College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Forestry

When I was a student, I used to say that you could solve any problem by planting more trees.  While that might be oversimplified, whether it be to counter the impacts of a changing climate, ensure better health outcomes for communities or provide sustainable materials for innovative building design, I bet we can agree that the world needs more foresters. 

After attending the SAF spring meeting and interacting with students from MSU Forestry Club, I feel confident knowing students today are growing to meet these challenges.  Forestry students are bright, eager, ready to gain experience and to learn!  Through support from MSU Forestry Alumni Association, they’ve been connected with mentors, provided networking opportunities and conference attendance and gifted support for graduating Seniors. 

As professionals, it’s easy to see the benefit from the student vantage. Based on my experience at Michigan SAF, interacting with these budding foresters has benefits for those of us that’ve been here a while, too!  They are creative, fun and bring new perspectives (and vocabulary)!  Never stop learning – that’s who we are as Spartans!   

With that, I hope you are able to join us – students and alumni – for tailgate this fall! (Oct 11) If you can’t make it to campus, join us in supporting MSU Forestry students via donating funds or sharing your time! I would like to challenge our Forestry graduates to think about our role in fostering this next generation of foresters.  Giving time, funding or expertise to Forestry Alumni Association helps us continue to connect and support Forestry students.  This includes support for Conclave, the annual tailgate, Shindig, conferences and networking.  Our communities, economies and natural areas will rely on our students to meet the challenges of tomorrow. 

Hope to see ya outside and Go Green!

Heidi Frei

MSU FAA President

BS ’02; MS ‘07

Michigan DNR,

Parks and Recreation Division

State Park Forest Health Specialist