Extension Forestry Team

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

picture of professor with mountain in background

Thomas Worthley

Extension Forester

Tom works with woodland owners, land managers, and forestry professionals across Connecticut. As an Extension Professor at UConn, he:

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

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) 409-9050

Key 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.

Contact Information

UConn Dept. Natural Resources & the Environment, Storrs, CT
Email: amanda.bunce@uconn.edu