U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities releases 2024 Annual Report, showcasing innovation across forests, markets and communities.
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities (the Endowment) released its 2024 Annual Report. It highlights a year of expanded reach with $29.1 million awarded across 109 projects in 30 states and Washington, D.C., through innovative programs that strengthen the links between healthy forests, resilient communities and sustainable markets.
The report details the Endowment’s sharpened focus on transformative initiatives, including the launch of an impact investing program, advancements in forest carbon transparency and streamlined market access for domestic wood fibers.
“2024 was a pivotal year where we not only supported critical projects but also invested in scalable, sustainable solutions,” said Pete Madden, president and CEO of the Endowment. “By magnifying the connections between working forests, strong markets and vibrant communities, we are helping to drive systemic change across the forestry sector.”
Key highlights from the report include:
Impact Investing Initiative: The first three mission-driven investments supported rural housing development with the Northern Forest Center, expanded solid timber production through WholeTrees Structures and funded sustainable fiber-based packaging with Tanbark Molded Fiber Products, Inc.
Forest Carbon Platform: The Endowment invested $5.28 million to advance a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)-supported project with the goal of centralizing high-integrity carbon data and promoting transparency in forest-related carbon markets.
U.S. National Forest Regional Risk Assessment: Through collaboration with the USDA Forest Service and the Sustainable Biomass Program, the Endowment is streamlining market access for wood fiber sourced from national forests, creating new economic opportunities for rural communities and protecting them from disturbances such as wildfire.
Restoration Fuels Proof of Concept: Over the past six years, the Restoration Fuels project successfully demonstrated the viability of torrefied fuel, generated carbon removal credits from forest restoration treatments in U.S. national forests and supplied biochar for pilot projects across a range of applications.
The full 2024 Annual Report is available at https://www.usendowment.org/2024-annual-report/.
About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
Photo credit: Nicholas A. Tonelli
U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities receives $298,900 grant from Susquehanna River Basin Commission to support mine land reforestation in Pennsylvania.
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities (the Endowment) has been awarded a $298,900 grant from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) to support the reforestation of 123.5 acres of reclaimed mine land on private property in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania.
The project is one of 17 selected through SRBC’s 2025 Consumptive Use Mitigation Grant Program, which awarded more than $6.1 million to initiatives aimed at improving water availability, water quality, and drought resilience across the basin.
“This grant is more than a reforestation investment—it’s a vote of confidence in the power of forests and the essential role they play in supporting local ecologies and economies,” said Alicia Cramer, chief operating officer at the Endowment. “By restoring these lands, we’re not only improving watershed resilience, but we’re also investing in long-term solutions that benefit both people and the planet.”
To develop and execute the Clearfield County project, the Endowment is partnering with Bosland Growth, a reforestation carbon developer working across central Appalachia to restore legacy mine lands by transforming them into healthy, productive forests.
“Our mine land reforestation program, of which the Clearfield County project is a key part, will serve as a model for how philanthropy and private capital—particularly carbon markets—can work in tandem to drive large-scale land restoration across Appalachia,” said Todd Appel, President of Bosland Growth.
For more information about the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities and its initiatives, please visit www.usendowment.org.
About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
About the Susquehanna River Basin Commission
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission is a federal/interstate government agency responsible for protecting and wisely managing the water resources within the 27,500 square-mile Susquehanna River Basin without regard to political boundaries. The Susquehanna rises and flows through New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland into the Chesapeake Bay. For more information on the Commission, visit srbc.gov.
Media Contact:
Aleta Rogers
U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities
aleta@usendowment.org
(864) 233-7646
Photo credit: Mac Stone
National forests practice responsible forest management, legally source wood and show minimal risk in sustainable biomass sourcing.
The first-ever Regional Risk Assessment (RRA) for National Forest System lands under the Sustainable Biomass Program (SBP) has been completed and approved for use by biomass producers, providing a comprehensive framework for sustainable biomass sourcing across all forests administered by the USDA Forest Service (USFS) in the contiguous U.S.
SBP-endorsed RRAs are crucial for identifying and mitigating risks associated with the sustainable sourcing of feedstock for biomass and woodchip production, opening significant opportunities in markets with strict sustainability requirements, such as Europe and Asia. By expanding access to these markets, this interim risk assessment provides a unique opportunity that balances conservation goals with economic and renewable energy development.
Typically, RRAs analyze specific geographic regions, provinces or states. This RRA is unique in that it took the innovative approach of considering the vast and unique network of National Forests in the United States as one region, providing a targeted and specific review.
“Sourcing biomass under the SBP requires documentation to demonstrate sustainability, and this risk assessment of U.S. National Forests delivers the most detailed, science-backed framework to date,” said Alicia Cramer, chief operating officer at the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities. “This assessment will expand market opportunities for sustainably sourced biomass while supporting fire resilience, conservation efforts and local economies.”
“Access to biomass markets for National Forest timber sales and stewardship projects support the Forest Service goals to increase the pace and scale of active forest management,” says Steve Lohr, natural resource director with the USFS. “This assessment will be critical to support rural economies that rely on timber from National Forests.”
With the completion of this assessment, the Endowment will move forward with the commitment to advance the benefits of sustainable forestry, support rural communities and promote responsible biomass use across the United States.
About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
Photo credit: Matt Krumenauer
Strengthening Wood Products Manufacturing: US Endowment Partners with US Forest Service
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is proud to partner with the U.S. Forest Service to support the backbone of sustainable forest management—wood products manufacturers. Together, through targeted funding and technical assistance, we’re investing in the health of our forests and the prosperity of the rural communities that depend on them.
This month, Endowment staff joined colleagues from the U.S. Forest Service to visit several facilities benefitting from the Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance funding, a component of the Wood Innovations Program. One notable stop was Shasta Green, a family-owned logging and sawmill operation in Burney, California.
With support from the program, Shasta Green has been able to upgrade sawmill equipment and modernize kiln controls. These improvements are increasing efficiency, streamlining operations, and enhancing product quality—while helping to retain jobs and reinforce the region’s forest management capacity.
Wood products facilities like Shasta Green are more than just manufacturing centers—they are essential infrastructure for wildfire risk reduction, forest health, and economic vitality. By creating market outlets for forest byproducts, these operations help offset land management costs and power local economies.
To further strengthen this critical sector, the Endowment and the Forest Service are also offering technical assistance through the Wood Manufacturing Facility Assistance Program. This initiative is designed to help existing manufacturers improve operations, remain competitive, and continue contributing to forest stewardship and community well-being.
Interested in learning more? Contact Matt Krumenauer at matt@usendowment.org for details.
About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
Photo credit: Mac Stone
How Blockchain Technology and Forests Are Powering the Future of Green Construction
In an innovative partnership, the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities joined forces with Clemson University, Norfolk Southern, the Longleaf Alliance, and Chainparency to bring traceable, sustainable wood products to the forefront of green construction.
What sets this project apart? It’s the first mass timber construction project to use blockchain technology to track the supply chain—from harvest to installation. Every step of the process is documented to ensure complete transparency and accountability. It’s a breakthrough that could redefine how we think about trust, sustainability, and innovation in the forest sector.
This initiative reflects the Endowment’s commitment to strengthening forest markets, promoting active management, and leading the way on tech-forward solutions that benefit rural communities and the environment alike.
Read the complete article here.
About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
For more information contact:
Aleta Rogers, aleta@usendowment.org
Photo credit: Mac Stone
Beyond Planting: Why Forest Management Matters
Planting trees sounds like an easy environmental win—but without proper forest management, it’s not enough. In Tree Frog News, U.S. Endowment COO Alicia Cramer highlights why thinning, responsible harvesting, and market-driven solutions are essential to forest sustainability.
As pulp and paper mills close, the economic incentive for forest owners to maintain healthy forests declines, putting ecosystems and communities at risk. Meanwhile, global initiatives pledge to plant billions of trees, but without proper management, their impact is limited.
At the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities, we know that sustainable forestry is more than just planting—it’s long-term stewardship.
Read the complete article here.
About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
For more information contact:
Aleta Rogers, aleta@usendowment.org
South Carolina’s forests are at a crossroads. Despite having more forest acreage than at any point in the last century, the state’s timber industry faces declining markets, threatening the economic stability of rural communities and the long-term sustainability of its working forests.
In an op-ed for The Post and Courier, U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities CEO Pete Madden explores how innovative solutions like biomass energy can revitalize struggling forest economies, provide sustainable energy alternatives, and ensure that private landowners have the incentive to maintain healthy forests for future generations.
Read the complete article here.
About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
For more information contact:
Aleta Rogers, aleta@usendowment.org
A Win for American Working Forests: Red Oak and National Security
The United States Endowment for Forestry and Communities is proud to celebrate a significant milestone for American working forests.
The FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), signed into law in late December, includes a provision encouraging the U.S. Department of Defense to rapidly transition from Southeast Asian apitong wood to domestically sourced red oak as the preferred material for military trailer decking.
This marks a meaningful step toward sustainability, national security, and supporting local economies tied to forestry.
“This development is a trifecta win for our nation’s working forests, their caretakers, and the environment,” said Pete Madden, president and CEO of the Endowment. “Our domestic hardwood industry has long set the standard for sustainability and security, and it stands ready to meet this vital need for the U.S. military.”
For decades, apitong, a Southeast Asian hardwood, has been the material of choice for military trailer flooring. However, its use has come with significant environmental and operational risks. Unregulated harvesting has contributed to deforestation and ecosystem harm, while reliance on a global supply chain creates vulnerabilities for military readiness. Shifting to domestically sourced red oak ensures a reliable, sustainable supply chain free from geopolitical risks.
Red oak, abundant across the U.S., is not only durable and well-suited for military applications but is also receptive to treatments that enhance its resistance to pests and decay, extending its lifespan. Moreover, the transition to red oak supports rural American jobs and protects forests by ensuring that significantly more red oak is grown than harvested—helping maintain healthy, thriving forests.
The Endowment views this as a pivotal moment that reinforces the value of domestic hardwoods in strengthening America’s economy and environment while supporting national defense. It highlights the importance of working forests and sustainable practices in ensuring resources for future generations
About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
For more information contact:
Aleta Rogers, aleta@usendowment.org
Up to $6.5 Million Available with March 11, 2025, Proposal Deadline
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities (Endowment) has officially released a request for proposal (RFP) for the second round of its Impact Investing Program, with up to $6.5 million in funding available.
The Impact Investing Program aims to drive measurable social and environmental impact alongside financial returns by supporting sustainable forestry practices, economic resilience in rural, forest-reliant communities and innovation within forest-based markets.
More information on the program is available here: www.usendowment.org/impact-investing.
An informational webinar will be held on Wednesday, January 15 at 12 p.m. PST for interested parties to learn more about the Impact Investing program and the RFP process.
Key Dates:
Informational Webinar: Wednesday, January 15 at 12 p.m. PST
Initial “Pre-Screen” Submittal Deadline: Wednesday, February 5 by 5 p.m. PST
Final Submission Deadline: Thursday, March 13 by 5 p.m. PST
Decision Notification: Late April
The program focuses on three primary areas:
- FORESTS: Support working forests and the use of sustainable forest management practices for the health and retention of U.S. forests.
- COMMUNITIES: Work with trusted partners within rural forest-reliant communities to build economic prosperity and resilience.
- MARKETS: Support forest industry processes and products, both traditional (e.g., paper mills, sawmills) and emerging (e.g., biochar, carbon).
The first round of the Endowment’s Impact Investing Program resulted in $3.5 million invested in three companies contributing to sustainable forestry and forest products. Round two seeks to deploy up to $6.5 million in 2025 through impact investments in companies, funds or projects that advance systemic, transformative and sustainable benefits for the health and vitality of our nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
Gordian Knot Strategies, a consulting firm specializing in strategic climate solutions, is supporting the Endowment in scaling the Impact Investing Program’s reach and effectiveness. The RFP can be viewed here: gordianknotstrategies.com/impactinvestingprogram.
About Gordian Knot Strategies:
Gordian Knot Strategies (GKS) is a leading consulting firm specializing in strategic climate solutions. We provide advisory and project management services to a global clientele interested in climate finance, impact investing, carbon asset development, and go-to-market strategies. To learn more about Gordian Knot Strategies, please visit our website at gordianknotstrategies.com.
About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
For more information contact:
Aleta Rogers, aleta@usendowment.org
Dear Valued Partners and Grantees,
As we wrap up 2024, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the ongoing support, collaboration and trust that you have shown the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities. This year has been a remarkable one, filled with new milestones and initiatives that further our mission to support working forests and forest-reliant communities across the country.
A Year of Growth and Impact
2024 marked a major milestone with the launch of the Endowment’s Impact Investing Program. The first round of this initiative resulted in $3.5 million invested in three companies that are contributing to sustainable forestry and forest products. Building on this success, we are excited to announce that round two of the program will seek to deploy up to $6.5 million in 2025. These investments will target companies, funds and projects that create systemic, transformative and sustainable benefits for the health and vitality of our nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities. This continued focus on mission-related investments reflects our commitment to both safeguarding our capital and driving meaningful, long-term change in the forestry sector.
We also celebrate an exciting partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service. Together with our partners, including the Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Network (SFLR), Khuba International and mano-Y-ola, LLC, we received a $20 million award aimed at providing underserved forest landowners with equitable access to emerging markets. This will foster landscape-scale impacts and advance our commitment to ensuring that all communities benefit from the opportunities that working forests offer.
Leadership and Partnerships
At the same time, we continue to strengthen the leadership that guides our organization. We are excited to welcome William Crawford and Deborah Spalding to our board of directors. Their experience and dedication will be invaluable as we work together to chart new paths for our mission. I also want to take a moment to thank outgoing board members Mark Reed and Cris Stainbrook for their outstanding service. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the Endowment’s success, and we wish them well in their future endeavors.
Looking Ahead
As we look toward 2025 and beyond, we remain focused on our long-term mission to create a more sustainable future for forests and communities alike. With innovative investments, new leadership and a growing network of committed partners, we are well-positioned to take on the challenges ahead and continue making a lasting, positive impact.
On behalf of the entire team at the Endowment, I thank you for your ongoing partnership. Together, we will continue to advance the health of our forests and the well-being of the communities that rely on them.
Wishing you a joyful and prosperous holiday season.
Warm regards,
Pete Madden
President and CEO
U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities
