Newsroom
The American Forest Foundation works on a national scale with policymakers, partners and companies to develop solutions that empower family forest owners to actively care for their forests and provide essential benefits.
Explore the latest news, announcements and statements about our work in the areas of carbon storage, wildfire mitigation, wildlife habitat, clean water, sustainable wood supplies and support for rural communities.
Media Contact
Kristen Voorhees
Director of Communications
American Forest Foundation
media@forestfoundation.org
Newsroom posts
July 3, 2025
AFF CEO Statement on Passage of Reconciliation Bill
Federal support of family forest producers, through tax provisions and conservation programs, provides some of the tools they need to strengthen local economies while improving the health and productivity of our nation’s woodlands.
May 28, 2025
New Report Details Innovative Approach to Permanence for Natural Climate Solutions
The American Forest Foundation released today “A Trust for Permanence: Enabling a New Generation of Permanent Nature-Based Credits in the Voluntary Carbon Market,” a new concept paper that details an innovative approach to ensuring the quality and integrity of credits produced through natural climate solutions (NCS).
May 20, 2025
In Historic First, Program Enrolls 1,000 Family Landowners in New Market Opportunity
The American Forest Foundation announced today that their Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP) has reached a critical milestone, enrolling 1,000 landowners, who now have access to income through the voluntary carbon market. This is the first and only forest carbon program to enroll these many small-acreage landowners in the nation.
May 15, 2025
Statement: Committees Take First Step in Supporting Forest Landowners in Reconciliation
Today, the US House Agriculture Committee and Ways and Means Committees took the first steps in supporting the more than 21 million American family forest owners by protecting and growing voluntary conservation programs and maintaining important tax provisions.
May 6, 2025
New Report: Forest Carbon Projects Model the Path Forward for High-Integrity Voluntary Carbon Market
Revitalizing Carbon Markets from the Roots Up, predicts that prioritizing and investing in high-integrity projects could enable forests to sequester up to 300 million additional tonnes of carbon by 2030, unlocking even more supply for a demand-heavy market, while also delivering economic opportunities and conservation benefits. This becomes even more significant in a landscape where corporations are increasingly seeking solutions to mitigate climate-related risks in their operations and reach their own net zero goals.
March 27, 2025
Statement: Disaster Reforestation Act Will Help Family Forest Owners Recover
Currently, family forest owners cannot recoup the value of their timber lost in natural disasters, making it that much harder for these owners to reinvest in the recovery of their forest. The Disaster Reforestation Act aims to fix this by amending the tax code to allow forest owners to deduct the market value of their timber destroyed by natural disasters.
February 27, 2025
Statement: AFF Applauds Appointment of Tom Schultz as Chief of United States Forest Service
AFF congratulates Tom Schultz on his appointment as the 21st Chief of the United States Forest Service. Tom brings a wealth of public and private land management experience to this role. We look forward to working with Tom to unlock markets and champion economic opportunities for rural families and communities while conserving our working lands.
February 13, 2025
Statement: AFF Applauds Confirmation of Brooke Rollins as Secretary of Agriculture
Scaling market-based solutions that invest in forest health and productivity can help these rural communities thrive and tackle the growing threats these lands and communities are facing. We’re excited to work with Secretary Rollins to advance both traditional and emerging markets that improve the health and productivity of our nation’s woodlands.
January 22, 2025
Statement: AFF Applauds Introduction of Disaster Reforestation Act
The Disaster Reforestation Act would provide family forest owners with an important financial tool they need to recover from a natural disaster: the ability to deduct their losses.
January 14, 2025
New Due Diligence Platform Aims to Drive Greater Transparency in Carbon Market
As part of its first Carbon Auction, the American Forest Foundation (AFF) announced today the launch of the auction’s Data Room, a new platform for prospective carbon credit buyers to access all due diligence materials on its Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP). The Data Room offers companies a more streamlined and transparent way to evaluate and buy carbon credits, providing a centralized resource and nine weeks for due diligence ahead of the auction on March 12-19.
January 7, 2025
AFF Congratulates GCSA Advisory Council Appointees
AFF’s EVP of Climate Funding Nathan Truitt to Represent NGO Sector on GCSA Advisory Council.
December 23, 2024
Statement: AFF Applauds Passage of Comprehensive Disaster Relief Package
The American Forest Foundation applauds the Congress for passing and the Biden administration for signing a comprehensive disaster relief package that will keep the government open until March, extend the Farm Bill for a year, and provide monumental funding that supports family forest owners. These funds will play a critical role in restoring landscapes, rebuilding livelihoods, and strengthening rural communities devastated by natural disasters like Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
December 11, 2024
AFF Awarded $5 Million to Support Family Forest Owners
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service has awarded the organization $5 million of Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funds through its Forest Landowner Support (FLS) program.
November 19, 2024
Family Forest Carbon Program Receives BBBe Rating from Carbon Ratings Agency
This week, the American Forest Foundation (AFF), a nonprofit organization that empowers family forest owners to create meaningful conservation impact, announced its receival of a ‘BBBe’ rating of its improved forest management (IFM) practices by carbon ratings agency BeZero – the highest of the agency’s public ratings of this project type in the United States.
November 12, 2024
New White Paper Sets Bar for Quality in Forest Carbon Projects
This week, the American Forest Foundation, a nonprofit organization that empowers family forest owners to create meaningful conservation impact, released its latest white paper, “Catalyzing Forest Carbon Project Quality: Addressing Issues of Integrity in Improved Forest Management Carbon Projects." The paper discusses the common challenges that IFM projects face in the voluntary carbon market and details four key elements the Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP) focuses on to ensure high quality: additionality, permanence, leakage, and social integrity.
October 22, 2024
In Historic First, Forest Carbon Project Enrolls 100,000 Acres
This week, the American Forest Foundation, a nonprofit organization that empowers family forest owners to create meaningful conservation impact, announced its enrollment of 100,000 acres in the Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP), the first of its kind to achieve this milestone.
October 15, 2024
American Forest Foundation to Launch First U.S. Nature-Based Carbon Credit Auction in Early 2025
The American Forest Foundation Carbon Auction — the first of its kind for a U.S. nature-based carbon project — will offer buyers a transparent and streamlined way to secure high-quality carbon credits while supporting rural communities and family forest owners.
August 14, 2024
Statement: USDA’s Advisory Council to Support Market Transparency and Credibility
"USDA’s creation of this council is a major step in creating the enabling conditions needed to build and scale a market that works for people and the planet."
July 30, 2024
Statement: Through SBTi or Not, Corporations Must Maximize Climate Action Now
We were hoping SBTi would signal to corporations, family forest owners, and the countless others ready to activate the power of forests and nature to generate carbon credits to reduce emissions in this decade. Unfortunately, SBTi’s findings today did not provide the clear guidance we need.
July 15, 2024
Family Forest Carbon Program Expands Availability in the Southeast
The American Forest Foundation announced today the expansion of the Family Forest Carbon Program into Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia.
June 20, 2024
Open Letter to SBTi: Carbon Credit Use for Scope 3 Emissions Will Catalyze Climate Impact
“The facts are clear: in order to avoid the impacts of climate change, we need to invest in nature-based solutions now.”
June 11, 2024
Statement: Senate Republican Farm Bill Framework Supports Rural America
We know that Rural Americans – especially rural landowners – play a critical role in achieving our country’s climate and conservation goals.
May 28, 2024
Statement: White House’s Voluntary Carbon Market Principles Support Rural America
The new guidance from the Biden-Harris Administration is a welcome acknowledgment of the value of climate-smart forestry and the importance of scaling the voluntary carbon market.
May 24, 2024
Statement: House’s Farm Bill Movement Represents Great Forward Progress for Rural Landowners
AFF encourages members from both chambers, on both sides of the aisle, to work together to strengthen and pass a bipartisan Farm Bill that supports rural forest owners.
May 21, 2024
Statement: House’s Farm Bill Signals Commitment to Family Forest Owners
The passage of the Farm Bill is critical to our country’s efforts to protect the health and wellbeing of our America’s forests, rural landowners and rural communities, and the planet.
May 1, 2024
Statement: Stabenow Farm Bill Framework Promising for Rural Family Landowners
“Rural family landowners are on the front lines protecting our forests and the clean air and water, climate mitigation, wildlife, and wood products that come from these lands that every American benefits from."
April 17, 2024
Tree Planting Initiative Brings Financial Opportunities to Georgia Landowners
“Field to Forest offers landowners a low-maintenance way to earn income while keeping their land active and healthy.”
April 10, 2024
SBTi's Latest Guidelines Encourage Companies to Utilize Voluntary Carbon Credits for Climate Action
“We celebrate SBTi’s recognition of the critical role voluntary carbon credits plays in driving global corporate climate action."
March 26, 2024
Family Forest Carbon Program Expands into the South
The American Forest Foundation announced today the expansion of the Family Forest Carbon Program into Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
March 15, 2024
AFF Awarded IRA Funds to Empower Landowners with Market-Based Solutions
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded AFF $20 million of Inflation Reduction Act funds through its Forest Landowner Support program.
March 5, 2024
Forest Carbon Program Puts Conservation Power into Ohio Landowners’ Hands
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) announced today the expansion of the Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP), a partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), into Ohio.
March 4, 2024
New SBTi Guidance Promising but Falls Short in Incentivizing Enough Corporate Climate Action
SBTI is spot-on in its unambiguous recognition of the vital role the VCM plays in companies investing in nature... our planet depends on investing in nature now.”
January 26, 2024
New England Climate-Smart Commodities Program Now Enrolling Landowners in Four States
More family woodland owners in New England now have an opportunity to apply for financial support to care for their forested property and increase carbon storage.
January 23, 2024
New Paper Clears the Way for Action by Articulating Principles of Natural Climate Solutions
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has released a scientific paper outlining five key principles crucial for the global implementation of natural climate solutions (NCS).
December 19, 2023
Georgia Landowner Named the 2023 Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year
The American Forest Foundation and the American Tree Farm System are excited to announce the 2023 National Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year, Heather Brasell of Berrien County, Georgia.
December 12, 2023
Arbor Day Foundation Accelerates AFF’s Afforestation Efforts in Georgia
Today the American Forest Foundation announced the receipt of $465,000 in philanthropic funds from the Arbor Day Foundation.
December 5, 2023
Conservation and Policy Groups Celebrate Senate Introduction of Rural Forest Markets Act
Today Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Mike Braun (R-IN), and Bob Casey (D-PA) announced the introduction of the Rural Forest Markets Act (RFMA) in the U.S. Senate.
November 22, 2023
Family Forest Carbon Program’s Carbon Accounting Methodology Submitted to ICVCM
This week carbon credit standard-setting group Verra announced its submission of their flagship carbon crediting program to be assessed against the Core Carbon Principles (CCPs)
November 1, 2023
Family Forest Carbon Program Expands Throughout Northeast
AFF announced today the expansion of the Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP) throughout the Northeast region to include New York, New Hampshire, and Maine.
September 13, 2023
New Report: Innovative Finance Tools Key to Activating Nature Based Climate Solutions
Our latest report outlines the underutilized yet critical role of family forests in climate change mitigation and calls for investment in the voluntary carbon market.
August 29, 2023
Rural Forest Markets Act Puts Power in Rural America’s Hands
The legislation opens revenue to bolster rural economies and increase the health of U.S. forests
August 22, 2023
IRA Funding Paves Way for Underserved Landowners to Conserve American Forests
On Tuesday, the USDA's Forest Service announced a funding opportunity for $150 million through the Landscape Scale Restoration (LSR) Program.
May 17, 2023
Farm Bill Must Include Solutions for Family Forest Owners
Forests in the Farm Bill (FIFB), a coalition of more than 70 forestry and conservation organizations, released today a set of recommendations focused on improving the forest-related sections of the upcoming Farm Bill.
May 9, 2023
American Forest Foundation Adds New Voices and Perspectives to Board of Trustees
The American Forest Foundation announces the appointment of three new members to its board of trustees who will offer the vital insight, lived experiences and cultural perspectives necessary for AFF to transform carbon markets to be accessible for every family forest owner.
April 12, 2023
Family Forest Carbon Program Announces Expansion into Midwest United States
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) today announced the Family Forest Carbon Program, a partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), has expanded enrollment to landowners in select counties in Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
March 30, 2023
AFF Applauds Core Carbon Principles that Raise the Standard for the Entire Carbon Market
The Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (IC-VCM) released its Core Carbon Principles and Program-level Assessment Framework, setting ambitious standards for the entire voluntary carbon market to ensure quality, integrity, and genuine climate impact. “There is no viable path to avoid global climate catastrophe without leveraging natural climate solutions – and the best way to do that right now is through the voluntary carbon market."
March 21, 2023
AFF CEO: IPCC Report Showcases Need to Activate All Climate Solutions Now
“The IPCC’s report makes it alarmingly clear that we must activate all tools, including natural climate solutions, to fight climate change. In order to limit the risks within 1.5-degrees of global warming, governments, companies, and organizations must include forest-based solutions and leverage carbon markets that invest in the health and productivity of America’s forests."
March 13, 2023
Late Arkansan Recognized for Leadership and Contributions to Forestry Community
The American Forest Foundation’s American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) has announced the posthumous recognition of Jennifer Lambert Johnson of Little Rock, Arkansas as the 2023 National Leadership Award recipient.
March 10, 2023
The American Tree Farm System Honors 2023 Regional Inspectors & Awards National Inspector of the Year
The American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) is pleased to announce the 2023 Regional Inspectors and National Inspector of the Year (IOTY).
March 10, 2023
EVENT: Investing in America’s Forests Through the Voluntary Carbon Market
Please join us on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 for Investing in America's Forests: Expanding Rural Access to the Voluntary Carbon Market, a virtual panel discussion that will explore pathways to increase investment in rural American communities through the voluntary carbon market.
February 9, 2023
American Forest Foundation’s New Strategic Direction Answers Calls for Higher Quality Carbon Credits
The American Forest Foundation announces its new strategic direction that will focus on unlocking the power of family forests as a climate solution while helping thousands of rural landowners care for their land and improve forest health.
January 10, 2023
Maryland Department of Environment Approves $2.5 Million for Natural Climate Solutions Through Landmark Loan Guarantee
The American Forest Foundation announces a first-of-its-kind $2.5 million loan guarantee through the Maryland Department of Environment’s Water Quality State Revolving Fund to finance natural climate solutions in Maryland’s family forests.
December 23, 2022
FY23 Omnibus Bill Removes Barriers to Climate Action for Rural Landowners
The American Forest Foundation responds to today's passing of the 2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill that included critical funding for family forests and two key climate provisions.
October 27, 2022
New Approach to Forest Carbon Accounting Aims to Enhance Accuracy & Transparency
A first-of-its-kind carbon accounting methodology for Improved Forest Management (IFM), designed to provide more measurable proof of climate impact and to solve access challenges for small forest landowners, has officially been approved for use in the United States and around the world.
October 4, 2022
The American Forest Foundation Expands Access to Carbon Markets for Underserved Landowners
The American Forest Foundation announces that Bank of America has provided a $230,000 grant to help support AFF’s Family Forest Carbon Program. The program is uniquely designed to provide small-acreage and underserved landowners access to carbon markets.
September 14, 2022
American Forest Foundation Awarded $35 Million through USDA Grant to Unlock Climate-Smart Market Opportunities for Family Forest Owners
The American Forest Foundation received $35 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities to expand climate-smart forest products markets for family forest owners.
August 16, 2022
American Forest Foundation Applauds Lawmakers for Historic Investment in American Communities & the Planet
The American Forest Foundation responds to the signing of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 into law.
July 28, 2022
American Forest Foundation Applauds Congress for Recognizing the Power of Family Forests in Addressing Climate Change
The American Forest Foundation responds to the introduction of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 in the U.S. Senate.
July 19, 2022
First-of-Its-Kind $10M Green Bond Issued to Finance Family Forest Carbon Program to Fight Climate Change
The American Forest Foundation announces a $10 million Series 2022A taxable bond to finance the Family Forest Carbon Program — it is the first green bond designed specifically to support the generation of nature-based carbon credits.
July 13, 2022
Family Forest Carbon Program Opens to Small Woodland Owners Across Vermont, Parts of Massachusetts and New York
The Family Forest Carbon Program announces it is open for enrollment to rural small woodlot owners with as little as 30 acres in Vermont, western Massachusetts and eastern New York.
February 15, 2022
New CEO of National Conservation Organization Builds Powerful Executive Team
The American Forest Foundation today announced several promotions and new hires on its growing leadership team.
February 8, 2022
American Forest Foundation Applauds USDA on Investment in Climate Smart Agriculture and Forestry
AFF applauds the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s $1 billion investment through the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities, which can help to fund programs that will produce real, measurable and verifiable climate benefits.
January 18, 2022
AFF Applauds the Forest Service for Launching Comprehensive Strategy
The American Forest Foundation today applauded the U.S. Forest Service’s (USFS) Wildfire Crisis Strategy.
January 10, 2022
Accomplished Executive Rita Hite Takes the Helm as First Woman President & Chief Executive Officer of American Forest Foundation
The American Forest Foundation today announced Rita Hite as its president and chief executive officer. Hite is the first woman in the organization’s more than 40-year history to hold its top position.
November 16, 2021
American Forest Foundation Applauds President Biden, Congress for Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act With Inclusion of Family Forest Owner Provisions
AFF applauds the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, passed by Congress and signed into law today by President Biden, which will support private and family landowners in creating more resilient forests for the future.
November 16, 2021
White Oak Initiative Releases Critical Action Plan to Reverse Decline of America’s White Oak Forests
A new report urges industries, policymakers, conservation organizations and landowners to work together to step up efforts to support white oak sustainability.
October 20, 2021
Family Forest Carbon Program Opens Enrollment Across Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Maryland
The American Forest Foundation and the Nature Conservancy announce expansion plans for their Family Forest Carbon Program, which empowers America’s rural family forest owners to improve forest health while addressing climate change.
October 5, 2021
Family Forest Owners Empowered to Address Climate Change with New Partnership between REI Co-op, the American Forest Foundation and The Nature Conservancy
REI commits to 6-year contract to purchase verified carbon credits from the Family Forest Carbon Program, an innovative and impact-focused forest carbon project.
September 27, 2021
AFF Applauds Introduction of the Disaster Reforestation Act in the Senate
The following statement can be attributed to Tom Martin, President and CEO of the American Forest Foundation in regards to the introduction of the Disaster Reforestation Act in the Senate (S. 2768).
September 9, 2021
Global Spirits Company Donates $500,000 to Support White Oak Initiative & America’s White Oak Forests
The White Oak Initiative, a diverse coalition of partners committed to the long-term sustainability of America’s white oak forests, today announced that it will receive a $500,000 donation from Beam Suntory’s Yamazaki brand.
August 31, 2021
American Forest Foundation Statement on the Passage of California ACR 33
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a national conservation organization that works to deliver conservation impact through the empowerment of family forest owners, releases the following statement in response to the California State Senate’s passage of Assembly Concurrent Resolution 33.
August 4, 2021
American Forest Foundation Announces Retirement of Forward-Thinking President & CEO Tom Martin
The American Forest Foundation today announced the retirement of President and CEO Tom Martin after 12 years of service, effective December 31, 2021.
July 13, 2021
American Forest Foundation Statement on Passage of California Assembly Concurrent Resolution 33
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a national conservation organization that works to deliver conservation impact through the empowerment of family forest owners, releases the following statement in response to the California State Assembly’s passage of Assembly Concurrent Resolution 33.
July 6, 2021
AFF Applauds Introduction of the Disaster Reforestation Act in the House of Representatives
The American Forest Foundation, a national conservation organization that works to deliver conservation impact through the empowerment of family forest owners, releases the following statement in response to the introduction of the Disaster Reforestation Act.
June 16, 2021
American Forest Foundation Statement on California Budget Passage
The American Forest Foundation, a national conservation organization that works to deliver conservation impact through the empowerment of family forest owners, releases the following statement in response to the California State Legislature passing the state’s 2021-2022 budget.
June 10, 2021
American Forest Foundation Applauds the Introduction of the Rural Forests Markets Act
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a national conservation organization, that works to deliver meaningful conservation impact through the empowerment of family forest owners, today applauds Representatives Pingree (ME-D) and Stefanik (NY-R) on the introduction of the Rural Forests Markets Act.
April 20, 2021
AFF to Empower Family Forest Owners in Georgia to Improve Wildlife Habitat
Washington, D.C. (April 20, 2021) – The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a national organization that works to deliver conservation impact through the empowerment of family forest owners, today announced it has received a grant totaling $350,000 from the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to help family forest owners preserve and improve forested habitat for at-risk wildlife in Georgia.
April 13, 2021
American Forest Foundation Applauds the Re-Introduction of the Rural Forests Markets Act
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a national conservation organization, that works to deliver meaningful impact through the empowerment of family forest owners, today applauds Senators Stabenow and Braun on the re-introduction of the Rural Forests Markets Act.
April 12, 2021
American Forest Foundation Statement on the Biden Administration's 2021-2022 Budget
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a national conservation organization, that works to deliver conservation impact through the empowerment of family forest owners, releases the following statement in response to the Biden Administration 2021-2022 budget.
March 12, 2021
American Forest Foundation Statement on California Assembly Concurrent Resolution 33
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a national organization that delivers meaningful conservation impacts by empowering family forest owners to take action on their land, applauds California State Assemblymember Laura Friedman for her introduction of Assembly Concurrent Resolution 33 (ACR 33).
March 9, 2021
Mississippi Forester Awarded for Leadership and Contributions to Forestry Community
The American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) is pleased to award Garron Hicks of Tupelo, Mississippi with its 2021 National Leadership Award. The award recognizes the efforts of extraordinary volunteers for their efforts to catalyze on-the-ground conservation impact, provide educational opportunities to landowners, and support work towards his or her state committee’s forest goals.
March 9, 2021
American Tree Farm System Announces 2021 National Outstanding Inspector of the Year
The American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) is pleased to recognize Mike Kay, of Frederick, Maryland as the 2021 National Outstanding Inspector of the Year. Kay was selected from among more than 2,500 inspectors nationwide for his exceptional on-the-ground work with family forest owners and commitment to the American Tree Farm System.
February 23, 2021
American Forest Foundation Applauds the Appointment of Tom Vilsack to Secretary of Agriculture
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a national conservation organization, that works to deliver meaningful conservation impact through the empowerment of family forest owners, today responds to the appointment of Tom Vilsack to Secretary of Agriculture under the Biden Administration.
January 27, 2021
American Forest Foundation Applauds Administration on Prioritizing Forests for Climate
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a national conservation organization that works to deliver meaningful conservation impact through the empowerment of family forest owners, responds to President Biden’s Executive Order on Climate.
August 27, 2020
American Forest Foundation Pledges 84 Million Trees to 1T.org
Today, the American Forest Foundation (AFF), a national conservation organization that focuses on empowering family and private forest owners to protect and improve their forests, joined 26 other conservation leaders in committing to the 1t.org U.S. chapter as part of the global trillion trees effort.
August 24, 2020
Prairie View A&M University Joins SFLR Network
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), administrator of the Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Project (SFLR), is pleased to welcome Prairie View A&M University as the SFLR’s Network’s newest member. SFLR is a network that helps African American landowners turn their family forests into sustainable economic assets.
August 20, 2020
New White Paper Details Opportunities to Empowering Family Forest Owners to Address Climate Change
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a conservation organization that focuses on empowering family and private forest owners to protect and improve their forests, has released a new white paper outlining the case for working with family forests to sequester and store more carbon.
August 5, 2020
American Forest Foundation Statement on the Rural Forests Markets Act
The Rural Forests Markets Act is designed to open carbon and other markets to small landowners that are currently unavailable to them. By allowing the USDA to provide guarantees for upfront capital investment the financial burdens landowners face to enter carbon markets are reduced, allowing them to access revenue from carbon markets to finance stewardship activities that have a carbon sequestration benefit, among other co-benefits.
June 30, 2020
American Forest Foundation Statement on the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis
In response to the release of the House of Representatives Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, the following can be contributed to Tom Martin, President and CEO of the American Forest Foundation (AFF), a non-profit conservation organization that specializes in helping family-owned forests be productive for a wide array of benefits such as wildlife habitat, clean water, sustainable wood supplies and carbon storage.
June 18, 2020
American Forest Foundation Welcomes WestRock Foundation as a Family Forest Carbon Program Partner
Today, the American Forest Foundation (AFF) announced WestRock, a leading provider of differentiated paper and packaging solutions, through its WestRock Foundation, has committed to supporting family forest owners addressing climate change by investing in the development of the Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP), a new program created by AFF and The Nature Conservancy (TNC).
June 2, 2020
American Tree Farm System Opens Second 60-day Public Comment Period on Standards of Sustainability
The American Tree Farm System (ATFS), a program of the American Forest Foundation (AFF), today launched a second 60-day public comment period related to its Standards of Sustainability for Forest Certification.
March 26, 2020
AFF Welcomes 3M as a Family Forest Carbon Program Partner
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) is proud to announce that 3M has committed to supporting the newly-created Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP) to enhance carbon sequestration on family-owned forestland across the U.S.
March 20, 2020
American Tree Farm System Honors Bob Obedzinski as 2020 National Outstanding Inspector of the Year
The American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) is pleased to recognize Bob Obedzinski of Washington as the 2020 National Outstanding Inspector of the Year. Obedzinski was selected from among more than 2,500 inspectors nationwide for his exceptional on-the-ground work with family forest owners and commitment to the American Tree Farm System.
March 20, 2020
Wyoming Couple Awarded for Leadership and Contributions to Forestry Community
The American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) are pleased to recognize Ed and Barb Mignery with the 2020 National Leadership Award. The award recognizes the efforts of extraordinary volunteers for their leadership in motivating other volunteers, educating landowners and accomplishing his or her state committee’s forest conservation goals.
March 4, 2020
AFF Awarded Multi-Year Support from Dutch Biomass Certification Foundation
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) today announced it has received $1.5 million in funding from the Dutch Biomass Certification Foundation (DBC) to create with a comprehensive sustainability assurance program to help DBC expand certification among small forest owners in North America.
February 24, 2020
AFF Welcomes International Paper as a Family Forest Carbon Program Partner
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) announced today that International Paper, one of the world's leading producers of fiber-based packaging, pulp and paper, has joined AFF and its partner, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), in supporting the newly-created Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP) to enhance carbon sequestration on family-owned forestland across the U.S.
February 13, 2020
American Forest Foundation Statement on the Introduction of the Trillion Trees Act
The American Forest Foundation, on behalf of our nation’s family forest owners, appreciates Representative Westerman’s leadership on the Trillion Trees Act, legislation designed to help the U.S. contribute to the global Trillion Trees Initiative.
February 3, 2020
American Forest Foundation Welcomes Domtar as a Family Forest Carbon Program Partner
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) announced today that the Domtar Corporation has joined AFF and its partner, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), in supporting the newly-created Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP) to enhance carbon sequestration in family owned forest land across the U.S.
January 22, 2020
President & CEO of Conservation Think Tank to Serve as New American Forest Foundation Board Chair
Today, the American Forest Foundation (AFF) announced Kathryn Fernholz, President & CEO of Dovetail Partners, Inc., will serve as the Chair of the AFF Board of Trustees in 2020 and 2021. Fernholz is the first woman to serve in the Chair position on AFF’s Board.
January 8, 2020
Statement from AFF President & CEO Tom Martin Regarding Rural Prosperity Report
Today, American Forest Foundation (AFF) President and CEO Tom Martin released the following statement in regards to the release of the Rural Prosperity report at the American Farm Bureau Convention in Nashville.
January 2, 2020
American Tree Farm System Launches 60-day Public Comment Period on Standards of Sustainability
The American Tree Farm System® (ATFS), a program of the American Forest Foundation (AFF), today launched 60-day public comment period on AFF’s current Standards of Sustainability for Forest Certification (Standards) and announces the 13 members of a new Independent Standards Review Panel (ISRP).
December 5, 2019
Family in Washington State Awarded National Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year
Today, the American Tree Farm System awarded the New family of Bellingham, Washington the National Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year honor from among more than 70,000 certified Tree Farmers nationwide, thanks to their efforts to restore a portion of a critical watershed to help a threatened species in their state.
November 8, 2019
AFF Welcomes Vulcan Materials Company as Family Forest Carbon Program Partner
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) announced today that Vulcan Materials Company (VMC), the nation’s largest producer of construction aggregates, has joined AFF and its partner, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), in supporting the newly-created Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP) to enhance carbon sequestration in family-owned forest land across the U.S.
August 22, 2019
American Forest Foundation Announces Intent to Revise ATFS Standards of Sustainability
Today, the American Forest Foundation (AFF) announced it itends to initiate the revision process for its Standards of Sustainability (Standards) for Forest Certification for the American Tree Farm System(ATFS) program. ATFS, a program of AFF, is internationally endorsed by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), which connects the extensive network of small family-owned forests to markets around the world.
July 24, 2019
Forest Owners in Alabama, Maryland, Missouri and Washington Named Regional Outstanding Tree Farmers
Today, the American Tree Farm System (ATFS) announced four Tree Farmer families from among more than 70,000 certified Tree Farmers as this year’s Regional Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year. They are Stan and Suzanne Wood of Bremen, Alabama; Bill and Tina Buckel of Bittinger, Maryland; Mike Trial of Columbia, Missouri; and David and Dar New of Bellingham, Washington.
June 4, 2019
AFF Thanks Congress for Passage of a Disaster Aid Package
AFF applauds Congress on the passage of the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act (H.R. 2157), a package to help forest owners, farmers and other Americans recover from last year’s hurricanes, wildfires and natural disasters.
May 28, 2019
AFF Applauds the Introduction of the Forest Recovery Act in the Senate
AFF applauds Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi, Roger Wicker of Mississippi, Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Marco Rubio of Florida for the introduction and support of the Forestry Recovery Act (S. 1687).
May 28, 2019
American Forest Foundation Brings WoodsCamp to California, Accelerating Wildfire Risk Reduction
To help more California landowners access the funding and technical assistance to reduce wildfire risk and make their forestland more resilient, the American Forest Foundation (AFF) today announced release of the WoodsCamp online tool in California. The online tool gives family forest owners critically important data, resources, and access to expert advice that can improve land health and reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire.
May 20, 2019
AFF Statement on Washington’s Shared Stewardship Agreement with Forest Service
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) applauds the recent signing of a Shared Stewardship Memorandum of Understanding, which formalizes a partnership with Washington Department of Natural Resources, Washington Fish and Wildlife and the United States Forest Service to support shared goals and existing plans to address forest health, which is a cornerstone of reducing wildfires and providing wildlife habitat and clean water.
March 26, 2019
Young Female Forester Awarded for Leadership to Forestry Community
The American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) is pleased to recognize Brittany VanderWall of Michigan with the 2019 National Leadership Award. The award recognizes the efforts of extraordinary volunteers for their leadership in motivating other volunteers, educating landowners and accomplishing his or her state committee’s forest conservation goals.
March 26, 2019
American Tree Farm System Honors Bill Chaney as 2019 National Outstanding Inspector of the Year
The American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) is pleased to recognize Bill Chaney of Arkansas as the 2019 National Outstanding Inspector of the Year. Chaney was selected from among more than 2,500 inspectors nationwide for his exceptional on-the-ground work with family forest owners and commitment to the American Tree Farm System.
March 6, 2019
AFF Statement on California’s Community Wildfire Prevention & Mitigation Report
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) a leading conservation organization that helps America’s family forest owners care for their land, today applauded the leadership of California and CAL FIRE in their efforts to protect vulnerable communities and homes by making our forests more resilient.
December 12, 2018
AFF Supports Farm Bill Conference Report that Recognizes Family Forest Owner Needs
The American Forest Foundation (AFF) a leading conservation organization that helps America’s family forest owners care for their land, today expressed strong support for the 2018 Farm Bill conference report, which includes new tools and support for stewardship of family forest lands.
December 5, 2018
American Forest Foundation and The Forest Trust Partner to Advance Sustainable Supply Chains
This partnership will enable brands to more seamlessly engage in on-the-ground work with private landowners to transform their supply chains and drive positive outcomes in the places they source wood. The work will also support markets that encourage family forest owners to take conservation action in their woods.
October 30, 2018
Ohio Tree Farmers Named National Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year
Tree Farmers celebrate the impact of quality forest management and share their experiences to educate others in the community. This year’s honorees are Randy and Koral Clum of east central Ohio.
October 11, 2018
AFF Applauds Appointment of Vicki Christiansen as US Forest Service Chief
The following statement can be attributed to Tom Martin, President and CEO of the American Forest Foundation (AFF), in response to the announcement that Vicki Christiansen will serve as the 19th Chief of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Forest Service.
October 9, 2018
American Forest Foundation Receives Dutch Sustainability Recognition for Family Forest Owners
ATFS Certification first forest management standard approved for Dutch biomass sustainability verification.
August 29, 2018
AFF Applauds Appointment of James Hubbard to Undersecretary
Statement from AFF President and CEO Tom Martin Regarding the Senate confirmation of James Hubbard to U.S. Department of Agriculture Undersecretary of Natural Resources and Environment (USDA).
August 16, 2018
AFF Supports the USFS's Shared Stewardship Approach to Reduce Wildfire Risk
Statement from AFF President and CEO Tom Martin Regarding the U.S. Forest Service Release of the Toward Shared Stewardship Across Landscapes report.
July 11, 2018
Forest Owners in FL, ME, OH and WA Awarded Regional Outstanding Tree Farmers
American Tree Farm System provides top honors to exceptional Tree Farmers.
June 14, 2018
Forests in the Farm Bill Coalition Commends Senate Agriculture Committee
The Forests in the Farm Bill Coalition commends the Senate Agriculture Committee for passage of the Farm Bill out of committee that includes recommendations on family forest policy.
June 13, 2018
Domtar & AFF Announce Partnership for Forest Conservation and Bird Habitat
Today, the American Forest Foundation (AFF) and Domtar together announced a new partnership to help family and private woodland owners in northwest Pennsylvania and southwest New York improve habitat for at-risk bird and wildlife species.
May 3, 2018
AFF Applauds New Legislation That Will Help Open Markets for Wood
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), a leading conservation organization that helps America’s family forest owners care for their land, today applauded Senators Shaheen (D-NH) and Collins (R-ME) for introducing legislation designed to spur markets for low value wood, thus helping landowners afford the good stewardship practices needed to care for their forests.
April 18, 2018
AFF Commends House Ag For Addressing Family Forest Issues in Farm Bill
The American Forest Foundation (AFF), the leading conservation non-profit that specializes in family forests, commended the House Agriculture Committee for including many provisions in the House Farm Bill, passed by Committee today, that will support America’s 21 million family forest owners.
April 17, 2018
USFS, Esri, Mars, McDonald's, Staples & Others Partner With AFF, GreenBlue on Sustainability Tool
Today, the American Forest Foundation (AFF) and GreenBlue announced the collaboration of a diverse set of partners that will support the development of a new forest sustainability tool that complements forest certification. The digital mapping tool, called Forests in Focus, will assess the sustainability of family-owned forests at the landscape-level, or across a wood supply region, in the United States.
April 16, 2018
AFF Statement Regarding USDA Undersecretary Nominee James Hubbard
The following statement can be attributed to Tom Martin, President and CEO of the American Forest Foundation (AFF), in regards to the nomination of James Hubbard to U.S. Department of Agriculture Undersecretary of Natural Resources and Environment (USDA).
March 23, 2018
AFF Statement on Wildfire Funding Fix Inclusion Within Congressional FY2018 Spending Bill
The following statement can be attributed to Tom Martin, President and CEO of the American Forest Foundation, in regards to the inclusion of a policy fix within the FY2018 Appropriations Bill to the wildfire funding challenges within the U.S. Forest Service and Department of Interior budgets.
March 1, 2018
AFF and Enviva Announce Collaboration to Test Streamlined ATFS Streamlined Certification
Today, the American Forest Foundation (AFF) and Enviva Holdings, LP (Enviva) announced a collaboration to pilot a new approach to certify family and small forest holdings through American Tree Farm System (ATFS) forest certification. This pilot is intended to reduce barriers to landowner participation in forest certification while ensuring rigorous sustainability standards are met, and long-term engagement of family woodland owners that leads to improved forest stewardship.
February 12, 2018
AFF Supports the Introduction of the Forestry Recovery Act of 2018
Today, the American Forest Foundation (AFF) applauded Representatives Buddy Carter (R-GA), Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Ralph Abraham (R-LA), Austin Scott (R-GA), Bob Goodlatte (R-VA), Steven Palazzo (R-MS) and Sanford Bishop (D-GA) on introducing new legislation that would provide family and private forest owners a better chance to recover after a natural disaster by being able to deduct their timber losses through the tax code.
February 7, 2018
AFF Statement Regarding Introduction of Empowering State Forestry to Improve Forest Health Act
The American Forest Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters offered their support for Empowering State Forestry to Improve Forest Health Act of 2018, a bill introduced by Representatives Peter Welch (D-VT) and Glenn Thompson (R-PA). This bipartisan legislation would direct funding toward the highest priority forest conservation projects, resulting in measurable improvements to private and family-owned forests and nearby National Forest System lands.
January 25, 2018
AFF Statement Regarding Release of USDA 2018 Farm Bill & Legislative Principles
Following is the statement that can be attributed to Tom Martin, president and CEO of the American Forest Foundation, in regards to the release of the 2018 Farm Bill & Legislative Principles by U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Perdue.