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Forest landowners in Franklin, Washington, and Wilson counties now have access to a program designed to strengthen forest management, protect family land, and improve long-term financial outcomes.

As we’re well into 2026, 2025 was a year that clearly demonstrated how regional differences can shape timber markets across North Carolina. Quarterly standing timber price data showed a sharp contrast between Eastern and Western markets, with each region favoring different products.

A rare stand of old-growth forest, with trees approaching 400 years of age, has been identified on a newly protected 1,513-acre mountain tract acquired by the Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina. The discovery was made during a biological survey of land surrounding Mike Mountain, now being added to the conservancy’s Pinnacle Mountains Preserve in Rutherford County.

Restoration work is set to begin soon at the Poplar Boat Launch, an important access point to the Nolichucky River located within the Pisgah National Forest. The project is a partnership between the U.S. Forest Service and the National Forest Foundation, aimed at rebuilding the launch after it sustained significant damage during Hurricane Helene.

Good news for Western North Carolina residents who rely on firewood to heat their homes: permit-free firewood collection for personal use has been extended through December 2026 on the Pisgah National Forest.

The North Carolina Forest Service is sounding the alarm after reporting a sharp increase in wildfire activity across the state. In December 2025 alone, North Carolina experienced 724 wildfires on state and private lands, a 32% increase compared to December 2024

Good forestry doesn’t just grow healthy forests—it protects the water that runs through them. That commitment to balance and stewardship is exactly why North Carolina Forest Service Warren County staff have been named recipients of the 2025 Moreland Gueth Water Quality Award, one of the Forest Service’s highest honors related to water resource protection.

The N.C Forest Service has announced its Summer 2026 paid internship opportunities. Learn about available forestry internships, pay rates, locations, and how to apply before the 1/30 deadline.

Southern Veneer will close its Moncure, NC, plant in December, cutting 130 jobs amid a construction slowdown affecting Carolina forestry.

Conservation efforts are gaining momentum in western North Carolina as Conserving Carolina has secured 49 acres on the east side of Lake Lure, setting the stage for future sections of the planned Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail.

The Town of Mills River has officially launched its Land Preservation Program, a new initiative designed to protect farmland & more.