College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Forestry

The scope and relevance of the forestry profession has never been more diverse than it is today; in addition to traditional aims of forest management and timber production, forestry has a contemporary portfolio that includes wildlife, water quality, climate change mitigation, recreation, human health and wellbeing, urban greening, and green infrastructure. Yet the demographic composition of the forestry profession has not expanded in a similar way to reflect our diverse society. As of 2016, women made up only 11%, and non-Caucasians only 2.4 % of the membership of the Society of American Foresters. Just as diverse forests are more resilient and productive, research has shown that diverse teams of people are more creative, effective and productive than more homogeneous teams. The Society of American Foresters has recognized that increasing demographic diversity is essential for the success and sustainability of our profession¹, and MSU’s Department of Forestry is rising to this challenge with coordinated efforts to expand participation of women and traditionally underrepresented minorities in our field.

David Rothstein, a Professor in the Department of Forestry, reflects that there is one critical point to always remember: the idea that forestry and natural resources issues affect everyone, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation or gender identity. Similarly, affinity for trees, forests and nature is not restricted to any particular demographic group. We cannot fulfill our mission of serving society if we don’t have more representative demographics. We need the best and brightest from all walks of life participating in our profession.

A key challenge in efforts to diversify the field of forestry is the cultural isolation that minority or female students may experience entering predominantly white male programs. To actively combat this, the MSU Forestry program has developed an approach focused on creating an inclusive culture within the department.  This work began with a cadre of faculty members committed to working on this issue and overcoming the barrier of cultural isolation and has expanded over time to include staff, graduate students and undergraduate students. Justin Kunkle, an Academic Specialist and the Forestry Undergraduate Advisor, is leading these efforts through the Creating Inclusive Excellence Grant program, which has fostered dialogue within the Forestry department among undergraduate and graduate students, has led to the development of an undergrad peer mentoring program, a multicultural leadership retreat, and periodic student group gatherings to identify, address and overcome some of the assumptions and stereotypes within the field. “Awareness and commitment is the real key, it’s something we need to constantly keep working towards” says Kunkle.

At the core of MSU Forestry’s values lie the ideas of acceptance, inclusivity, and safety in this community. The goal of the department is to provide a space where all voices are heard, and everyone may feel safe expressing themselves and knowing that their input is valued. Together we will build a safe community of collaboration and educational support as we move forward together, stronger.