The Story of State and Private Forestry

How did the federal government become a partner in conserving privately owned forests? This report traces the development of the USDA Forest Service’s State and Private Forestry programs and the cooperative relationships among federal agencies, state foresters, universities, and landowners. Through a historical chronology and descriptions of major programs, it examines how technical assistance, financial support, research, and forest protection helped advance conservation beyond public lands. Published in 1997, it provides historical context for the continuing challenge of sustaining the public benefits of privately owned forests.