Forest Research Laboratory

The Forest Research Laboratory leads innovative approaches to forest management, wood-based renewable materials and understanding of forest ecosystems to improve the health and resiliency of Oregon’s forests, economy and communities.

Partnerships improve wildfire preparedness in Washington County

Washington County faces increasing wildfire risk as development expands into fire-prone areas, fuels accumulate and climate conditions change. These efforts reduce the likelihood and severity of future wildfire impacts, helping communities...

May 2026 | Impact Story

Clatsop students explore forestry careers outdoors

Clatsop County is 87% forestland, with a mix of public and private ownership. Though the area is rich in natural resources, many local students and families may not be aware of the career opportunities nearby. The program ...

May 2026 | Impact Story

OSU, Forest Service find high wildfire risk for old forests where fire used to be common

Mature and old-growth forests are among the Pacific Northwest’s most valuable natural assets. They store large amounts of carbon, provide wildlife habitat, support water systems and contribute to recreation, tourism and other public...

May 2026 | Impact Story

Landowners expand prescribed fire use in Eastern Oregon

More than a century of fire exclusion has reshaped forests and rangelands across Eastern Oregon. Without regular low-intensity fire, fuels have built up, increasing the risk of larger, more severe wildfires. Community-led burning ...

Apr 2026 | Impact Story

Students gain skills while supporting watershed projects

Across Jackson County and much of Oregon, restoration and conservation projects often outpace the funding and staff capacity needed to monitor them. At the same time, high school students beginning to consider their future career ...

Apr 2026 | Impact Story

OSU study links stand spacing to Douglas-fir wood value

Douglas-fir is the backbone of Oregon’s timber industry and a major source of lumber, engineered wood products and manufacturing fiber in the Pacific Northwest. Better knowledge of how spacing affects wood development can help ...

Apr 2026 | Impact Story

Clatsop County leaders gain insight into forestry and wildfire

Clatsop County’s timber and forest products industries remain an important part of the local economy, supporting jobs, contractors, mills and related businesses. Clatsop County and its service districts receive significant revenue from...

Apr 2026 | Impact Story

OSU research explores western hardwood challenges

Hardwood trees such as red alder, bigleaf maple and Oregon white oak grow across millions of acres in Oregon and Washington. They shade streams, support wildlife and contribute to forest resilience. A better understanding of the...

Apr 2026 | Impact Story

Young adults gain wildfire workforce skills in Eastern Oregon

Communities across Eastern Oregon need more trained workers to reduce wildfire risk and manage forests safely. Fuels reduction, forest restoration and wildfire preparedness work require skilled crews who understand both forestry ...

Mar 2026 | Impact Story

OSU Extension expands access to forest education

Many Oregonians have limited access to practical, science-based forest education. That can reduce public understanding of forest ecology and management and weaken confidence in stewardship and natural resource decision-making. By combining...

Mar 2026 | Impact Story