North Carolina Arbor Day will be observed March 22 to commemorate the annual tree-planting holiday that dates to 1872. “Tree planting is a natural and simple solution to many challenges that we face each year in North Carolina,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.
News ReleaseThe N.C. Forest Service Forest Health Program is pleased to announce a request for applications for the Ash Protection Program (APP) – 2024. Ash is an important urban species, and the APP will reimburse approved municipalities, communities and organizations for the treatment of ash trees to protect against the emerald ash borer in North Carolina. Applications will be accepted beginning March 5, 2024, and ending April 5, 2024.
Learn more / ApplyIn 2022, we saw the emergence of a new invasive insect pest in North Carolina. The elm zigzag sawfly was first reported in Canada in 2020, then Virginia in 2021 and now in Stokes and Surry counties. The insect was reported to one of our NCFS county ranger offices and later identified by NCFS county staff. NCFS forest health staff were notified, observed the insect and subsequently identified the insect at other sites in the same counties. This pest is causing defoliation to elm trees, which are being monitored across the state to determine the distribution of this insect. Learn more in the 2023 highlights report.
Learn MoreThrough a variety of diverse career opportunities from the mountain ranges of the west to the sandy soils of the east, the 650 men and women of the N.C. Forest Service work to protect, manage and promote forest resources for the citizens of North Carolina. Become a member of our highly trained workforce. The forest is calling. Will you answer?
Learn MoreThe 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.