Issues and Advocacy

New York Society of American Foresters (NYSAF) is actively engaged in advocating for sound public policy at the federal, state and community levels on issues that affect the future health and productivity of forests and the benefits that forests provide. NYSAF members regularly provide sound advice, guidance and science-based information to legislators and policy makers at all levels of government.

NYSAF's Policy Committee meets regularly to consider and discuss issues pertinent to our profession. 

As a state chapter, our positions reflect a common perspective shared by our members and focus on timely, critical issues affecting the forests of New York. Broader perspectives on forests and the national policy arena are addressed and coordinated by staff at the national SAF office in Bethesda, Maryland. NYSAF members regularly participate in policy forums and town meetings and welcome the opportunity to share their knowledge and experience in public settings.

If you have questions about these positions, or would like to propose a new position statement, please contact the Chair of the NYSAF Legislation and Policy Committee, or any Executive Committee member.

NYSAF also remains active in policy discussions affecting forestry in New York by participating in and supporting the following activities:

  • Council of Forest Resource Organizations (CFRO)​
  • Forestry Awareness Day (held every spring in Albany, NY)

Policy related questions may be referred to NYSAF Policy Chair Shorna Broussard Allred.​​