On Monday, January 15, 2024, the American Forest Foundation and the forest community lost a valued member of our family in Michael Joseph Reed.

Michael served as AFF’s vice president of policy and advocacy for nearly two years and was not only a member of our staff but also a friend, mentor and colleague to so many of us in the forest sector. He made an indubitable, lasting impact on forest policy during his incredible career on Capitol Hill and while at AFF, notably through his leadership in the Forest in the Farm Bill Coalition among many other initiatives.

His care for the people that make up the forest sector was reflected in his tireless advocacy for American forests and the communities that depend on them.

Michael’s advice and counsel to so many of us were like gold, always offered with humility and sincerity which is rare in people who have achieved such great accomplishments. We were so blessed to work with Michael at AFF, even for a short time.

Our hearts go out to his dear wife, Diane, and their family, and we express our heartfelt gratitude to them for sharing a part of Michael’s life and journey with us.