Forestry Student Experiences

Amazon trees under pressure: new study reveals how forest giants handle light and heat

Published on May 29, 2025
In a first-of-its-kind study, researchers at Michigan State University have uncovered how Amazon rainforest canopy trees manage the intense sunlight they absorb.
Forestry Student Spotlight – Emilie Hebenstreit

Published on May 28, 2025
Emilie Hebenstreit shares a special story in her forestry journey and how she led a team of foresters to win the 2017 State Forestry Contest for the first time in history.
MSU researcher receives $500K grant to study tree species suited to future Michigan climates

Published on May 15, 2025
Jeremy Johnson, assistant professor in the MSU Department of Forestry, leads the project.
Spartan students showcase EAV sustainability solutions

Published on May 12, 2025
MSU undergraduates presented research and novel consumer-based applications at annual Plastics in Electric and Autonomous Vehicle Conference
Faculty Spotlight – Dave Carter

Published on April 29, 2025
Dave Carter shares his journey with forestry and his advice to future students pursuing a forestry degree.
Pokharel, Kim receive 2025 CANR Early Career Researcher Awards

Published on April 22, 2025
Raju Pokharel, Ph.D., and Jongkyoo Kim, Ph.D., will be honored with CANR Early Career Researcher Awards during the CANR Faculty and Staff Awards on May 8
James receives 2025 CANR Excellence in Research Performance and Support Award

Published on April 22, 2025
Katie James, of the Department of Forestry, will receive the 2025 CANR Excellence in Research Performance and Support Award on May 8
CANR honors departments, units with CAB badges

Published on April 22, 2025
The CANR and Office of Culture, Access and Belonging OCAB will honor the 2025 Culture, Access and Belonging Badge Award recipients at the CANR Faculty and Staff Awards on May 8
CANR honors 2025 Global Scholars in Research

Published on April 22, 2025
The CANR has named Douglas Bessette, Ph.D., Jongkyoo Kim, Ph.D., Raju Pokharel, Ph.D., and Josh Vanderweide, Ph.D., as the 2025 Global Scholars in Research
Forestry Student Spotlight – Riley Watts

Published on April 14, 2025
Riley Watts shares how they chose MSU Forestry to blend their passion for the outdoors into helping the Earth and how they hope to settle into state work after graduating.
The Tremendous Career of a Woman in Forestry

Published on April 7, 2025
MSU Forestry alum, Barbara Heidel BS ’86, is retiring after 36 remarkable years with the U.S. Forest Service.
Faculty Spotlight – David Skole

Published on March 28, 2025
David Skole shares his forestry journey and how he hopes to continue to inspire students to become well-informed and active citizens.
Forestry Student Spotlight – Noah Dressander

Published on March 25, 2025
Noah Dressander shares how studying abroad in Mexico helped him expand his forestry knowledge and see its connection to the world. He plans to pursue a master’s degree after graduation.
Forestry Graduate Student Spotlight - Erin Budzyn

Published on March 14, 2025
Erin Budzyn, PhD Candidate, focuses on the understanding of social acceptance of fire-risk reduction strategies and actions, and human health and wellbeing impacts of forest structural characteristics and species.
Forestry Student Spotlight – Kenna Kline

Published on February 25, 2025
Kenna Kline shares how studying in Argentina and Antarctica broadened her view of global forestry and inspired her to research underrepresented species.
150 Celebrate 2024 Mass Timber Momentum at “Michigan Mass Timber Update: Opening Doors”

Published on December 11, 2024
State Announces new Mass Timber Catalyst Fund; Participants enjoy tours of new mass timber condominiums and mixed-use space at event venue Adelaide Pointe.
Forests are for everyone: improving access to natural resources education 

Published on November 11, 2024
Inclusivity has been a goal of the Department of Forestry at Michigan State University for many years. Access to an education in natural resources and the forestry field should not be limited by geographic location, economic background, or other factors.
The Intersection of Art and Nature: Combining Forestry and Artistic Vision

Published on October 28, 2024
Understanding the unique combination of academic programs for doctoral student Hailey Becker.
MSU researcher receives $800K grant to study interregional reliance, carbon program impacts on US forest product industries

Published on October 17, 2024
A multi-institutional research team led by Raju Pokharel, an assistant professor in the MSU Department of Forestry, will study interstate and interregional reliance of wood and how carbon offset programs impact forest product industries.
MSU Forestry online master’s program producing productive graduates

Published on September 20, 2024
Joshua Harrison found his calling in forestry, MSU provided the skills for a career