Cape Atlantic Conservation District is Advancing Forestry in NJ 06/27/2024
New Jersey maintains a diversity of plant and animal species by ensuring habitat for native species and actively managing invasive species. Atlantic white-cedar stands, which are currently being restored, play a critical role in the state’s biodiversity, benefiting various plant and animal species, including several that are threatened and endangered. Despite forests being the predominant land use in New Jersey, every county is declared “urban.” Development encroaches on forested areas, leading to land conversion, fragmentation, and habitat degradation. To protect forest land and maintain its sustainability, New Jersey manages pests and monitors for others, such as the spongy moth and emerald ash borer.
With over 7,000 private forest landowners in New Jersey participating in the state’s tax abatement program, the Farmland Assessment Act, there is a significant need for certified professionals to support this private forest landowner base and provide technical services, including writing and maintaining forest management plans. The availability of consulting foresters in New Jersey has been on the decline due to retirements and a deficit of new professionals entering the forestry field. This issue is further compounded by an increasing regional and national demand for foresters.
Following a Northeast Mid-Atlantic Partnership for Forests and Water Meeting in Edison, New Jersey last spring, which included forestry staff from New Jersey’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and other in-state partners-discussions highlighted the challenges and opportunities for New Jersey forest landowners and the state as a whole. In response, Cape Atlantic Conservation District agreed to explore leveraging technical assistance funds from the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) and secured additional funding to establish a forestry program to address these needs.
Cape Atlantic has recently hired an experienced forester to mentor a trainee forester. Initial efforts will focus on public outreach and training staff to deliver various forestry services. Staff will also apply to become technical service providers (TSP) in support of NRCS programs. Both foresters are trained in programs accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF) and will utilize various continuing education resources. They will also take advantage of many existing avenues for continuing education while collaborating closely with current consulting foresters and NRCS staff to obtain their necessary certifications to conduct forestry in the state.
Cape Atlantic plans to build a program to provide services to private forest landowners and the surrounding municipalities that need forestry services. The initial focus will be on public outreach and handling service requests. As staff members are trained, they will apply to become technical service providers (TSP) to support NRCS programs. One staff member is already a certified American Tree Farm System (ATFS) inspector, and additional staff will be trained to become ATFS inspectors as well. As staff gain experience and responsibilities, the workflow and requests for services are expected to increase as awareness of Cape Atlantic’s forestry services grows.
Cape Atlantic’s forestry program will provide support to private forest landowners and municipalities, starting with introducing communities, stakeholders, and partners to its services. As capabilities and certifications expand, the program will adapt to local needs and explore funding opportunities for sustainability and growth. This initiative marks a significant advancement for Cape Atlantic and New Jersey, promising solutions to ongoing forestry challenges while advocating for sustainable practices and forest health and demonstrates the crucial role conservation districts play in implementing effective forestry practices and tackling sector challenges.
Tags: Forestry, Forestry Notes, new jersey