American Tree Farm System
A program of the American Forest Foundation
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History

Our History

1932

American Forest Products Industries begins operations, focusing on fire prevention outreach and support for self-regulation of privately owned forests.

1941

The American Tree Farm System® is founded.

1969

American Forest Products Industries evolves into the American Forest Institute, a forest products industry trade association dedicated to improving the management of America’s forests.

1981

The American Forest Foundation is chartered as the nonprofit arm of the American Forest Institute, tasked with performing its educational, scientific and charitable activities.

1986

The American Forest Institute evolves into the American Forest Council, an education and outreach organization to supplement the lobbying activities of the National Forest Products Association.

1987

The American Forest Foundation becomes a co-sponsor of Project Learning Tree, an environmental education program administered by the American Forest Council.

1993

The American Forest Council aligns with the American Paper Institute to form the American Forest & Paper Association. The American Forest Foundation takes over the administration of Project Learning Tree and the American Tree Farm System.

2008

The American Tree Farm System receives an international endorsement from PEFC, the world’s largest independent, nongovernmental organization that promotes sustainably managed forests through independent third-party certification.

2017

The administration of Project Learning Tree is shifted to the Sustainable Forestry Initiative.

2018

The American Forest Foundation acquires Woodscamp, an online tool that matches landowners with opportunities and connects them with professional support.

2020

In partnership with The Nature Conservancy, the American Forest Foundation launches the pilot of the Family Forest Carbon Program in Pennsylvania.

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