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.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
February 2009 WFI Update Now Available
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
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."
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
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.
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.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Weyerhaeuser Aurora Nursery Amazes Fellows with Production
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.
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.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Strategic Planning and Interpretation Explored at Tillamook Forest
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.
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.
Monday, January 12, 2009
An extra ordinary experience
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.
Sunday, January 04, 2009
December Snow Turns WFC into Winter Wonderland
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.
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.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Join us! Educator Sought for World Forest Institute Fellowship
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.
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
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
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
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Fellows Travel to Nevada for SAF Annual Convention
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
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
Saturday, November 01, 2008
All things salmon
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.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Doggie Palooza
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.
Thursday, October 09, 2008
October 2008 WFI Update Now Available
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!
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.
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.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Angie visits Oz
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.
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.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Sell Out Crowd at Forestland Investment Forum
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.
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.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Forestry Sites with an Educator’s Perspective
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.
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.
Monday, August 04, 2008
August 2008 WFI Update Now Available
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
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Researchers and Teachers Come Together for 2008 IEI
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.
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.
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