from the beach.

Trappist Abbey Manages for Stewardship and Livelihoods

2009-03-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

For the past fifty years, Our Lady of Guadalupe Trappist Abbey has managed 900 acres in the Willamette Valley, a short 30 miles from Portland. The religious community of 29 monks operate several cottage industries, and “express religion through work.” In addition to forestry, their businesses provide income for the community, and include a bookbindery, bakery, and wine warehouse.

The Abbey forest is an important element of the monastic community. The mixed conifer and oak stands provide a spiritual setting and a sense of retreat from the outside world.

With the help of a private forest manager, Scott Ferguson of Trout Mountain Forestry, the monks manage for long term productivity. Their forest is certified through the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Although operating costs are higher for FSC managed forests, the management philosophy fits well with the monks’ ownership goals, and certified logs ensure market access and last year saw a 20% market premium.

The Abbey forest gave Fellows an experience with private landowners, and a sense of the diverse objectives that they manage for. Private forestland owners are difficult to classify, as they are ten million in the US and their importance to land stewardship can not be underestimated.

February 2009 WFI Update Now Available

2009-02-04T17:06:00.000-08:00

The newest WFI Update can now be downloaded from: http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/WFIupdate2.09.pdf

In this issue, find articles on:
*Welcome to New Fellows from China and Australia
*Congratulations to new Board of Directors member, Danish alumnus Jes Munk Hansen
*Holiday snow hits Portland
*Recent field tours to Weyerhaeuser Aurora Nursery and Tillamook Forest Center
*Alumni updates

Thanks,
Angie, Program Manager

Danish Alumnus Joins WFC Board of Directors

2009-02-04T16:55:00.001-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

When Jes Munk Hansen joined WFI as the Danish Fellow in 1994, he hardly imagined that one day he would sit on the organization’s Board of Directors. Jes became the first alumnus to be voted in as a board member, and he is eager to contribute. "As a former Fellow I know the value of having senior executives on the Board who can guide the center and open doors for the activities and the interns at WFI," he says.

Jes has come a long way in the past fifteen years since he researched shipping projects and pricing for special forest products at WFI. He completed his Masters in forestry at the University of Copenhagen, as well as an MBA from London Business School. In 2000 he joined Grundfos Group, a company which develops, sells and produces pumps. Although Grundfos is not in the forest industry, his business and management training plus forestry’s long term perspective prepared him well. "I am looking forward to reconnecting with my background in forestry,” says Jes, “an industry which will always be close to my heart."

"I am very exited to rejoin WFC. The World Forest Institute was fundamental in getting my personal career started - now I want to contribute to further develop this great institution."

WFI Welcomes New Fellows from China and Australia

2009-02-04T16:38:00.000-08:00

Two new Fellows recently joined WFI: in December, WFI welcomed Dr. Shouxin Xie, from Beijing, China, and in February, Ms. Roslyn Henricks from Mount Gambier, Australia.

Dr. Xie works for the Department of Forest Resources Management in the State Forestry Administration. His primary responsibilities are inventories and layouts of forest resources and supervising and management of forest harvest and resources utilization.

Shouxin will spend six months at WFI, researching the establishment and implementation of sustainable forest management policies in the US, especially in the Pacific Northwest. He hopes his research results will help improve the administration of China’s forest resource laws, particularly the establishment of sustainable harvest levels.

Roslyn Henricks joins WFI as the twelth fellow sponsored by The Gottstein Trust, Forest and Wood Products Australia, and the Harry Merlo Foundation. During her one year Fellowship, Roslyn’s research will investigate the relationship between the visual impacts of plantation forestry, social acceptability, plantation resource expansion, and landscape planning.

“Forest aesthetic value is strongly correlated with acceptance of forest management by a visually stimulated society,” Roslyn says, “and understanding how aesthetic value can be managed is critical if a forest industry is to be sustainable in a region or community.” Roslyn will compare plantation regions across Australia and the US, and hopes to recommend practical applications for improving aesthetic values and community support of plantations. Roslyn is well prepared for such a project, and has a combined degree in Forestry and Visual Arts at the Australian National University in Canberra, which included a 12 month international exchange at Oregon State University.

Weyerhaeuser Aurora Nursery Amazes Fellows with Production

2009-02-01T16:57:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

In well organized, machine-like precision, 160 contractors rapidly processed newly lifted seedlings for shipping at Weyerhaeuser’s Aurora Forest Nursery. With only 11 permanent staff members, and a large crew of seasonal labor, the nursery produces 28 million seedlings for reforestation and Christmas tree stock.

About half of the seedlings are used on Weyerhaeuser’s lands and the rest are available to the public, in quantities of one to one million. Many are grown under contract, with provided seed, or using Weyerhaeuser’s improved seed. Thirty-five different species are grown on the 190 acre site, which was one of Oregon’s original homesteads in the 1850s.

Generally, lifting seedlings begins in December, but with Oregon’s unusually cold winter, nursery activities were delayed six weeks. Manager Mark Triebwasser was confident that all orders would be filled, although it means long hours and few days off for staff. The intense schedule doesn’t deter Mark from enjoying his job: he has worked for Weyerhaeuser nearly thirty years and was still smiling as he explained the production process to Fellows.

Strategic Planning and Interpretation Explored at Tillamook Forest

2009-01-15T16:51:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows visited with managers at the Tillamook Forest Center, a forest-based learning center and outdoor classroom facility in the heart of Oregon’s coast range. The center showcases the story of the Tillamook burn, a series of wildfires that occurred in the 1930s and 1940s. The burn was followed by Oregon’s first large reforestation effort.

Of particular interest to Fellows was the planning process, which took over ten years, and the education objectives of the center. Interpretive themes were developed in the planning process, and are carried out throughout the exhibits, trails, and education programs.

“The Tillamook Forest Center tied in very well with my Fellowship aims,” said Victor Kawanga, “as it is a special place to develop a deeper connection to Oregon’s forests and has free programs for schools and community groups.” Victor will take planning and education lessons back to Zambia, where he is involved in planning similar projects.

Click on the group for more photos.

An extra ordinary experience

2009-01-12T07:59:00.000-08:00

By Victor Kawanga

Just as I find it difficult to tell the difference between the donkey and a mule, the seasonal distinction between my arrival in September (before winter) and actual winter season told me little difference. It was cold any way. So what kind of weather variation would characterize winter was a big question and I laid in wait.

And so when the actual cold spell finally stumped its authority, even the pessimist had reason to follow instructions from the weatherman or woman. You see, I do not know about the way weather men and women are perceived in the United States, but in Zambia, people have a tendency to brush aside the calculated predictions. The winter storm was not only fascinating, but also luring. The best tool for learn is “venture out” and so I did. I found myself staring at a giant and illuminated tree in down town Portland. It is not the silhouette of lights it casts down that moved me, but the thought of finding out whether it was made from plastic. This interest came from no other than a five to six year child standing next to my right hand. Mum, is this plastic? Was the child’s innocent inquiry. “I do not think so, or may be”; came the answer from the parent. The answer was more confusing to the child, I later on thought. Children need direct answers just as adults do.

I was later to learn that the Christmas tree at Pioneer Square is not an assemblage of plastics. It is natural, thanks to a donation from Stimson Lumber Company. This 75 Foot Douglas Fir was grown on sustainable forests in Gaston, Oregon. And it presence there was not a hurriedly thought of issue. While we were busy attending to other chores that shape our lives, Portland City Fathers were for six months researching for which tree would be perfect to grace “Portland’s living room”.

This is the answer I would have given that exploratory mind of a child and not a mixed grill of may be it is plastic, may be not. If I had met this intelligent child the following morning, I surely would have offered to provide an accurate answer.

The tree is reportedly evergreen and eco-friendly too! I read, in one Magazine, that Globe lighting will illuminate the tree with more than 15, 000 energy efficient bulbs assuring that the square uses 91% less energy. In agreement with PDX magazine, it translates into a first truly green tree ever.

December Snow Turns WFC into Winter Wonderland

2009-01-04T16:41:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

December, usually a flurry of holiday activity and travel, slowed Portland to a crawl when the area received its largest snowstorm in forty years. Most Fellows remember Portland winters as long, gray days filled with mild weather and rain, but 2008 will be remembered as the year that buses did not run, skiers took over the streets, and stores ran low on groceries.

Fellows from cold climates were surprised at Portland’s inability to deal with the two feet of snow and ice that fell throughout two weeks in December. “Traffic was in chaos, a lot of cars were off the road, and the buses didn't go,” said Milan Mataruga, whose apartment sat at the top of a steep hill, where the city closed the street for a week. “I can’t believe that nobody can go to their jobs, groceries, hospitals or similar. I was in the apartment, and spent that time usefully, reading a book about breeding Douglas-fir.”

Other Fellows were ecstatic at the opportunity to play outside. "I have never experienced such heavy snow before, unbelievable!” exclaimed Min Zhao, who is from warm Shanghai. “The landscape around my living place was very beautiful, especially when the snow surrounded all of the conifers.” When WFC was forced to close, Min was the only one who made it in, hiking from her nearby house, and stopping to sled and play along the way. Min also led the other Fellows on a two-hour walking and busing trek to Director Sara Wu’s house for Christmas dinner.

After what seemed like a very long wait, temperatures rose and Portland returned to its usual rain, melting all signs of the ice and snow that slowed the city. This holiday season will certainly be remembered by Fellows as a special one, filled with memories of snowmen and a white Christmas.

Join us! Educator Sought for World Forest Institute Fellowship

2008-12-11T17:03:00.001-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

The American Forest Foundation (AFF) and the World Forestry Center have worked together for many years to develop activities for educators with an environmental focus. Most recently, Project Learning Tree, an AFF program, and WFC joined forces to creat Global Connections: Forests of the World, a guide and activity set for educators to help students gain an increased understanding and appreciation of world forest environments, with an emphasis on human dependence on forests. The activities provide students opportunities to apply scientific processes and higher order thinking skills while investigating world forestry issues and conducting service learning action projects.

In an exciting collaboration, AFF will fund a WFI Fellow to continue researching and supplementing the curriculum. This special Fellowship is open to applicants with education experience and some background in natural resources. Strong communication skills, including excellent English, and computer skills are also required. The closing date is February 15, 2009, and the Fellow will begin at WFI in May, 2009.

Download more information here: http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/opportunity.pdf.

Nursery Tours

2008-12-11T16:59:00.001-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Milan Maturuga arrived at WFI with the goal of experiencing as many nursery related projects as possible. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, he teaches students how to grow and plant seedlings, and hopes to write a new textbook for his students. The last war in Bosnia had a major impact on forests in the country, including destroying seed orchards and nursery equipment. Now there is a great need for restoring degraded forestland, but quality seedlings are needed first.

Milan has visited several nurseries so far, see some of his photos here:
Nursery Technology Cooperative annual meeting (IFA Toleda, Webster, and IFA Nisqually)
J. Frank Schmidt & Son

Fellows Travel to Nevada for SAF Annual Convention

2008-11-15T16:42:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Wild horses, cowboys, and yes, forestry, called Fellows to Reno, Nevada, for the 2008 Society of American Foresters annual meeting. The gathering, whose theme was “Forestry in a Climate of Change” provided diverse offerings that appealed to all Fellows, whose projects vary widely. “I was happy to have been able to join eminent forest practitioners and enthusiasts,” said Victor Kawanga. “Each provided valuable lessons on aspects of fire ecology, silviculture, and economics in forest restoration projects.”

Climate change, carbon trading, and biofuels headlined the conference, which was attended by over 1600 foresters. The current economic downturn was also a big topic, as US wood production is down nearly 35% from three years ago. The conference opened the day after election day, and there was much speculation about changes in energy and forest policy that will come with a new administration.

Driving 1200 miles obviously necessitated a few stops, and gave Fellows an impressive view of forest types crossing over the Cascade mountains. In Klamath Falls, Fellows visited with managers at Collins Products and toured their particleboard plant. Ponderosa pine shavings are obtained locally, and they are used to manufacture an FSC-certified product.

Crater Lake was a “must see” attraction on the return, but heavy snowfall left Fellows to appreciate the park’s forests, as the lake was nowhere to be seen. Everyone returned safe and sound with a greater appreciation for the diversity of forestry work in the US, as well as with a sense of comraderie after finding that foresters share similar values, no matter where they are from.

For more photos:
Convention
On the road
Crater Lake
Collins Products

All things salmon

2008-11-01T16:46:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows learned about fish management at Bonneville Hatchery, where workers extracted eggs for fall spawning. After watching artificial spawning, the group headed for a hike in Eagle Creek to see the real deal. Click on the group for more photos.

Doggie Palooza

2008-10-20T17:27:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows helped out at this unique event at the WFC museum. All things dog-centered were available to the public, to encourage folks to visit the exhibit "Wolf to Woof." Click on this cute pup to see more photos from the event.

October 2008 WFI Update Now Available

2008-10-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

The newest WFI Update can now be downloaded from: http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/WFIupdate10.08.pdf

In this issue, find articles on:
*"Who Will Own the Forest? 4"
*Welcome to New Fellows from Bosnia and Herzegovina, China, and Zambia
*WFI presents in Australia at VicForests Symposium
*Recent field tours
*Alumni updates

Thanks,
Angie, Program Manager

Welcome new Fellows!

2008-10-09T16:42:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fall brought three new Fellows to WFI from a diverse group of countries, two of which are new to the Fellowship Program. WFI is pleased to introduce Lanhui Wang from Beijing, China, Dr. Milan Mataruga from Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Victor Kawanga from Lusaka, Zambia.

Ms. Lanhui Wang is a faculty member in the Department of Statistics, School of Economics and Management, at Beijing Forestry University, where she lectures on statistics and econometrics, forecasting, and decision making in economics. Her research projects have included evaluations for China’s Grain for Green Project, socio-economic investigations of Giant Panda habitat in Shaanxi province, and management plans for natural reserves in China.

During her six-month Fellowship Lanhui will conduct research on forecasting for timber consumption and wood products trade in China. “I hope I can widen my vision through discussion with other colleagues,” says Lanhui. “I also hope to know what foreigners are concerned about regarding China and China’s forest products market.” She is sponsored by the Harry Merlo Foundation and the China Scholarship Council.

Milan Mataruga is a Professor in the Faculty of Forestry, University of Banja Luka in the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina. He teaches courses on forest seeds, seedling production, and establishing new forests and plantations. His previous research centered around seedling production, including work on seed orchards, physiological and genetic seed research, drought resistant seedlings, and reforestation. His Fellowship is sponsored by the Harry Merlo Foundation and several Bosnian groups, including the Ministry Department of Science and Technology, the Ministry Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, Šume Republike Srpske, and Tamaris.

During Milan’s one year Fellowship he will gain insight into the Pacific Northwest's scientific knowledge and practical experiences in genetic resources, forest seeds, nurseries and afforestation. “My research and new knowledge gained during my stay in WFI will be implemented in a new textbook for students at Faculty of Forestry in Banja Luka,” says Milan.

Victor Kawanga is the National Coordinator for the Commonwealth Forestry Association’s Zambian Branch. His work includes research, management, education, extension, and planning. Much of his time is spent negotiating between forestry, agriculture and rural development groups.

Victor will conduct an assessment of how policy influences forest distribution, conservation, preservation, utilization and management during his six-month Fellowship. “I hope to learn lessons from the different players in forestry such as the government, private sector, the public, associations and non state actors, especially how they interact and how resulting mismatches, trade offs, and synergies are developed to benefit the well being of forests and those who depend on them,” he says. “From this prognosis, I see a lot of interactions with the above mentioned players to benefit my stay. I believe this will enhance my work, career goals and the country, Zambia, at large.” Victor is sponsored by the Harry Merlo Foundation and several US friends, including J.J. Martin, a Washington resident whom he met while in forestry school in Cyprus, and Jason Cooper, a local teacher.

Angie visits Oz

2008-09-19T16:43:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

In September, WFI Program Manager Angie DiSalvo was invited to speak in Melbourne, Australia at a conference on workforce training needs, organized by Nathan Trushell of VicForests. Nathan recently completed a six-month Fellowship this winter. Angie’s presentation to Australia’s forestry sector—entitled “Embracing Change: Preparing for the Future of Forestry”—highlighted the trends impacting forestry and how this affects the skills needed in today’s generation of forestry professionals.

The too-short trip was a great opportunity to meet with WFI’s Australian network, including Forest and Wood Products Australia, which co-sponsors Fellows with the Gottstein Trust, new board member Vince Erasmus of ITC, WFI alumnus Blair Freeman, and International Educators alumnus Kathy Overton. Angie had only one weekend to be a tourist, and the Trushell family were wonderful hosts and took her on a variety of adventures including visits to the Twelve Apostles, Mornington Peninsula, Lochard Gorge and the Otway Fly, a canopy walk. For more photos, click on Angie and Nathan.

Sell Out Crowd at Forestland Investment Forum

2008-09-15T09:37:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute
For more photos click on the picture

Despite a slowing global economy and increasing competition from other venues hosting timberland investment conferences, WFI’s fourth “Who Will Own the Forest?” summit was better funded, better attended and more profitable than any other. It attracted an unprecedented number of sponsors and attendees. Sponsorships were up 50% from 2007, and registrations were up 25%. “Who Will Own the Forest” has become the largest single fundraising event at WFC.

Registrations for our conference on forestland investing had to be closed three weeks early due to the unexpected popularity of the event. The event was capped at 350 registrants (a new capacity-high for Miller Hall), which included 19 WFC directors. 28 speakers from various countries presented, including WFC directors Dennis Neilson, Bill Bradley, Vince Erasmus and Rick Smith. One WFI alumnus, Claudio Ortolan, of Klabin, also spoke. The event also received continuing education credit from the Oregon State Bar, Certified Public Accountants, and the Society of Forestry.

Sponsorship for the event was at an all-time high of 30 corporations and associations, illustrating the diverse industry support that is critical to puting on a high-class educational program that emphasized content and networking instead of sales pitches. That distinction seems to be well appreciated by attendees, who overwhelmingly rated our event as being better than competing forestland investment forums. We thank our sponsors for their generosity: American AgCredit, Banc of America Securities, The Campbell Group, Forest Capital Partners, Forest Investment Associates, Forestweb, The Forestland Group, Global Forest Partners, GMO Renewable Resources, Green Diamond Resource Company, GreenWood Resources, Hancock Timber Resource Group, Harry A. Merlo Foundation, Jeffrey M. Siegrist & Company, John Hancock Bond and Corporate Finance Group, MetLife Timberland Finance Group, Molpus Woodlands Group, Northwest Farm Credit Services, Olympic Resource Management, Port Blakely Tree Farms, Realty Marketing/Northwest, Resource Management Service, Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt, Starker Forests, Stimson Lumber, Stoel Rives, Sutherland, Timberland Investment Resources, US Bank, and Verrill Dana.

Proceedings are available for order from: http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/wwotf4/.
For more photos click on the conference pictures.

Forestry Sites with an Educator’s Perspective

2008-09-09T16:24:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

In August, Fellows spent three days visiting environmental education and forestry sites with Educator Director Rick Zenn and Education Forester Rob Pierce. The group tours also included US, Brazilian, and German interns and Mount Hood Community College volunteers from Haiti.

On the Oregon coast near Tillamook, the group visited Cape Meares State Park where they visited a historic lighthouse and learned the park’s natural history, which includes bird habitat and old growth forest. Discussion about managing state parks found many different opinions. “It was very interesting to see how many different ideas the group brought to the discussion about forest management,” said Carolina Cavedon, an intern from Brazil. “Some fellows want to keep the forest in the way it was. Others suggested to plant new seedlings. And a few opted for cutting trees to generate money with the wood.”

The group also visited Hyla Woods, an FSC certified tree farm owned by the Hayes family. Peter Hayes, who sits on the Oregon Board of Forestry, toured Fellows around his managed forest and solar kiln, discussing a variety of topics from small woodland owners to markets for niche products.

Other stops included the Tillamook Forest Center, Port Blakely Tree Farms, and Jackson Bottom Wetlands.

August 2008 WFI Update Now Available

2008-08-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

The newest WFI Update can now be downloaded from: http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/WFIupdate8.08.pdf

In this issue, find articles on:
*Annual visit to MC Ranch
*2008 International Educators Institute
*Dr. Min Zhao visit with University of Florida
*"Who Will Own the Forest? 4"
*Alumni updates from Sandra Silva Perez, Mariane Bueno de Camargo, Roger Naylor, Mikkel Nielsen, Jes Munk Hansen, and Tony Scherl

Thanks,
Angie, Program Manager

Researchers and Teachers Come Together for 2008 IEI

2008-07-31T09:24:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

In July the World Forestry Center hosted the 12th annual International Educators Institute. This weeklong study tour is set against the dramatic Pacific Northwest landscape and uses local examples to explore sustainable forestry issues. The tour is conducted by the Education Department and the World Forest Institute.

A diverse group of twenty participants came together from around the world, including award winning environmental educators and natural resource professionals. Each day a different theme led participants to examine social, economic, and environmental issues, including themes of forest research, protection, communities, disturbance, and management. Participants also exchanged best practices in forestry education and provided their own unique perspectives on global issues.

The group stayed overnight in the Columbia River Gorge at Menucha retreat center. Long travel days were spent visiting with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Weyerhaeuser Learning Center, the Portland urban forest, and US Forest Service lands. For many participants, this was their first experience in the Pacific Northwest.

Living and traveling together with people from around the world lends itself to a deep level of cultural exchange. Participants gain new respect for different cultures and ways of life. “I came back with a sense that I need to do more, help others and be prepared. The role of educators and care givers of our planet can only be accomplished if we set aside differences and start learning from others,” said Carlos Yruretagoyena, an environmental manager at a paper mill in Mexico. “Tolerance, patience and care should be the main ingredients.” More photos and information can be found at http://internationaleducatorsinstitute.blogspot.com.

June WFI Update available for download

2008-06-16T15:18:00.000-07:00

The newest WFI Update can now be downloaded from: http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/WFIupdate6.08.pdf

In this issue, find articles on:
*Oregon Small Woodlands Association Annual Meeting
*Farewell to Mariane Camargo, Namgon Kwag, and Linsen Zhao
*Deepak Tamang presents on east and west coast
*Alumni Dinner in China
*Field tours to Hancock, GreenWood Resources, and more

Thanks,

Angie, Program Manager

Fellows Visit East Side Forests at MC Ranch

2008-06-10T09:22:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

In early June, WFI Fellows and staff made an annual visit to Chairman Harry Merlo’s eastern Oregon property in La Grande. This year’s tour included a visit to a bioenergy pilot project supplied with wood residue from MC Ranch.

Deepak Tamang (Nepal), Min Zhao (China), and Namgon Kwag (Korea), joined staff Angie DiSalvo and Sara Wu for a week in La Grande. Every visit brings new surprises. First, it became apparent enroute to La Grande that the unusually wet winter and prolonged rains had left the landscape much more green and lush than in past years. Rex Christenson, MC Ranch manager, commented that it was perhaps the wettest year he’d seen since he was a child. The second surprise came on the second morning, when we awoke to white powder covering the ground. It was snowing in June! One would think that the cool temperatures and moisture would help to reduce the threat of wildfire, but it could also encourage the growth of dense underbrush, which later becomes dry fuel in the summer. For more photos click on Rex.

Min head to Florida to learn UFORE model

2008-06-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

In June Chinese Fellow Dr. Min Zhao visited the University of Florida in Gainesville to expand upon her research in urban forestry. Her project revolves around quantifying the benefits of urban forests, and better understanding the urban forest carbon cycle. Urban forests are thought to perform many important ecological functions, but there are few methods to quantify the value of these functions.

The US Forest Service developed one model, the Urban Forest Effects (UFORE), to quantify forest structure, function, and value. To better learn how to use this complicated method, Min paired up with Dr. Francisco Escobedo, an expert who has used the model in multiple cities in the US and abroad. He graciously hosted Min at the University of Florida’s School of Forest Resources and Conservation for several weeks while she learned the ins and outs of the model.

Chinese Alumni Reunion!

2008-05-27T12:03:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Director Sara Wu and President Gary Hartshorn visited China and met with WFI alums. click on the group for more photos.

News from PDX: Sturgeon Party!

2008-05-16T09:39:00.000-07:00

Big Ball of Columbia River sturgeon baffles experts

Tens of thousands of sturgeon are found bunched up below Bonneville Dam

Friday, May 16, 2008

MICHAEL MILSTEIN

The Oregonian Staff

When sonar surveys spotted a vast pile of rubble in the Columbia River below Bonneville Dam late last winter, officials suddenly worried that part of the dam structure was eroding into the river.

"Everybody said, 'Oh my gosh, we need to get divers out there right away,' " recalled Dennis Schwartz, a fisheries biologist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which oversees the dam.

What they found below the spillways in February was not a giant pile of rock at all, but a humongous pile of thousands upon thousands of sturgeon -- some of them 14 feet long or longer -- lounging together in frigid water at the bottom of the river.

"We call it the big sturgeon ball," Schwartz said.

The mountain of white sturgeon contained around 60,000 fish, according to a rough estimate by Michael Parsley, a research fisheries biologist with the U.S. Geological Survey's Columbia River Research Laboratory in Cook, Wash. He described that estimate as "probably conservative."

It was an aquatic phenomenon nobody had ever seen at such a monstrous scale, offering a startling glimpse into the life of the Columbia's largest and most ancient fish.

If the estimates are anywhere near correct, the congregation of sturgeon may represent 5 percent to 10 percent of all the white sturgeon in the lower Columbia River, Parsley said. The conclave apparently broke up in March as the corps increased water releases through the dam to help salmon, Schwartz said.

An Army dive team, called out to inspect the dam, discovered the sturgeon when it sent down a remotely operated submersible to take a look at what everyone thought was debris.

The lingering question is: What were all the fish doing there?

"Normally they're pretty spread out," Schwartz said. "You don't see this balling behavior."

In videos recorded by the underwater camera, the fish appear to be lounging, many on top of one another, some even upside down, at depths of 40 to 50 feet. Biologists considered whether the fish may be putting up an organized defense against sea lions showing up increased numbers to gobble salmon and sturgeon below the dam.

They discovered the sturgeon ball just as sea lions started to show up, but they also point out that sturgeon have been known to gather -- though in lower numbers -- in other places where there are no sea lions.

"The correlation (with sea lions) would probably be pretty weak," Schwartz said. "They all seemed to be just hanging out together."

Many unknowns

Similar winter gatherings of sturgeon have been documented far up the Columbia in Canada, but not at the tremendous numbers seen below Bonneville, Parsley said. Biologists are not sure why the fish collect that way.

"We don't know whether that one aggregation is in response to sea lions being there, or if they do this every year," he said.

He said the fish may bunch up for safety as they conserve energy during the cool months of winter. The water was about 34 to 35 degrees.

"They were just lollygagging -- definitely not expending energy," he said. "There must be some social or survival advantage to it, but I'm not sure what it is."

Sturgeon are ancient survivors that have changed little since the time of the dinosaurs. They can weigh more than 1,500 pounds and live well over 100 years.

Biologists have heard reports of congregations of sturgeon at the surface of reservoirs and rivers, including shallow parts of the Columbia. But there aren't very good estimates on how many sturgeon may be involved in those gatherings, Parsley said.

"Sturgeon in general seem to be relatively social," he said.

He said he heard an account from one woman who said the river came alive with fish, and said she couldn't help but think of sharks when she saw the giant fish slice across the water surface.

Teams working at the dam have reported some unusual sturgeon activity since sea lions began appearing in larger numbers at the dam each spring in recent years, eating both salmon and sturgeon. Last year, for instance, crews saw large numbers of sturgeon along the bank of Cascades Island, one of the islands just below the dam.

Biologists speculated the fish may have been trying to avoid sea lions, said Robert Stansell, a Corps of Engineers biologist at the dam.

Sea lions -- mainly protected Steller sea lions -- were spotted gobbling more than 600 sturgeon this year, although the number dropped off later in the spring, he said.

Hundreds of sturgeon were also found in the dam's fish ladder last winter, which was unusual, he said.

Poorly studied fish

Parsley said sturgeon are so poorly studied that biologists don't know much about their behavior. Big gatherings of the fish in the depths of the river may be more common than anyone realizes.

"I firmly believe they do this elsewhere in the river," he said.

Though salmon are well known, biologists have spent far less time mapping the populations and habits of sturgeon. But the fish are by far the largest and longest lived fish in the river system -- and one of the most mysterious.

"They're the wooly mammoth, the saber-tooth tiger or the lion of the Columbia River," Parsley said. "There's just still a lot to be learned about them."

Oregon Small Woodlands Association Annual Meeting

2008-04-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows traveled to Florence, Oregon, for the OSWA annual meeting and tree school. What a trip! Local woodlands owners were kind enough to help us learn to dig for clams and cook up chowder and fritters, and also toured us around their woodlands. Click on Linsen and Mari for more photos.

Silver Falls State Park

2008-04-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows visited with managers at Silver Falls State Park, an Oregon State Park. Park staff discussed visitor management and long term plans for accomodating growth in visits. Click on Min for more photos.

Arbor Day at Hoyt Arboretum

2008-04-07T11:59:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows participated in the 2008 Arbor Day Celebration hosted by Parks and Recreation at Hoyt Arboretum. Click on the Min, Mari, and Namgon for more photos.

April 2008 WFI Update Now Available

2008-04-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

The newest WFI Update can now be downloaded from: http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/WFIupdate4.08.pdf

In this issue, find articles on:
*Brazilian Fellow Mariane Bueno de Camargo visits Georgia
*Welcome to Min Zhao from China and Farewell to Matt Pope from Australia
*International Builders Conference in Orlando with Korean Namgon Kwag
*Updates from our Alumni

Thanks,

Angie, Program Manager

WFI Welcomes Min Zhao

2008-04-03T09:15:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

In February WFI welcomed Dr. Min Zhao from China for a twelve month Fellowship. Min is sponsored by her employer, Shanghai Normal University, where she teaches and researches.

During her Fellowship Min will be exploring how to evaluate urban forest functions. “Urban forests play an important role in building a beautiful environment for people, and urban trees contribute significantly to environmental quality and human health,” says Min. “Unfortunately, little is known about the urban forest resource and what it contributes to the local and regional society and economy, especially in Chinese cities.” Min will spend her Fellowship examining the feasibility of using US-developed models to quantify urban forest effects. She hopes that these models will allow her to estimate urban forest carbon sequestration and impacts on air quality.

Besides learning to run the available models, Min will broaden her knowledge about US urban forest management during her Fellowship. She will spend time interviewing professional urban foresters, visiting urban forests and research sites, and attending conferences.

This is Min’s first time outside of China, and she is excitedly experiencing all that Oregon has to offer. “Oregon is a good place, with many green trees and many natural forests,” says Min. “I especially like that American people are very nice and they like to communicate with me.”

Columbia Gorge in the Spring

2008-03-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows visited the Columbia River Gorge to discuss the significance of National Scenic Areas. Click on the waterfall to view the photos of Latourelle Falls, Bridal Veil, and Multnomah Falls.

Linsen and Min visit Dr. Kathy Wolf at University of Seattle

2008-03-22T09:07:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows Linzen Zhao and Min Zhao, both urban forestry professionals from China, visited with Dr. Kathy Wolf at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Wolf is known for her social science research on the human dimensions of urban forestry and urban greening.

Dr. Wolf graciously hosted the Fellows for three days, during which they discussed research, teaching, and projects. They met with graduate students and professors, as well as community members involved in urban planning. One of the most interesting events was meeting with landscape architects working on centennial planning for Seattle’s green spaces.

“Seattle is a very beautiful city with well designed and tended urban forest,” says Linsen. Heartfelt thanks go to Dr. Wolf for her collaboration. Click on Linsen and Kathy for more photos.

Mari visit Georgia

2008-03-03T09:12:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Mariane Bueno de Camargo (Brazil) traveled to Georgia for 12 days of conference and forestry meetings. She started her trip down south in Atlanta, where she participated in the Panel and Engineered Lumber International Conference. Hot topics included green building, California’s new emission regulations, and impacts of changing forest ownership.

Mari then traveled to coastal Savannah to meet Gail Lutowski, whom she met at the 2007 International Educators Institute. Gail arranged several forest field tours and visits with manufacturers, including Claude Lumber and Weyerhaeuser. “It was wonderful to see companies working with native species and all the associated wildlife such as woodpeckers, salamanders, and snakes,” said Mari.

Gail also arranged for Mari to speak to the Society of American Foresters and a group of young women interested in science professions. Mari sends her appreciation to Gail for the warm welcome into southern hospitality. “I enjoyed everything...the different style of people, and food, especially barbecue and grits for breakfast,” she said.

The trip ended in Athens, home of the University of Georgia. Professor Bob Izlar hosted Mari in his home, and meetings with faculty led to discussions on biofuels technologies and business operations. Also in Athens, Drew Marczak of Plum Creek Timber toured Mari around Loblolly and Slash pine plantations, the native Georgian species that are the primary plantation species where Mari works in southern Brazil. “We have more favorable conditions for growing these species, with much higher growth rates,” explained Mari. “But we have many of the same forest health concerns.”

Mari was amazed at the similar issues in the two countries. “From legislation concerns to forest health issues, our two countries face the same problems,” she said. “My experience in the Pacific Northwest and the South was so different but so important for understanding the US. Comparing these with Brazil, I found that in all places we have problems and successes —we just speak differently!” Click on Gail and Mari for more photos.

Namgon Attends International Builders Show in Orlando

2008-03-01T09:15:00.000-08:00

Korean Fellow Namgon Kwag traveled to Orlando, Florida, to attend the International Builders show along with 92,000 other industry professionals and colleagues from Eagon’s Seattle office. The show is so large that it took three days to see, even though this year’s show was smaller due to the slow housing market.

Exhibitors represented all sectors of the building industry, from lumber to appliances to tools. Textiles such as carpet and rugs were the largest exhibitors. Namgon was searching for new products to introduce to the Korean market, and found several items with potential. He was impressed by spray foam insulation, radiant heating systems using electric wires, and outdoor composite decking. He noticed that the trend this year is for all products to be marketed as “green,” and the show even designated one day “green day.”

Taking advantage of Orlando’s location, Namgon’s wife and two children joined him after the event for a quick vacation to Seaworld, Disney World, Miami Beach, and Key West. The kids loved Snow White and Cinderella, while Namgon and Eunkyoung were enchanted with the beautiful ocean drive to Key West.

Chinese Alumnus Fanglin Tan on OPB!

2008-02-29T11:10:00.000-08:00

OSU Researcher Sam Chan and WFI alumnus Fanglin Tan cooperated to bring OSU scientists to China to discuss invasive species issues. Oregon Public Broadcasting created a ten minute video of the trip, watch it here: http://www.opb.org/programs/ofg/videos/view/72-China

The Corvallis Gazette Times featured the trip in an article:
http://www.gazettetimes.com/articles/2007/06/07/news/community/4aaa02_china.txt

And from OSU: http://oregonstate.edu/dept/ncs/newsarch/2007/May07/chan.html

OSU Extension Specialist to Lead China Trip

CORVALLIS, Ore. - Sam Chan, an Oregon State University Extension invasive species expert, will lead a three-state delegation of invasive species, restoration, and science education and communications experts on an 11-day trip to China this month.

Its aim is to help the Chinese begin to assess the extent of a non-native marine grass invasion that threatens mangrove-dominated coastal forests in that country's Fujian province.

The long-term goal is to forge a relationship between invasive species experts in the United States and China that could help both countries better deal with the threats non-native plants and animals pose to local species and ecosystems – and perhaps to reduce the transport of such organisms via trans-Pacific commerce.

Chan, who works with the OSU-based Oregon Sea Grant program, is an aquatic invasive species expert, watershed education team leader and an assistant professor in watershed health at OSU. He also chairs the education and outreach team of the Oregon Invasive Species Council.

The China venture came about as a result of Chan’s earlier work with Fanglin Tan, a faculty member with the Fujian Academy of Science, the academic science arm of the provincial government's forest service. The two men met in 2001 when Tan was a fellow at the World Forestry Center and Chan – then a research scientist with the U.S. Forest Service – held a workshop about invasive species and restoration in riparian areas on the Pacific Northwest coast.

High on their list of mutual concerns were species of spartina, commonly known as cordgrass. Spartina plays an important ecological role in its native habitats, including the east coast of the U.S., but can be highly invasive and damaging to ecosystems outside its native range.

Sometimes planted for erosion control and salt marsh reclamation, or used as animal feed and packing material for oysters, spartina can be a vigorous invader, quickly colonizing estuaries, driving out native plants, and eventually creating islands that block the natural flow of water. Ecologically destructive spartina invasions have occurred on both the west coast of the U.S. and the south coast of China.

The threatened mangroves are salt water-tolerant trees that are the center of complex ecosystems (known as mangrove swamps or forests) along coastal estuaries in much of the world, including the seacoast of China's Fujian province. Adapted to survive in both salt and fresh water, the trees and the systems around them can serve as important buffers to coastal storms and flooding, as well as providing habitat for shellfish and other commercially important species.

Since the Indonesian tsunami of 2004, China has turned its attention to the importance of the Fujian mangrove forests, along with off-shore coral reefs, in protecting its densely populated coastline from similar disasters caused by tsunamis or far more frequent typhoons. Of particular concern is invasion by spartina, which chokes off the normal flow of water vital to the mangrove ecosystems' survival.

The plant's structure – its rhizomes break loose easily and are transported by the water – makes it spread rapidly. The Chinese estimate that as much as 100,000 hectares (nearly 250,000 acres) of mangrove forest are infested by spartina, almost all of it spread by invasion.

Chan's May 16-26 visit is part of a major Chinese initiative to save its remaining mangroves as a protective belt around its coastline and to reduce the threat from invasive species.

"Our goal is to work with the Chinese in sorting through the probable causes of mangrove forest declines, including invasive spartina, and to work cooperatively to develop the best courses of action to protect coastal ecosystems," Chan said.

Accompanying Chan on this initial visit are David Hannaway, an OSU professor of crop science and member of the university's China Initiative Working Group; Merritt Tuttle, a retired official of the National Marine Fisheries Service; Wendy Brown, invasive species manager for the Washington Department of Natural Resources' aquatic resources office; Mike Spranger, Florida Sea Grant Extension program leader; and Edward Jahn and James N. Fisher, producer and photographer for Oregon Public Broadcasting's Oregon Field Guide series.

The Chinese government is funding the trip.

While in China, the team will visit several local forestry bureaus, meet with local officials, tour and observe estuaries and wetlands – both intact and spartina-infested – and will give formal presentations on the potential for ecosystem management and restoration. Chan hopes the trip will result in future collaboration on estuarine wetland restoration, spartina control and related research and public education issues.

"This is an opportunity for members of our team, for OSU and for the Chinese government to work on invasive species as a global issue, and not just a problem caused by organisms transported here from the other side of the ocean," said Chan. "Both of our countries face similar ecologic, economic and health problems from invasive species. We both have concerns about tsunamis and other natural disasters.

“The opportunity to discuss our common problems could allow us to work together seeking comprehensive solutions."

WFI Bids Farewell to Australian Matt Pope

2008-02-28T09:17:00.000-08:00

After one year in Portland, the time arrived for Australian Matthew Pope and his family to return to Tumut, New South Wales.

Matthew’s project examined field technologies used to streamline the management of information between the office and field. Matthew visited forest organizations, hardware and software developers, and had the dubious distinction of driving the entire length of the I-5 corridor from Canada to San Diego in the process. “The scale of the forest industry in the US and Canada is hard to fathom for an Australian,” said Matt. “Rest assured you do not need to worry about Australia flooding the US market.”

Matt has returned to Forests New South Wales to work with radiata pine plantations. “My day-to-day job is so focused that I often don’t have time to look around at broader issues in forestry,” said Matt. “I think the experiences from this year really broadened my professional understanding of forestry. I am looking forward to implementing some of the knowledge I gained and sharing my experiences with other forestry colleagues far and wide.”

Matt’s wife Ainsley is looking forward to beginning teaching, as she recently completed her education degree. The family is excited to be back in the land of sunshine. Four year old Keegan summed it up best as the family went through customs at the Sydney airport. Upon hearing familiar accents, Keegan exclaimed “these people speak our language!”

Alumnus Jasjit Walia at Brown University

2008-02-20T14:54:00.000-08:00

Jasjit has joined the Watson Institute for International Studies at Brown University for a four-month program in Global Environment. We welcome him back to the US for a brief stint, and hope he can make it Portland while he is here! See his profile at: http://www.watsoninstitute.org/contacts_detail.cfm?id=831

Linsen Zhao featured in Eugene City Council Newsletter

2008-02-19T08:47:00.000-08:00

In February, Linsen visited city forester Mark Snyder in
Eugene. Mark wrote a nice piece the city's newsletter. Click here to have a look.

February 2008 WFI Update available for download

2008-02-14T08:19:00.000-08:00

The February 2008 WFI Update is now available to download! In this issue:

Farewell to Australian Nathan Trushel
Parr Lumber Tour
2008 International Educators Institute applications due
Alumni updates from Peijung Wang, Jasjit Walia, John Turland, and others
Harry Merlo's autobiography now available
New Construction Home Tours

WFI Update can be downloaded here:
http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/WFIupdate2.08.pdf

Thanks,
Angie
WFI Program Manager

Aussie Alum Returns to the Pacific Northwest

2008-02-13T14:52:00.000-08:00

WFI Alumnus John Turland is now living in Olympia, Washington where he works for Washington’s Department of Natural Resources as a Senior Forest Management Analyst.

John completed a 12 month WFI fellowship in 2007 where he undertook a study on North American forest modeling software and approaches and the potential applicability to Australian native forest management.

John’s decision to move to the USA to work was the result of career advancement opportunities coupled with the outdoors lifestyle that was too hard to resist. He has spent much of his recreation time fishing for salmon, hiking, snow shoeing and a little skiing as well. “The mountains, rivers, winter snow and lush forest scenery of the PNW more than compensate for beautiful Sydney beaches and weather – for now anyway,” says John.

In his current position, John is involved is growth and yield modeling, formulating forest management planning models and determining strategic sustainable timber supply forecasts that balance economic, social and environmental management objectives on state trust lands. “Learning about silvics of forest trees in the Pacific Northwest, management policies, regulations and using imperial measurement units have all been reasonably steep learning curves,” explained John. “But the foundations provided with the WFI Fellowship training combined with the plethora of knowledge and literature provided by DNR staff have facilitated the transition into the US forest industry.”

Global Connections: 2007 Alumni Meet Again Taiwan

2008-02-13T14:49:00.000-08:00

WFI alumni Pei-jung Wang (Taiwan) and Jasjit Singh Walia (India) met up in Taiwan at the invitation of the Taiwan Forestry Research Institute (TFRI) in December 2007. Coordinated by Pei-jung, Jasjit enjoyed a whirlwind tour of Taiwan’s forest recreation and eco-services projects, and came away inspired by Taiwan’s achievement in community involvement, development of tourist infrastructure, and the protection of traditional aboriginal knowledge.

Jasjit’s tour began with a presentation he gave on “Enhancing livelihood opportunities through Himachal's eco-tourism initiative” at the TFRI office in Taipei. The following day they took the bullet train to Chiayi’s Luman Community, an old timber harvesting site now converted to an ecotourism development, featuring a 19^th century rail-road built by the Japanese to transport logs.

Other activities that followed included a presentation to students at National Chiayi University, and visits to Alishan Forest Recreation Area, Yushan National Park, Tataka recreational area, Chugpu research station, Luodong Forest District Office and Fushan Botanical Garden.

Harry Merlo’s Autobiography “Vintage Merlo” Now Available

2008-02-13T14:47:00.001-08:00

Harry Merlo, the founding father of the World Forest Institute, and current Chair of the World Forestry Center, has written an autobiography appropriately titled, “Vintage Merlo.” Hard work is a key tenet of Harry's many successes, but he has always attributed his good fortune to the life lessons he learned from his mother. "Vintage Merlo" is a loving tribute to Clotilde Merlo, as the book traces Harry's realization of the American Dream.

A book launching party was held at the World Forestry Center in January, attended by nearly 200 guests, who were treated to wine, appetizers, dessert, and even a harmonica waltz by the man of honor himself.

“Vintage Merlo” can be purchased through the World Forestry Center’s bookstore for $19.95. All proceeds of sales go towards the World Forest Institute. To order by phone, please contact Maria Jeffrey at 503-488-2111.

WFI Bids Farewell to Australian Nathan Trushell

2008-02-01T14:32:00.000-08:00

After completing his six-month Fellowship, Nathan had the following to say:

“It is easy to get caught up in your own forestry world at home; fortunately I recognized this and took the opportunity to participate in the WFI program. I would have to say it has opened my eyes to a much bigger global forestry sector, which is good because that was one of the things that I wanted from the program.

I knew that the US was the world’s largest wood producer, but it is only when you get here and try to get your head around this immense forestry sector that you appreciate how big it really is. And including Canada really gets your head spinning. In six months there is no way you can expect to cover everything, you can only get a slice of this highly diverse industry.

Because forestry has some serious reputation issues in Australia I was interested in looking at communication strategies that support the forest products sector. Unfortunately, there is no magical solution but I did learn about some of the strategies and trends being employed here. There is a lot of good work going on, but like Australia the challenges of a large and highly fragmented forest sector still exist.

If I was on a polygraph right now I would have to tell you that travel featured fairly high on my list of reasons for coming to the US. My family and I had the chance to travel around the PNW, the Canadian Rockies and British Columbia, the east coast from New York to Memphis and northern California. We are now embarking on our departure via Arizona, California and Hawaii. Outside the PNW it would be hard to beat the Canadian Rockies for scenery and the high paced atmosphere of New York. Of course, all of this was not just for pleasure as I met with many forest sector professionals during these trips.

It was not only me that enjoyed this time, my wife Helen and daughters Alex and Megan also had a great time. So much so that we are still trying to work out how to get all the stuff they accumulated back home.

One of the great things about the WFI Fellowship program is the chance to get to know the other fellows from other parts of the world and of course the staff at WFI. We had some great laughs and I will look forward to catching up with many of them in the future.”

Visit to Villebois Development in Wilsonville

2008-02-01T09:09:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Wilsonville city planners toured Fellows around Villebois, a development which will house 7,000 new residents. Plans include creating new urban forest cover and preserving existing trees. Click on the houses for more photos.

Hull Oakes Sawmill

2008-01-22T14:57:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Hull Oakes Lumber, the last steam powered mill in Oregon, introduced Fellows to historic sawmilling methods. Click on the photo for more pics.

Frozen Mt. St. Helens

2008-01-16T08:17:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Wow! What a beautiful winter day. We took advantage of a brief moment of sunshine to get up to Mt. St. Helens. The only other traffic on the road was the elk. The volcano was steaming, the snow was 5 feet deep, and we had a great time. Click on the group photo for more pics.

Storm Damage on Oregon Coast

2008-01-15T14:55:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Retired Oregon State Parks forester Al Tocchini and Linsen Zhao (China) survey storm damage near the Klootchy Creek Sitka Spruce, the famous Oregon Heritage Tree which lost its top this winter. For more photos, click on Linsen.

Parr Lumber Provides Solutions, Not Just Products

2008-01-13T14:35:00.000-08:00

Par Lumber 9
Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Thanks to WFC Director David Hamill, Fellows enjoyed a lively discussion with Parr Lumber’s procurement team at their Hillsboro distribution center. Parr is primarily a west coast lumber retailer, but the company also functions as a distributor, broker, wholesaler, manufacturer, and builder with 750 employees.

Parr managers did an excellent job explaining the complex wood supply chain to Fellows. When asked how they are able to stay competitive with such diverse offerings, Director of Procurement Matt Jeffries explained that they are constantly challenged to prove the value they bring to clients, otherwise they are the first to be eliminated in the supply chain. Providing excellent service and “solutions, not just products” has led to success.

A recent innovation from the company is their “Get Real” programs, a response to the green movement. Parr sees a need for smaller, energy efficient, quality homes in the market and the Get Real program provides customers with sustainable solutions without getting caught up in labeling and certification.

Fellows were impressed with the Parr managers’ passion for their work. Employees tend to stay with the company for a long time, and many managers worked their way up from entry level positions. Matt Jeffries, for example, started as a truck driver. His advice for success: “be innovative, and never assume that what you did yesterday will get you through tomorrow.”

For more photos, click on the Parr Truck!

Fellows Search for Innovative Products in New Homes

2008-01-04T14:38:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Posing as an unusual nuclear family, Fellows went shopping for a new home in Portland. The US housing market has slowed to the lowest pace in decades, and real estate agents were happy to show Fellows newly constructed homes lingering on the market. This was an opportunity to compare construction practices and living styles between cultures, and to better understand the American lifestyle that drives the US lumber industry and economy.

The tour was of particular interest to Korean Fellow Namgon Kwag, who works for Eagon Ltd., a luxury building products supplier and builder. For his project, Namgon is searching for innovative home products that could be introduced to the Korean market, particularly in flooring or windows. Namgon paid special attention to heating systems, which are done quite differently in the US. Korea has a unique radiant flooring system for heating called the “Ondol.”

The average American house size has more than doubled since the 1950s and now stands at 2,300 square feet, although Fellows saw homes double that size with price tags of up to USD $700,000. Some memorable features included Brazilian hardwood flooring, extensive use of OSB, large kitchens, media and wine rooms, and creative storm water management systems.
Click on the giant house for more photos.

December 2007 WFI Update available for download

2007-12-13T09:51:00.000-08:00

The December 2007 WFI Update is now available to download! In this issue:

Welcome to New Fellows from China and Korea
Weyerhaeuser Federal Way Headquarters Tour
Farewell to Lithuanian Fellow Nerijus Miskinis
Particleboard and Kraft Paper Mill Tours
Taiwanese Alumni Reunion in Taipei: Photos from WFI Director's Trip to Taiwan

WFI Update can be downloaded here:
http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/WFIupdate12.07.pdf

Thanks,
Angie
WFI Program Manager

WFI Welcomes New Fellows from China and Korea

2007-12-06T09:39:00.000-08:00

In November, Dr. Linsen Zhao joined WFI for a six-month Fellowship. Linsen is a professor in Landscape Architecture at the Southwest Forestry College in Kunming, Yunnan, China and he is sponsored by the China Scholarship Council. Linsen’s background is in silviculture, however, he has been working in urban forestry since 2001. In 2002-2003 Linsen spent one year at UC Berkley as a visiting scholar studying urban forestry.

During his Fellowship, Linsen will research social issues related to urban forestry, and is particularly interested in public participation in planning, planting and maintaining urban forests. He will also spend time working with research methodology for carbon sequestration by urban vegetation and various models that estimate the benefits of urban forests such as STRATUM and CITYGreen.

In December, Mr. Namgon Kwag also joined WFI for a six-month Fellowship. Namgon is sponsored by his employer, Eagon. Namgon is the fifth Fellow to be sponsored by Eagon, whose closest office is in Seattle. Namgon is a manager on the Management Support Team for Eagon Living Co. Ltd, a wood flooring subsidiary, and deals with planning and corporate activities. Previously, he has worked with Eagon on a variety of tasks, including corporate strategy planning, labor affairs, flooring distribution, and wood veneer purchasing.

During his Fellowship, Namgon will be exploring homebuilding and decorating trends and the housing market. He is interested in how Americans do business and how they are currently dealing with environmental issues.

Weyerhaeuser Kraft Mill

2007-12-04T09:38:00.000-08:00

Mill 1 (1)
Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Weyerhaeuser operates a pulp and paper Kraft mill in Albany that processes 1800 tons of raw material per day. Approximately 50% of the fiber used is pulped from chips, mostly from mill waste. The remainder is from recycled packaging. Materials are brought to the facility by truck, almost all from within a 50 mile radius. The final product, which is a three layer kraft paper, is sent for finishing as linerboard and bags at other facilities.

Click on Deepak and Weyco Engineer Scott Freeburn for more photos.

Flakeboard Particleboard Mill Tour

2007-12-04T09:32:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Flakeboard, a Canadian company, operates a Duraflake particleboard plant in Albany. Duraflake is a well known brand name and they produce a wide variety of panels for cabinetry, furniture, underlayment, and sheet stock. Recently there has been more demand for green certified products and they have a specialty line made without urea or formaldehyde. Altogther, the mill produces 435,000 m3 annually.

Raw materials and waste from other mills are dried, milled and blended with resins, glue, and wax. There are separate formulas for the particleboard face and core. The blended materials are then formed, pressed, sanded, and trimmed before being shipped to customers across the US.

For more photos click on the sign!

Farewell, Nerijus!

2007-12-01T09:42:00.000-08:00

2007 passed quickly for Nerijus Miskinis, WFI’s first Lithuanian Fellow, who completed his Fellowship in December. Nerijus’ Fellowship was sponsored by the Shelk Foundation. During his time at WFI, Nerijus interviewed CEOs and managers in the forest industry in order to compare forest sector issues between the two countries.

“I feel lucky because I worked on such a project,” said Nerijus. “I liked what I did, I greatly enjoyed the people I met and I strongly believe it will help me improve my personal life in the future. How and how much? Probably I will answer this question completely 20 years later!”

Nerijus is planning to travel to Brazil before returning to Lithuania to finish his Ph.D. project at the Lithuanian University of Agriculture.

Farewells are always difficult, but Nerijus will remember the good times. “I would consider the World Forestry Center my home in the US,” said Nerijus. “I will miss this Rose City!”

Taiwanese Alumni Reunite in Taipei

2007-11-30T09:29:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

In November, WFI Director Sara Wu visited Taiwan and had the opportunity to meet with all of WFI’s Taiwanese alumni, most of them from the Taiwan Forest Research Institute.

The reunion kicked off atop the Taipei World Trade Center, where dinner was held in a suite overlooking the city nightscape. Those attending included Mr. Yen-Chang Chen and his wife and younger son, Dr. Chiung-Pin “Bonnie” Liu, Dr. Jiunn-Cheng "David" Lin and his wife and two sons, I-Shang Chen, Dr. John Wu, Min-Chung “Galy” Yang, and Dr. Pei-Jung Wang and her husband and baby son. Hosting the event were Sara Wu, her father and his wife.

Many of the alumni had to travel far to attend the dinner, as David is director of the remote Taimali research station, Yen-Chang is now director of the Fushan forest recreation reserve, and Bonnie teaches at a university in Tai-chung. The effort they made to attend the dinner was greatly appreciated and it was an opportunity to catch up on what everyone has been doing.

In the days following the alumni reunion, Bonnie accompanied Sara and her family to Fushan, where the Taiwan Forest Research Institute operates an experimental research forest that is also a popular tourist site. Yen-Chang Chen is now the director of the research station. The Fushan watershed feeds into Taipei’s drinking water catchment and visitors are restricted to 300 persons a day to protect the wildlife habitat and watershed. Director Chen invited the Wus to stay the night at the TFRI research facilities, which includes living quarters. Wildlife is plentiful at the reserve, including monkeys, various birds, wild pigs, bats, and insects. There are also fern gardens, a rhododendron garden and rare native species. University students and faculty routinely conduct studies at Fushan, and a small but effective staff, along with hundreds of volunteers, help to maintain trails and provide educational interpretation. Some of the plants at Fushan have medicinal potential and are being analyzed to produce commercial applications.

After Fushan, Bonnie met the Wus in Taichung, where they took Taiwan’s new high-speed rail to get there in less than an hour from Taipei. Bonnie is a professor of watershed ecology, the only female faculty in the entire forestry department. One of her students toured the group through the newly opened National Museum of Natural Science, where a large indoor arboretum houses a waterfall, canopy walk and many tropical plants. The museum also boasts a life-size, multi-million dollar robotic T-Rex dinosaur. The museum is one of many new recreational parks and visitor centers that Taiwan is building to attract tourists. WFI sends heartfelt thanks to our Taiwanese alumni for facilitating these trips!

For more photos, click on the group picture.

WFI Networks with CINTRAFOR and University of Washington

2007-11-08T09:26:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

The University of Washington is one of the largest Pacific Northwest schools with 38,000 students. The College of Forest Resources (CFR) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees. Fellows spent a day in Seattle utilizing the expertise of the CFR faculty and staff.

CINTRAFOR (Center for International Trade in Forest Products) Director Ivan Eastin and Professor John Perez-Garcia hosted Fellows for a session on softwood lumber exports. The group learned about trends in wood products trade, which was of particular interest to Mariane Camargo (Brazil) who is researching moulding and millwork markets. WFI hopes to collaborate further with CINTRAFOR on projects in the future.

Fellows also met individually with a variety of professors to discuss their projects, on topics of sustainability, technology, marketing, and trade.

In the afternoon Fellows attended the Denman Forestry Issues Series, which was a four-hour series of presentations on biofuels and bioenergy. Over ten speakers provided a variety of viewpoints on Washington’s biomass resources and processing issues.

Fellows Receive Insiders’ Tour at Weyerhaeuser

2007-11-06T09:24:00.000-08:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows traveled to Federal Way, Washington, to visit with Weyerhaeuser at their corporate headquarters. Weyerhaeuser is one of the largest forest products companies world-wide, with an annual sales revenue of $21.9B USD and 46,700 employees in 18 countries. A large majority of their forestlands are located in Canada (26 million acres) but they also manage over 6 million acres in the US.

Jim James, the Director for Environmental Affairs, hosted Fellows and arranged a variety of speakers and presentations. Jim has hosted WFI in the past and is well versed in Weyerhaeuser’s inner workings. He explained some of the company’s core values, one of which is safety. The company believes that there is no such thing as accidents and that all incidents are preventable. Thus, the group received safety briefings at each stage in the tour.

Another of Weyerhaeuser’s focus areas is sustainability. All Weyerhaeuser lands are certified, predominately with the Sustainable Forest Initiative in North America, and elsewhere according to local schemes or ISO 4001. Jim explained that certification may not give a market premium, but it does give market access or preferred supplier status, especially to large companies such as Home Depot. Additionally, certification is viewed by the company as being a good management practice.

Speakers touched on a wide variety of topics of interest to Fellows, including investments in South America and the marketing of Lyptus, a brand for eucalyptus products. Tracking in the log supply chain was explained by the IT department. A researcher from their inventory department discussed experimental plans using LIDAR to acquire inventory data, although this is still in the research phase and much of the information is proprietary.

Fellows were also treated to a tour of the Technology Center. This top secret facility is one of the few remaining large research centers run by forest products companies. Home to 400 researchers, the center conducts a variety of studies, from product quality and strength testing to genetic improvement and cloning to new product development.

Fellows were impressed with the managers’ dedication to the company and the strides the company is taking to stay ahead in today’s difficult market.

Salmon Life Cycle

2007-11-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

Salmon Life cycle 9
Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows learned about the salmon lifecycle by visiting wild salmon spawning in Eagle Creek and viewing hatchery production at Bonneville Dam. Click on the fish for more photos.

October 2007 WFI Update Available for Download

2007-10-11T14:32:00.000-07:00

The October 2007 WFI Update is now available to download! In this issue:

"Investing Globally in Forestland" conference a great sucess
Siuslaw and Siskiyou National Forests Tour
Farewell to Chinese Fellow Zengwang Ma
Welcome to Chinese Weyerhaeuser Scholar
Updates from our Alumni Kyungtae Park, Andreas Schuck, Jussi Silventoinen, Runar Gareyev, Inchul Jung, Claudio Ortolan, Mario Angel and Alex Battistella

WFI Update can be downloaded here:
http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/WFIupdate10.07.pdf

Thanks,
Angie
WFI Program Manager

WFI Bids Farewell to Chinese Fellow Zengwang Ma

2007-10-11T13:36:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

After spending one year at WFI, Zengwang Ma will depart for his hometown in Hebei, China. “I had one year great time to conduct this program in Oregon,” said Ma. “I have regarded Portland as my second hometown, hopefully, I will have a chance to visit again.”

In Hebei, Ma is a researcher involved in restoration projects. His province has completed many projects to restore degraded ecological systems, which are now vigorous young forests. The task at hand now is to manage these young stands for future threats, including wildfire prevention, invasive species, and new forestland management techniques. During his program Ma examined the Oregon experience for dealing with such problems in order to take lessons back to Hebei. Ma recommends an integrated strategy that keeps ecosystem integrity mind and involves long-term planning, forest management, and research.

“I am missing my family after this one year abroad,” said Ma. “The first thing I’ll do when I return is spend some time with my wife and daughter, then I will continue my forestry research at Hebei Academy of Forestry Science.” We wish Ma all the best upon his return journey.

Medford Moulding

2007-09-28T13:30:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Paul McKay and Lara Stinger toured Fellows around Medford Moulding’s mill and veneer slicing operation. Click on the group for more photos.

Camping and Yurts and Dunes!

2007-09-27T13:33:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows visited Siuslaw National Forests Dunes recreation area. Click on Deepak and Angie for more pics.

Biscuit Fire

2007-09-27T13:28:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows visited the Siskiyou National Forest, home of the 2002 Biscuit Fire. The Biscuit Fire burned nearly 500,000 over 4 months, and the cost of suppression efforts totaled over US$150 million (more than 7 times the annual budget of this national forest). In the years following, there were several salvage sales that were the source of conflict for the public, even though they represented a very small percent of the burn. Forest Supervisor Joel King and Partnership Coordinator Paul Galloway discussed their experiences working with communities and activists with Fellows while touring the Biscuit. Fellows were impressed by their positive attitudes and proactive approaches of involving the local community in forest management. Click on the trees for more photos.

Now that's a big tree!

2007-09-27T13:26:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows visited Redwoods State Parks in California to see the world’s tallest trees. Click on the Stout Tree for more pics.

Siuslaw National Forest

2007-09-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Over the past decades, federal forest management in the Pacific Northwest has undergone a dramatic shift from providing large volumes of timber to conservation values. With new demands from the public, managers have placed more emphasis on ecosystem restoration and watershed health. Fellows visited a much discussed national forest, the Siuslaw.

The Siuslaw is praised as a prime example of collaboration between environmental groups, local communities, and USFS managers. One-third of all harvest on the Siuslaw falls under Stewardship Contracting, which permits the forest to retain receipts from sales and return the value of these harvests to restoration. Project proposals are approved by a diverse group of stakeholders. Resulting projects have primarily focused on habitat improvement and stream restoration.

The majority of stewardship harvests are accomplished via thinning, which pleases environmentalists and avoids the controversy of the clearcut. Sales are rarely appealed in the Siuslaw and stakeholders on all sides appear content. Click on the photo for more pics.

Investing Globally in Forestland

2007-09-11T13:31:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

On September 10-12, 2007 WFI held its first Global Series event in the “Who Will Own the Forest?” series of summits. The event entitled “Investing Globally in Forestland,” was attended by 275 representatives from the forest industry, TIMOs, pensions and investment community and consultants. The conference examined potential benefits and challenges to investing in timberland and was directed to investors in U.S. properties and to issues encountered by investors in acquiring offshore properties.

21 speakers from various countries presented, including WFC directors Colin McKenzie, Dennis Neilson, Bill Bradley, Ken Hines, Jeff Nuss and Rick Smith. Sponsorship for the event was at an all-time high of 18 corporations and associations: American Forest & Paper Association, Forest Capital Partners, The Forestland Group, Forest Systems, Green Crow, Green Diamond Resource Company, Hancock Timber Resource Group, John Hancock Bond and Corporate Finance Group, MetLife Timberland Finance Group, Moss Adams, Port Blakely Tree Farms, RMK Timberland Group, Royal Bank of Scotland, Stimson Lumber Company, Stoel Rives, Sutherland Asbill & Brennan, Timberland Investment Resources, and TimberWest.

The success of the event highlighted that interest in timberlands as an asset class remains strong. With land values in North America rising, many investors are now eyeing opportunities offshore.

Click on WFC President Gary Hartshorn for more photos.

Rehabilitation at Reed Canyon

2007-09-07T13:43:00.001-07:00

Kill that Ivy!
Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Reed Canyon Manager Zac Perry toured Fellows around the Reed College Canyon to discuss ecosystem resoration, or rehabilitation, the term that Zac prefers. This 28 acre area contains the headwaters for the Crystal Springs Creek. Unmanaged until 1999, Canyon rehab began with an alumnus grant. Fellows examined some of the projects in the canyon, which involve fighting invasive species such as himalayan blackberry, english ivy, wild clematis, and morning glory. Also of great interest were recently installed fish ladders, which appear to be working as salmon returned for the first time last year. More information can be found at the Reed Canyon website at: http://web.reed.edu/canyon/. Click on Ma removing some english ivy to see more photos.

WFI Update Now Available for Download

2007-08-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

The August 2007 WFI Update is now available to download! In this issue:

Welcome to new Fellows from Nepal and Australia
Eastern Oregon forest tour at MC Ranch
11th Annual International Educators Institute
Updates from our Alumni

WFI Update can be downloaded here:
http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/WFIupdate8.07.pdf

Thanks,
Angie
WFI Program Manager

WFI Welcomes Nepalese and Australian

2007-08-05T15:54:00.000-07:00

In August, WFI welcomed Deepak Dorje Tamang from Nepal and Nathan Trushell from Australia. Both of these Fellows signal new partnerships in sponsorship for the Fellowship Program.

Deepak is a senior development specialist with nearly 3 decades of experience working in rural development and environment, including extension, capacity building, planning and monitoring, in Nepal and other countries in South, Central and South-East Asia. He currently heads a non profit organization in Nepal called Search-Nepal (www.searchnepal.org.)

Nepal, with 10 of the 14 highest mountains in the world, suffered environmental degradation, deforestation, and soil erosion from the 1950s-1970s due to poor policies. However, the government and private sector have since worked together for better laws and Nepal has seen much improvement since, especially in reforestation, environmental protection, conservation and biodiversity. Improvements have also been made to promote a variety of forest ownerships, including community, leasehold and private forests. National parks have been created, bringing in much needed eco- and heritage- tourism and mountaineering.

Deepak will spend 12 months researching comparative environmental legislations in the US and other Fellows’ countries in forestry, environment, national parks, conservation and biological diversity. Deepak’s study aims to identify good policy case studies that balance population, environment and development.

Nathan Trushell and his family arrived the same weekend from Australia. Nathan is employed as a regional manager with VicForests, overseeing business operations throughout West Gippsland, Victoria. VicForests was established in 2004 as a government owned business enterprise with responsibility for the commercial sale, harvest and regeneration of the state source within the state of Victoria. Over the last three years the organization has focused on designing and implementing its fundamental business model. This has included the development of a market based sales system for timber from forest resource within the state of Victoria. Over the last three years the organization has focused on designing and implementing its fundamental business model. This has included the development of a market based sales system for timber from state forest via an electronic online sales system (the first in Australia), implementation of mill door sales and the development of a sustainable forest management system certified to the Australian Forestry Standard. VicForests sells approximately 1.6 million cubic meters of native eucalypt hardwood, mainly to domestic processors in the sawn timber and pulp and paper sectors of the forest industry.

Nathan will spend six months exploring commercial forestry promotion and branding strategies within the supply chain. Despite forest management undergoing massive change over the past two decades within Australia, there is still ongoing debate surrounding production forestry, particularly within native forests. Complexities of the economic, social and environmental aspects of forest management make it difficult for evidence or scientifically based information to be easily relayed to key stakeholders. To ensure the security of the industry into the future effective promotional and branding strategies are essential. Upon return to Australia Nathan will take on a new role with VicForests as Business Development Manager and will continue some of this work.

Nathan’s wife Helen and daughters Alex and Megan join him in Portland. Helen, also a forester, is taking a break from work to enjoy the Pacific Northwest while Alex and Megan will attend school in Portland.

Schmidt Nursery Tour

2007-08-02T15:53:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows toured Schmidt Nursery with Karl Dawson and the Neighborhood Tree Liaison Program. Click on the photo for more pics.

Environmental Educators and Researchers Work Together at IEI

2007-08-01T15:50:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

For the 11th year, the World Forestry Center hosted the International Educators Institute. This weeklong study tour is set against the dramatic Pacific Northwest landscape and uses local examples to explore sustainability issues.

A diverse group of participants came together from around the world, including award winning environmental educators and natural resource professionals. Each day a different theme led participants to examine topics related to the Montreal Process, including research, protection, communities, disturbance, and management. Participants also exchanged best practices in forestry education and provided their own unique perspectives on global issues.

The group stayed overnight in the Columbia River Gorge. Long travel days were spent visiting with representatives of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Weyerhaeuser Learning Center, the Portland urban forest, and US Forest Service lands. For many participants, this was their first experience in the Pacific Northwest, as well as with participants from far away places such as Palestine and Denmark.

One of the key components of the program is creating an international network. Participants plan to keep in touch to exchange ideas and information. There are many stories of previous participants working together beyond the week-long course. More photos and information can be found at http://internationaleduca-torsinstitute.blogspot.com/.

Eastern Oregon Forest Management highlighted at MC Ranch

2007-07-16T15:48:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

For the second year in a row, the WFI Fellows were invited to observe eastern forest management in La Grande, Oregon, hosted by Harry Merlo at his 13,000 acre MC Ranch, and guided by ranch manager Rex Christensen. The four-day event featured two days of equipment demonstrations led by Tom King of SuperTrak, which modifies Caterpillars into mulching machines that can process large areas of slash into mulch and woody biomass for utilization. Also on hand for the demonstrations were Rick Wagner of the Oregon Department of Forestry and several landowners and contractors.

La Grande is located in northeastern Oregon, in an area referred to as the Blue Mountains. The area is rich in forests, with the majority owned by the federal government. The MC Ranch is nestled within dense stands of ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, lodgepole pine, and western larch, with smaller volumes of white fir and several hardwood species. Large populations of elk and deer inhabit the land, which is used for hunting. Parts of the ranch are also used for grazing cattle.
The aim of the MC Ranch is to improve forestland quality for commercial, recreational and wildlife purposes. Poor logging practices in the past left large volumes of slash on the ground, posing a fire risk. Traditionally, slash is piled and burned. However, fire risk and rising labor costs led the MC Ranch to experiment with a high-tech solution. SuperTrak equipment can cover 20 acres/day, grinding down dead trees, stumps, and downed logs into mulch chips, reducing the fire hazard, scarifying the soil and crushing pines and seeds to encourage germination, and leaving a layer of mulch on the ground which helps to retain moisture for seedlings. Currently the MC Ranch is able to use the equipment to produce “dirty chips” (with bark) which are sold to utility companies. The landowner believes that co-generation will become an important source of alternative income for timber growers.

After the demonstrations, Rex Christensen took the Fellows on a tour of areas thinned last year, including a stand that was marked by last year’s Fellows in a tree marking exercise. The Fellows even got in a few horse rides, shooting lessons and a chance to try their hand at driving a SuperTrak machine. Each day a traditional wagon train catered dutch oven food. It was an experience not to be forgotten. Click on the SuperTrak for more photos.

WFI Update Now Available for Download

2007-06-28T09:53:00.000-07:00

The June 2007 WFI Update is now available to download! In this issue:

Welcome to new Brazilian Fellow, Mariane Bueno de Camargo
Site visits to tree breeding, growing sites
Award for Education Director Rick Zenn
Site visits to GreenWood Resources, small woodland owners, and SAF and more
Updates from our Alumni

WFI Update can be downloaded here:
http://wfi.worldforestrycenter.org/WFIupdate6.07.pdf

Thanks,
Angie
WFI Program Manager

Education Director Rick Zenn Recognized with Award

2007-06-28T09:50:00.000-07:00

The Education Program at the World Forestry Center has earned top honors from Oregon State University and the Oregon Department of Forestry. Rick Zenn, Education Director, received the Mary Rellergert Forestry Education Award in June at a meeting of the Oregon Board of Forestry. The third annual award recognizes individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the advancement of education and understanding about forestry.

Rick Zenn has been Education Director at the World Forestry Center since 1990 and has a passion for creating programming that engages people in "hands-on" learning. He is an internationally recognized environmental educator with over 30 years experience in the field as naturalist, guide, program manager and trainer. He has worked on educational initiatives with the Smithsonian Institution, World Wildlife Fund, and the US Forest Service, and has served as advisor to many conservation and education organizations and is a member of the Project Learning Tree National Education Committee.

Students from Portland and beyond have benefited from education programs at the WFC Discovery Museum and at the center’s demonstration forests near Wilsonville and Silverton. The program reaches more than 600 schools and community groups and 10,000 children each year. WFC’s museum, camps, lectures, programs, field tours and forest education events have helped connect kids with trees and forests for more than twenty years.

The award was named to honor The Oregon Department of Forestry’s former Tillamook State Forest Education Coordinator, Mary Rellergert, who passed away in February 2004. Rellergert was a founder of the Tillamook State Forest Education Program, which provides high quality forest learning experiences for K-12 students at the Tillamook Forest Center.

Weyerhaeuser Turner Regeneration Center

2007-06-13T09:44:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Quality timber stands begin with quality seed. There are several quality seed orchards in the PNW, where seed was originally selected in the wild for desired characteristics, and subsequent generations were propagated, bred, and tested to provide improved planting stock. Fellows visited with Jerry Barnes at the Weyerhaeuser Turner Regeneration center in Turner. The center aims to provide quality seedlings for reforestation on their own lands and also sell to landowners for a reasonable cost. Click on Mari for more photos.

Joint SAF Meeting

2007-06-11T09:18:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows joined Portland, Salem, and Capital Chapters of SAF for a joint meeting at the Oregon Garden in Silverton. For more photos, click on the Fellows.

Foresters attending local Society of American Foresters (SAF) meetings may have noticed a few new international accents this year as WFI’s Fellows have participated in SAF events around the Portland area. SAF is composed of professional foresters and technicians and gatherings are perfect opportunities for Fellows to network with other professionals.

In addition to regularly attending the Portland Chapter meetings, Fellows have connected with various other regional SAF groups. Earlier this year, Zengwang Ma presented to the Tillamook Chapter about forest restoration in his hometown of Hebei, China. Ma was able to find many similarities between the reforestation work done in Hebei and work completed to reforest the Tillamook after a series of fires 50 years ago. In May, Matt Pope presented to the Longview Chapter and shared his experiences working in radiata pine plantations in New South Wales, Australia.

Fellows also participated in the Oregon SAF state meeting in Bend, Oregon. In addition to hearing speakers and networking, the state meeting included a field tour of east-side fire issues involving stewardship contracting, restoration, and a variety of treatments to reduce fire risk. Fellows plan to be a continued presence at SAF events, including the National Convention in October in Portland.

Annual State Urban Forestry Conference

2007-06-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

Fellows attendedthe annual state urban forestry conference, sponsored by Oregon Department of Forestry and Oregon Community Trees in Salem, Oregon. The theme for this year was "How Trees Create Community" and featured speakers include Dr. Kathy Wolf of the University of Washington, Wilsonville Mayor Charlotte Lehan, and many others.

WFI Welcomes Newest Fellow from Brazil

2007-06-05T09:22:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

On Memorial weekend, WFI welcomed Mariane Bueno de Camargo, the first female Brazilian fellow to join its international fellowship program. Brazilian participation has a long history at WFI, going back to Alexander Battistella from Battistella Ind. e Com. Ltda in 1994, and followed by three others, all from the forest products sector. Claudio Ortolan, an alumnus and currently with Klabin—Brazil's largest paper producer and exporter—was instrumental in arranging Mariane's arrival as WFI's current Brazilian Fellow.

Since her graduation from University of Parana State in 2004, Mariane has been working as a forestry engineer for a number of large multinational companies. She decided to continue her education in combination with her work and recently received a post-graduate engineer’s diploma in environmental sciences from Jaguariaiva College of Parana State University.

In her first job at International Paper Company in Parana State, Mariane’s responsibility was the forest inventory of 30,000 hectares of forest plantation. She also participated in reforestation projects with a focus on pine and eucalyptus species. Following International Paper, Mariane broadened her experience working at RIPASA Company in São Paulo State, where she was responsible for forest harvest and continuous raw material supply chain planning.

Mariane feels honored to be sponsored by Klabin S/A Company which is one of the biggest producers of paper and pulpwood in the world. Her family has a long history with the company—she is the 8th person in her family to work for Klabin.

Mariane will spend one year studying and researching current and potential markets for Brazilian wood products, as well as exploring business trends which affect demand for Brazilian plantation wood. In particular, she will focus on the molding and fencing industries.

In addition to the professional and business opportunities offered by this fellowship, Mariane is thrilled to have the experience of living in and learning about American culture. Mariane is more than sure that her one year fellowship program at WFI will not only greatly influence her future career but also make a huge impact on her personal growth.

Hancock Timber Resource Group

2007-05-24T12:05:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows visited with HTRG to visit their Cathlamet properties. Click on Cristopher for more photos.

Belton Tree Farms

2007-05-22T11:54:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Family forest owner Mr. John Belton, hosted Fellows for a tour of his 200 acres near Mt. Hood. The land has been in his family for over 100 years, when one of his relatives was a Portland doctor and patients occasionally paid for services with a variety of items, including land. John discussed his management philosophy and objectives with Fellows, which is quite different from other ownership groups that Fellows have visited. John focuses on niche markets for his products, which besides logs, include cherry bark for basket making, alder chips for smoking, and finished products such as picnic tables. Click on John and the salal for more photos.

Oregon SAF State Meeting

2007-05-17T11:51:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute

Fellows participated in the Oregon SAF state meeting in Bend, Oregon. In addition to hearing speakers and networking, the state meeting included a field tour of east-side fire issues involving stewardship contracting, restoration, and a variety of treatments to reduce fire risk. Click on the photo of the Black Crater Fire map for more photos.

Cascade Timber Consulting

2007-05-07T11:19:00.000-07:00

President Dave Furtwangler and Silviculture Director Bill Marshall toured the Fellows around Cascade Timber Consulting in Sweet Home, Oregon. The company manages 145,000 acres, 95% of them belonging to the Hill family trust. We spent the day learning about the company, which has about 40 employees, and their work managing forestlands. We were able to visit an active cable logging operation and meeting with the forester in charge of the timber sale. This was the first logging operation for most of the Fellows. Cris was amazed at the engineering efforts on steep slopes and decided that he never wants to be the choker setter. The company prides themselves on their ability to get a good dollar for their logs, by maximizing their sorts and logging in the wintertime when prices are at a premium (and they prepare for this by having an excellent rock road system and giving extra care to environmental concerns). The afternoon was spent seeing some of their research in their Douglas-fir seed orchard – the oldest in the PNW, started in 1961. We also were able to see some of their vegetation management plots that were set up in conjunction with OSU. The plots show varied treatments for competing vegetation in young plantations over 5 years – now I think that Ma finally understands why we use herbicides in establishing stands! Dave and Bill were gracious hosts, and were very knowledgeable and patient with all of our questions. They even brought out some great props – including Giusseppi the stuffed Mountain Beaver – to illustrate their points. Click on the photo for more pics.

GreenWood Resources

2007-04-25T15:19:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute.

Fellows visited with Richard Shuren and Rick Stonex at GreenWood Resources. GreenWood breeds, tests, and grows hybrid poplars for use in the US, China, S. America, and other locations around the world. Click on Ma and his favorite clones for more photos.

Volunteer Day at Magness Tree Farm

2007-04-21T15:11:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute.

Fellows volunteered to help clean up Magness Tree Farm's trails and remove ivy alongside a team from Mason Bruce & Girard. Click on Nerijus and Ma for more photos.

Port Blakley Tree Farms

2007-04-11T15:16:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by World Forest Institute.

Kelly Stanley allowed Fellows to tag along to an education tour with a group of fourth graders. Click on Cris for more pics.