Logic Model Overview:

The forest products industry contributes over $1.5 billion to the state’s economy.  It represents the third largest industry in the manufacturing sector and has been the foundation for much of the rural economy.  Recently, the forest industry has experienced consolidation (mill closings) due to escalating log, insurance and energy costs.  The Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development has appointed a task force to examine issues affecting the industry and to develop strategies for addressing them.  In addition, the State Forester and other industry leaders have reached out to other manufacturing sectors to identify common challenges

Situation:

From Forestry & Wildlife:
University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension's Forestry and Wildlife Program has been caring for New Hampshire's Forests since 1925 through a joint program with the NH State forester's office. Since 1985, UNH Cooperative Extension has had a commitment to the NH Department of Fish and Game to lead efforts in wildlife habitat protection and enhancement in all par6ts of the state. Twelve county-based Extension Educators in Forest Resources and three statewide Extension Specialists in forestry, forest industry and wildlife provide research-based educational programs and assistance to an array of audiences. This effective statewide and local delivery system provides ready access to constituents.

UNH Cooperative Extension motivates private landowners to actively manage their land for long-term stewardship of natural resources. Extension programs in forestry and wildlife, agriculture, and water resources bring a comprehensive approach to solving problems and protecting resources through an extensive network of partners within the natural resources community. Long-term memoranda with the NH Division of Forests and Lands and the NH Fish and Game recognize Extension's lead role in educational programming. The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, Audubon Society of New Hampshire, NH timberland Owners Association, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, U.S. Forest Service, NH Office of State Planning, Conservation Districts, NH Department of Environmental Services, regional planning commissions and county governments are all active partners.

Forest Resource Extension Educators, three statewide Extension Specialists, a Land and Water Conservation Educator and Community Forestry Volunteer coordinator provide technical expertise and information about managing forest and community resources to people in each county across the state. Target audiences include non-industrial private forest owners (NIPF), municipal and other forest landowners, natural resource professionals, communities, volunteers, NH forest-based industries and the public.

Over 188 components of the current New Hampshire Forest Resources Plan, mandated under RSA 227-I:8, are directed to Cooperative Extension for action. This level of responsibility is second only to that of the Division of Forests and Lands.

Stakeholder Input

From Forestry & Wildlife:
A ten year NH Forest Resource Plan was developed by representatives from throughout the NH natural resources community. This included public agencies, business and industry, private conservation organizations, communities, academics, land owners, and natural resource professionals, public officials, and the general public. UNHCE was second only to the NH Division of Forest and Lands with designated responsibilities under the NH Forest Resources Plan. The foundation of the Forestry and Wildlife Program plan of work is in the NH Forest Resource Plan. County Extension Advisory Councils, external funders (NH Division of Forest and lands, NH Fish & Game Department, US Forest Service, Society for the Protection of NH Forests, NH Timberland Owners Association, NH Audubon, Nature Conservancy and others) public officials and clientele provided input into the plan of work.

Assumptions

From Forestry & Wildlife:
• Funding continues at the federal, state, and local levels so staffing levels permit implementation of this plan
• Staffing in the Forestry and Wildlife Program remains sufficient
• Funding is available to complete existing and new components of this plan

External Factors

From Forestry & Wildlife:
• Landowner assistance programs may come and go, adding or subtracting educational options and outcomes
• Economic factors affect landowners' short term objectives, markets, and opportunities

Evaluation Overview

NH's forest industries continue to evolve from many smaller manufacturers to fewer large and more efficient companies.  The investment in new technology contiues to drive the sawmill industry.  Small familiy businesses define the logging industry.  The needs are diverse.  Information, often on an individual business, is what is needed.

 

   Outputs

      Implement components of the NH Forest Resources Plan    (Show details)

      Conduct, sponsor, co-sponsor or provide educational expertise for workshops, seminars or educational events.    (Show details)

      Develop statewide and regional coordinated/standardized programs accomplished by Forestry and Wildlife staff working iindividually or in teams.    (Show details)

      Maintain contact with landowners through newsletters, web page, and special mailings.    (Show details)

      Reach clientele through training programs (Coverts - Tree Stewards)    (Show details)

      Work with Project Learning Tree and 4-H Youth Development to educate teachers and youth leaders on forest resource issues.    (Show details)

      Grants - Development & Maintenance    (Show details)

      

 Tornado Damage Assessment

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   Inputs:

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   Outputs

      Professional development    (Show details)

   Inputs:

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