Southern Group of State Foresters

#ICYMI Important support is on the way for disaster recovery. The recently passed temporary federal funding measure (Continuing Resolution) includes critical relief for private forest landowners—who manage 86% of southern forests—recovering from hurricanes and other natural disasters. This funding was made possible through relentless advocacy by the Southern Group of State Foresters, the National Association of State Foresters and other partners, working to secure the resources landowners need to restore their forests and livelihoods. Learn more about this hard-fought win: https://bit.ly/40bYiRo

As the year winds down, we’re taking a moment to appreciate the partnerships and hard work that keep our southern forests thriving. Whether you’re celebrating with twinkling lights or a cozy campfire, we hope this season brings you peace, joy and time spent in the beauty of nature. #forestproud

🌲💧 What does the future hold for water and forests in the South? The U.S. Forest Service Southern Research Station just released the Southern Forest Outlook water report is here, unveiling key trends and challenges shaping the years ahead. Explore the insights that matter most: https://bit.ly/3Dc1CD3

NEW BLOG: https://bit.ly/3Dbz5xD The holiday season can be challenging for many, including forestry and wildfire professionals. This year, the aftermath of the 2024 hurricane season has added to the emotional toll many are already feeling. Our new Mental Health Resource Guide offers tools to navigate stress, grief and burnout. #MentalHealth #Wildfire #Forestry #Grief #Stress

As Native American Heritage Month comes to a close, we want to celebrate the incredible role Tribal Nations continue to play in caring for our forests. In fact, many of the prescribed fire practices we use today are inspired by traditional knowledge passed down through generations. These methods help keep forests healthy, protect wildlife and reduce the risk of dangerous wildfires. 🌲🔥 We’re grateful for the wisdom and collaboration of Tribal communities in keeping southern forests strong and sustainable. #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth #PrescribedFire #GoodFire #SouthernForests

“Gratitude is the beginning of wisdom, but it finds its fullness in serving others.” 🦃🍁 This Thanksgiving, we’re deeply grateful for the incredible people and partnerships working hand in hand to sustain our forests and support the communities that depend on them. Together, we’re building a legacy of resilience and stewardship for future generations. Here’s to a season filled with gratitude, fellowship and shared purpose. #Thanksgiving #SouthernForests

Want a career that makes a real impact? As a Forest Health Specialist with a state forestry agency, you’ll safeguard forests from pests, diseases and environmental threats—ensuring these vital ecosystems thrive for generations. Join a mission-driven team, work in stunning environments and make a difference in the health of our environment. Find your perfect fit at https://lnkd.in/eJu3iGFJ #ForestryCareers #SouthernForests

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT! Disasters like hurricanes and wildfires devastate private forest landowners, who lack the recovery programs they need. Healthy private forests are essential to the environment and economy - but we need your help to safeguard their public benefits. Reach out to your congressional representatives and let them know this matters to you! We’re calling on lawmakers to: ✅ Approve $1.38B in disaster recovery block grants. ✅ Provide $101M for states to deliver Cooperative Forestry Assistance disaster support. ✅ Pass the Disaster Reforestation Act. ✅ Support the Forest Products Supply Chain post-disaster. ✅ Provide $15 million through for increased costs associated with post-disaster assessments and other research needs. ✅ Enhance the Emergency Forest Restoration Program and improve its efficacy. ✅ Deliver funding through FEMA to support hazard tree removal in beetle-impacted communities, including along roads, rights-of-way and adjacent to structures. #DisasterRecovery

One of the biggest challenges we face in the South is the rapid expansion of the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) - where homes and communities meet wildlands, creating a critical zone of heightened wildfire risk. Fighting wildfires in the WUI is more challenging and dangerous for wildland firefighters due to the combination of natural vegetation and human-made materials like homes and vehicles, which can lead to unpredictable fire behavior, increasing the risk of injury, equipment damage and entrapment for firefighters.

New Insights on Southern Forest Markets! 🌳 A new report from the Southern Forest Outlook is out, shedding light on how technology and trade trends are shaping the forest product markets in the South: 📈 The South is projected to remain a net exporter of forest products, driving growth across the region. 🔄 Industrial roundwood prices are expected to rise, reversing recent declines. 🏗️ Widespread use of mass timber could significantly strengthen the southern softwood market. 🌐 Additional trade barriers could boost softwood exports but potentially reduce hardwood exports. 🔥 Wood pellet production is set to increase in the South, creating more opportunities across the board. Dive into the full report for an in-depth look at the trends impacting Southern forests at https://bit.ly/4eunxSU. #SouthernForestry #ForestProducts #MassTimber #WoodPellets #ForestEconomy #SustainableForestry U.S. Forest Service