If you can believe it, the American Tree Farm System just marked its 78th anniversary this summer. ATFS with its long history continues to be a strong, well-loved program across the U.S. It has built and sustained relationships with more than 73,000 woodland owners who are conducting good sustainable forestry on the ground, all to protect and improve clean water, wildlife habitat, wood supplies and recreation.  

None of this would be possible without the more than 4,000 passionate and informed volunteers and leaders who support the program. While they report more than 57,000 volunteer hours to helping run ATFS, I believe it must be more, as in their daily lives and local communities, these folks are the champions of and voices for active forest management. Thank you for your time, energy and dedication.

As our challenges to caring for forested land – such as wildfire – continue to grow in intensity and scope, this commitment to ATFS and active stewardship is paramount to our long-term success in helping all landowners – especially those new to land ownership, in keeping their forests healthy. I look forward to seeing what the next year brings, and how ATFS can continue to grow and expand its impact for all forests, and the resources they provide all Americans.