Forestry and Natural Resources

Out there for Oregon’s forests. Here for Oregonians.

Forests and the diverse natural resources associated with them are an important part of southwest Oregon’s landscape, heritage, economy, and way of life. Did you know that our local forests are among the most species-rich in North America?

As your local Forestry and Natural Resources Extension agent, my job is to utilize the latest research and innovations from Oregon State University and other institutions to provide science-based education and expertise. Whether you are interested in better managing your land, growing your forest-based business, or are an aspiring naturalist, I am here to point you in the right direction.

Below are several ways you can learn from, and get involved with our Forestry and Natural Resources Program.

Stay on Top of News and Events

Learn about our latest news and you can also subscribe to our podcasts!

In the Woods

Each month we will bring you research and science-based information on a new topic related to forests that aims to offer some insight into what we know and are still learning about forest science and management.

Podcast

Tree Health Webinar Series: Why Are My Trees Dying?

As more trees die each year, these 30-minute webinars address current health issues impacting some of our common species, what it means for the trees, and what you can do.

Glenn Ahrens, Sarah Cameron, David C. Shaw, Christine Buhl, Laura Lowrey | Aug 2023 | Collection

My Southern Oregon Woodlands

Access a growing network of expert assistance, information support, and financial resources to help you get what you want out of your forest. From concerns about wildfire, to improving forest health, to managing for timber resources, My Southern Oregon Woodlands can help you reach the goals you have set for your land.

Learn more

Oregon Naturalist

Participate in science-based learning experiences that help you appreciate Oregon's diverse forest ecosystems and make informed decisions regarding forest policy and management. For example, our Master Naturalist Program offers opportunities to learn about the natural history of plants, animals, habitats, geology, culture, as well as the most relevant topics in sustainable natural resource management.

Explore Oregon’s forests with us.

Photo by Lynn Ketchum (Cropped from original)

Find Your People

Our community-based groups, such as the Women Owning Woodlands Network and Master Woodland Manager Program, get together to learn with – and from – other landowners who value Oregon’s forests and communities.

Women Owning Woodlands Network

The Women Owning Woodlands Network (WOWNet) is a diverse, enthusiastic, group of women who are interested in woodland management. WOWNet allows women to come together to learn about forest management, share their forestry and ...

Program

Master Woodland Manager

The Master Woodland Manager (MWM) training is offered by Oregon State University Forestry Extension as a master's level course for landowners who are interested in an intensive forest management training and sharing the knowledge ...

Program

Protect What You Care About

The Fire Program and the Citizen Fire Academy, Ties to the Land succession planning, and forest health offerings are all tailored to help you keep your property safe from wildfire or insect and disease outbreaks, and to build a legacy for future generations.

Fire Program

Program

Important Fire Season Information

Forests across the western United States are stressed from high tree densities, drought, and insect and disease outbreaks. Past management practices along with more human-caused wildfire and changes in weather are causing wildfires to burn hotter, longer, more frequent, and over greater areas. Forestry & Natural Resources Extension aims to offers a comprehensive, consistent, and cohesive approach to a Fire Program for all Oregonians.

Fire Topics

Dig Into Our Educational Resources

Our catalog includes dozens of free publications, videos, webinars, and podcasts, covering a wide variety of topics, such as forest health, forest management planning, and estate and succession planning.

Our Future in Our Hands

Reduce the impact a wildfire might have on you and your community.

Carrie Berger, Kara Baylog, Aaron Groth, Emily Jane Davis, Dusti Linnell, Oralia Mendez | Aug 2023 | Collection

Bees in the woods

Videos and other resources that help you enhance bee and pollinator habitat on your small private forestland

Lauren Grand | Oct 2022 | Collection

Emerald ash borer resources

Learn how to identify the emerald ash borer (EAB) beetle and ash trees, what you can do and ways Oregonians are planning for and preventing the spread of this destructive insect.

Aug 2022 | Collection

Despues del Incendio Forestal

Después del Incendio Forestal: En Los Condados de Jackson y Josephine

Acabó de sufrir una experiencia traumática que cambiará su vida: un incendio forestal llegó a su comunidad. Quizás tenía que evacuarse y regresar. O puede ser que no pueda regresar a la zona de evacuación por unas semanas y a lo mejor no habrá nada al regresar. ¿Cómo se seguirá?

Kara Baylog | Aug 2023 | Publication Peer reviewed (Gray level)