Extension
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The Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources (FER) supports NC State’s land grant mandate by maintaining a diverse extension and outreach program. We believe in sharing our knowledge with the people of North Carolina and in supporting the economic prosperity of NC communities, particularly since forestry and natural resources tourism rank among NC's largest industries.
FER works hard to make sure that the general public, landowners and industry professionals all have an opportunity to learn of new discoveries and techniques affecting their lives as soon as possible. We do this by sponsoring Extension Programs that reach people in a variety of different ways. These programs cover the spectrum of forestry and natural resource management, ranging from tree breeding and harvesting to environmental sciences, public education, wildlife control, community development and more.
Case in Point
Dennis Hazel, Extension Specialist and Associate Professor, has provided leadership and vision toward making significant impacts on the economic, environmental, and social well-being of the citizens of North Carolina. Dr. Hazel’s efforts will ultimately result in:
- reducing green house gas emissions in the state by over 133 million metric tons of carbon dioxide by 2020.
- creating markets for forest –based biomass that will generate an annual value of $160 million and about 3000 new jobs for North Carolina.
- improving the health and quality of North Carolina’s 18.3 million acres of forest.
These impacts will occur because of Dr. Hazel’s ability to integrate research and extension, exemplifying what it means to be an engaged University. Dr. Hazel is extremely effective in communicating and transferring knowledge. His efforts have provided:
- assistance to utilities, industries and others interested in using wood as a fuel source.
- educational programs for natural resource professionals, landowners, and others.
- ongoing forums on bioenergy and other forms of alternative energy for the larger community.
- educational materials addressing the various facets of renewable energy and woody biomass.
Dr. Hazel exemplifies what a land–grant university represents. He is one of the best in the nation and is a credit to himself, the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, the College of Natural resources, and to North Carolina State University.
Continuing Education
If you are interested in taking courses that will teach you how to better manage your own land or wildlife populations, you can enhance your knowledge of forestry and natural resource management through several NC State continuing education programs:
- Most of FER's Extension Programs offer regular programs, seminars and special courses to educate the public and industry professionals.
- The Forestry and Environmental Outreach Program (FEOP) is an award-winning service center that provides a critical outreach component bringing the academic knowledge and applied research provided by the College of Natural Resources and NC Cooperative Extension Forestry to the citizens of North Carolina.
- Upcoming Educational Programs in Calendar Year 2010
- Other NC State resources for continuing education include NC Cooperative Extension, McKimmon Center for Continuing Education and NC State Extension and Engagement.
