WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 28, 2019) – 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 the release of the WoodsCamp online tool in California. In conjunction with the My Sierra Woods program, 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. 

Recently released research from AFF confirmed that more than half of the highest fire risk land in California is on private and family lands owned by individuals, families, trusts, partnerships and other conservation organizations. Family forest owners are eager to restore their forests to healthy conditions, according to the research, and WoodsCamp provides clear answers to owners’ questions.

"WoodsCamp connects family forest landowners with resources available to help them manage their land in line with their values and goals--from reduced fire risk to improved wildlife habitat, " says Tom Fry, Western Conservation Director at the American Forest Foundation. "When family forest owners in Northern California take action with this technology, they become better forest stewards; they make possible all the benefits Californians enjoy from forests including clean water and carbon storage.” 

WoodsCamp analyzes data like forest cover, soil content, wildlife habitats, and wildfire threats in combination with goals landowners identify, to match with the best programs, services, and even funding opportunities available.  Once the right option is identified, a management path is then confirmed during a walk-through with a local forest professional. WoodsCamp takes the guesswork out of finding the best option for your land.  

The personalized WoodsCamp report is an easy way for private landowners to learn about options available for their forests, and with these tools and the resources being called together by the My Sierra Woods program, landowners can take action to protect their property and help keep communities safe. 

How can landowners access their free report from WoodsCamp online?

1. Go to the website  

2. Find your property on the map

3. Answer a few quick questions about your property goals

4. Receive your free personalized report with opportunities available on your land

5. If eligible, book a free visit with a forest professional to discuss your options and available funding opportunities, provide technical recommendations, and develop a stewardship plan. 

The American Forest Foundation acquired WoodsCamp, a technology startup, in 2018 to reach greater numbers of family forest owners and streamline the process of matching landowners with conservation programs and opportunities. The platform is currently available in Alabama, California, Oregon and Wisconsin. AFF plans to expand coverage to more states this year, to drive greater impact on critical conservation issues such as wildfire, wildlife habitat, climate, water quality, and sustainable wood supplies.

Contact: Ryan Rauzon, ryan@summitstrategygroup.net; (310) 293-0286 

About the American Forest FoundationThe American Forest Foundation (AFF), a forest conservation organization, works on the ground with families, partners and elected officials to promote stewardship and keep our forests healthy and producing clean water and air, wildlife habitat and sustainable wood supplies. AFF’s new platform, WoodsCamp, offers family forest owners an easy way to learn more about their land and get connected to resources to help keep their forests healthy and productive.