Seventy-five years ago, the American Tree Farm System (ATFS) established the first ever certified tree farm in North America on the Clemons Tree Farm near the City of Montesano in Grays Harbor County. From that beginning, the ATFS has grown to over 80,000 family owned tree farms nationwide, and over 900 in Washington State alone. A coalition of forestry partners has come together to organize a celebration of this significant milestone.
June 18, 2016, in Montesano, WA, a free public event will highlight the integrated nature of what it is to be a tree farmer, starting with the compelling story of a multi-generational tree farm and ending with the story of how the seedlings we plant will ultimately be used in tall wood buildings that will grace our cities in the future. In between those bookends from growth to ultimate use, elected officials and agency leaders will talk about the significance of small forest land owners as a critical part of our rural economy, environment, and social fabric.
The ATFS National Office will offer a wider perspective on the importance of looking forward while building on where we have come from over the past 75 years. We close wit a ceremony honoring tree farmers who epitomize what it is to be stewards of the land and then head out for some interesting forester-led tours of Lake Sylvia State Park.
Events start at 9 am, and close out the day with tours from 1:30 to 4 pm. Additional information and registration materials can be found at www.wafarmforestry.com, or by calling Kelly Zandell at 360-388-7074 or emailing info@wafarmforestry.com.