goal 3

Manage Forests to Achieve the State's Economic and Environmental Goals

Healthy forests provide a range of benefits, boosting climate resilience, increasing carbon sequestration, protecting water supply, improving air quality, cooling communities, providing habitat for wildlife, and supporting local economies. Accordingly, California’s forested landscapes are a key component of the state’s strategy to combat climate change, promote biodiversity, and support rural economic development. Governor Newsom’s 2020 Executive Order N-82-20 directs state agencies and task force members to accelerate solutions to combat climate change, protect biodiversity and build resilience through nature-based solutions.

Biodiversity & Climate Goals

Protecting and managing natural and working lands, including forests, is an essential strategy in meeting the state’s greenhouse gas reduction goals and is now official policy.


Wood Utilization

Working to attract private sector investments into a vibrant wood products market that advances the state’s sustainable forest management strategy.


Workforce Development

Addressing unmet needs in our forestry workforce, this group is collaborating to make training and vocational education programs widely available and accessible.


Sustainable & Accessible Recreation

Collaborating to craft a joint strategy and implementation plan for sustainable outdoor recreation and enhanced access for California.


Urban & Community Forestry

Expanding urban forests in California and setting urban tree canopy goals and green infrastructure in key areas.


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Staff

Patrick Wright,
– Director

Forest Schafer,
– Deputy Director

Kristen Merrill,
– Program Manager

Nic Enstice,
– Science Coordinator

Sky Biblin,
– Communications Coordinator

Sean Couch,
– Analyst

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Upcoming meetings

June 6, 2025
Sacramento

September 4-5, 2025
Inland Empire Regional

December 12, 2025
Sacramento

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