UConn Extension Forestry is led by two Extension Foresters who serve communities across Connecticut, one focused on woodlands and one focused on urban and community forests. We work closely with key collaborators who support research, forest management, and program delivery. All members of our team are affiliated with UConn’s Department of Natural Resources and the Environment.
Extension Faculty

Thomas Worthley
Extension Forester
Tom works with woodland owners, land managers, and forestry professionals across Connecticut. As an Extension Professor at UConn, he:
- Leads UConn Extension Forestry in the Master Woodland Manager program.
- Teaches Dendrology and Forest Management.
- Chairs the UConn Forest Committee and mentors the UConn Forest Crew.
His work bridges applied research and innovative forest management to keep our woodlands healthy and productive.
Contact Information
UConn Middlesex County Extension Center, Haddam, CT Email: thomas.worthley@uconn.edu Phone: (860) 345-4511
Dr. Mayra Rodríguez González
Extension Urban Forester
Mayra leads UConn’s Urban and Community Forestry Extension efforts across Connecticut (read her latest Urban Forestry Impact Report). Her work is centered on:
- Using participatory research and geospatial analysis to support climate-resilient urban forests.
- Working with municipalities and local groups to advance tree canopy planning.
- Developing inclusive approaches to urban ecosystem management.
By bridging the gap between practitioners and community groups, she helps ensure Connecticut’s urban centers are prepared for a changing climate.
Contact Information
UConn Hartford County Extension Center, Farmington, CT Email: mayra.rodriguez_gonzalez@uconn.edu Phone: (860) 409-9050Key Collaborators

Dr. Robert Fahey
UConn Forest Director & Associate Professor
Bob leads the research and management initiatives at the UConn Forest. His expertise centers on:
- Studying the complex interactions within forest ecosystems.
- Applying ecological knowledge to help both rural and urban forests adapt to change.
- Supporting the integration of applied research into sustainable forest management.
His work ensures that the UConn Forest serves as a living laboratory for resilient and healthy forest ecosystems.
Contact Information
UConn Forest, Storrs, CT Email: robert.fahey@uconn.edu
Amanda Bunce
PhD Candidate
Amanda supports Extension Forestry programming and various field operations. Her work focuses on:
- Maintaining active research sites, focused on storm-resilient forests.
- Assisting with practical forest management and project implementation.
- Supporting communication efforts and mentoring student involvement.
Her role is vital in bridging the gap between forestry research and practitioner training.