Strengthening Collaboration Across the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest (PNW) Forest Collaboratives Network emerged out of the annual PNW Forest Collaboratives Workshop in 2021 and provides a platform for shared-learning, connection, and open dialogue with state and federal agencies. The goal of the network is to support forest restoration collaboratives and their partners working to improve the health and resilience of national forests across Region 6 of the US Forest Service.
The Network is made up of two statewide networks, the Oregon Forest Collaboratives Network and the Washington Forest Collaboratives Network.
For decades, the Forest Collaborative model has been used in the Pacific Northwest to find agreement and solutions among diverse interest groups in order to support projects and address issues that occur on our National Forests and their surrounding areas.
Like the landscapes they work on, Forest Collaboratives across the region differ in many ways — there are varying governance structures, operating protocols, focal areas, etc. — but at its core, collaboration requires trust, understanding, and willingness to explore solutions that work for multiple interests.
Forest Collaboratives provide a space for all voices to be heard and supports:
reduced risk of uncharacteristic wildfire, landslides, and flooding
local economic development
conservation of our region’s natural resources
recreation opportunities
Interested in the full story of how collaboration became prevalent in the PNW? Check out Oregon Public Broadcasting’s podcast “Timber Wars” for the complete story.
Oregon Forest Collaboratives Network (OFCN)
Washington Forest Collaboratives Network (WFCN)
