Connecticut's forests provide immense social, environmental, and economic benefits. The UConn Extension Forestry Program is dedicated to ensuring the health and vitality of this crucial resource through education and outreach. We empower natural resource professionals, public officials, volunteers, and private woodland owners to effectively manage Connecticut's diverse landscapes—from private woodlands and state forests to street trees and municipal watersheds.
Connecticut is unique: it's one of the nation's most densely populated states, yet over 60% of its land is forested. Much of this is urban forest, with Connecticut boasting the highest urban tree cover at nearly 62%. As urban land is projected to exceed 65% by 2060, our program addresses the distinct environmental and governance challenges of managing these vital forest resources within our highly urbanized state.
Working statewide, the UConn Extension Forestry Program fosters shared stewardship of our forests. We provide vital information and education to woodland owners, communities, and Connecticut Forest Practitioners. Our partnerships include the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Forestry Division (including their Urban and Community Forestry Program) and numerous non-profit organizations committed to forest stewardship and community engagement.

What We Do
We help people share in the care of Connecticut's important forests through:
- Training: We teach foresters, landowners, youth, and community members how to care for forests in a sustainable way.
- Disaster Preparedness: We help communities get ready for environmental changes and natural disasters, so they can better protect their shared forest areas.
- Expert Support: We offer guidance on managing forests, controlling problem plants, and restoring natural habitats to protect our shared green spaces.
- Community Connections: We bring people together through workshops, youth activities, and local partnerships, encouraging everyone to enjoy and protect our forests.
Program Initiatives
Our initiatives include:
- Educating Woodland Owners: We offer key educational programs like the Coverts Project and the Master Woodland Manager program to help private forest owners.
- Building Stronger Communities: Initiatives such as the Stormwise Initiative and the Extension Disaster Education Network help communities get ready for environmental changes and natural disasters affecting their forests.
- Engaging Youth: Working with ConnecticutView, the UConn Natural Resources Conservation Academy and UConn 4-H, we create exciting programs that use cutting-edge technology and sustainable forestry principles to inspire youth and foster an early appreciation for forests.
- Working with Communities on Forests: Our Urban and Community Forestry team, a joint effort between the UConn College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources and the UConn Hartford Research on Resilient Cities, Racism and Equity, develops successful ways for local communities to actively help manage and care for their nearby forests.
- Supporting Professionals: We provide important training for CT-Certified Foresters, Arborists, and town officials to improve their skills in forest care, natural resources management, and community engagement. We also contribute to important groups like the CT Urban Forestry Council, the Oak Resiliency Project, and the Northeast Forests and Climate Adaptation Network.
Latest Blog Posts by Our Foresters
- Steal From Your Friends! January 6, 2025
- Maple Sugaring at UConn January 6, 2021
- Position on Forests, Carbon and Climate Change: Yankee SAF December 1, 2020
- The Slow Storm January 1, 2019