The American chestnut was once an invaluable hardwood for humans and wildlife before the chestnut blight decimated its populations in the early 1900s, leaving a lasting scar on eastern North American forests. Now, the American chestnut has been considered functionally extinct for decades. Learn more about the arduous journey to restore these fallen giants across their historical range.
Blog ArticleEach summer, the N.C. Forest Service offers educators a chance to explore the environment with innovative learning activities suitable for integration into any school curriculum. In “Investigating Your Environment” workshops, teachers become the students; collecting, recording and interpreting information about the environment. This workshop is eligible for 3 CEUs.
Read More / RegisterNative foliage consuming pests cause damage that is mainly unsightly but usually have little impact on healthy trees in the long run. Bagworms and forest tent caterpillars are common defoliators in North Carolina. In addition, needle cast on conifers is often seen this time of year as a result of various fungi affecting tree needles and causing them to turn brown.
Learn More About Common DefoliatorsThe N.C. Forest Service isn't just protecting forests. We're protecting futures. By working hand in hand with the citizens of North Carolina, we ensuring our forests stay healthy and productive. Will you help us keep working forests working for future generations to enjoy?
Get Started With UsThe N.C. Forest Service manages several state forests across North Carolina. Many of them are open to the public and offer a variety of educational and recreational experiences. Select the State Forests dropdown above to learn more about a state forest near you.
News ReleaseNorth Carolina's forestland is one of the greatest influences in the state, providing economic value and adding immeasurably to the quality of life for its residents. The forest products industry is the largest manufacturing business sector in the state, contributing approximately $35.3 billion annually to the state's economy and providing around 139,700 jobs for North Carolinians. The N.C. Forest Service's primary purpose is to ensure adequate and quality forest resources for the state to meet its present and future needs.