Yankee Division
About us:
This website was put together by the outreach committee of the Yankee Division of the New England Society of American Foresters.
The mission of the Society of American Foresters (SAF) is to advance sustainable management of forest resources through science, education, and technology; to enhance the competency of its members; to establish professional excellence; and to use our knowledge, skills, and conservation ethic to ensure the continued health, integrity, and use of forests to benefit society in perpetuity.
The Yankee Division represents SAF members from Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
Click here to learn more about the Yankee region
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Foresters in southern New England are Stewards of the Woods.
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Thoughtful management of our forests...​
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Provides diverse habitat for native wildlife and vegetation,
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Provides clean air and water,
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Provides recreational opportunities for mental and physical health,
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Creates a resilient forest landscape in the face of climate change
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Provides raw materials for a local and sustainable green economy
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Goals of this Website:
Forestry professionals from across southern New England have created this website clearinghouse of credible, science-based information to help practicing foresters and other natural resource professionals, as well as policy makers and the general public better understand the multitude of forest benefits and how to sustainably achieve them.
We seek to expand awareness of:
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the many resources and benefits our forests provide and how professional foresters work to achieve them,
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the need for science-based approaches to forest protection and management, especially in this era of climate change
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the role our forests play as part of the carbon solution, how they are impacted by climate change, and what can be done to keep them healthy and sustainable.
As foresters, we want to share our passion for the woods and open the door to build relationships with anyone who would like to learn more.
Please explore this site and give us your thoughts, questions, and ideas. Our contact information is at the bottom of the page, or you can reach us on social media. We look forward to hearing from you!
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Role of Forest Management & Climate Change
Position Statement of the Yankee Division of SAF:
“Climate change, coupled with New England’s land use history and increasing human population has heightened the need to responsibly manage southern New England’s forests for multiple uses including the sequestration and storage of atmospheric carbon.”
“Active forest management, grounded in science, is essential to maintaining and promoting resiliency and ecosystem services.”
The Yankee Division of the Society of American Foresters have articulated their position on the importance of forest management for protecting our ecosystems and mitigating climate change. This document contains a wealth of scientific support for this position. It is intended to guide forest policy and decision-making as we navigate our changing environment.
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Click here to read the SAF Position Statement
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White oak "wolf" tree (photo:Wikle)
White pines at sunrise
(photo:Wikle)
Ramps growing on forest floor
(photo:Wikle)
Oak seedling
(photo:Milne)