Forestry and Environmental Resources Research

Wildfire emitting smoke along a mountain ridge.

Jul 17, 2026

How Wildfire Smoke Affects Your Health

Associate Professor Jennifer Richmond-Bryant explains how wildfire smoke affects health, why risks vary and what communities can do to prepare.

A bison stands in tall grass surrounded by mist or dust, facing directly toward the camera.

Jul 14, 2026

When Wildlife Attacks

As visitation to natural spaces rises, so does the risk of dangerous encounters between humans and wildlife, according to NC State professor Nils Peterson.

A bird with a blue head, yellow-green feathers and a red underside sits perched on a tree branch.

Jun 12, 2026

How and Where to Find the Painted Bunting — North Carolina’s Most Colorful Songbird

NC State professor Christopher Moorman addresses common questions about the painted bunting, including where and when they can be found and how birdwatchers can increase their chances of spotting one.

A close-up of a sack filled with light brown granular material, resembling fertilizer.

May 6, 2026

The Next Resource Crisis: Phosphorus Emerges as a Growing Global Security Concern

Supply chain risks and environmental pressures are raising concerns about the long-term availability and sustainability of phosphorus-related resources, prompting world governments to prioritize domestic production to strengthen national security.

A field of white-blossomed trees with a backdrop of taller evergreen trees under a cloudy sky.

Apr 22, 2026

Bradford Pear Bounty Program Replaces Invasive Trees With Native Species

A statewide program offers free native trees to North Carolinians in exchange for invasive Bradford pears, restoring natural habitats and biodiversity.

Upward view of a tree trunk with a canopy of green leaves and dappled sunlight.

Apr 8, 2026

What Are the Worst Trees for Allergies?

Hardwood trees are the main source of spring allergies, releasing pollen from February through May that can trigger respiratory symptoms.

Forest fire with large flames and thick smoke above green shrubs.

Apr 3, 2026

Amazon Wildfires: Why They Happen and How to Stop Them

NC State experts explain what drives Amazon wildfires, their impact on forests and communities and how policies and technology aim to prevent them.

Dense evergreen forest with a cloud of pollen creating a hazy effect.

Mar 26, 2026

Pine Tree Pollen Unlikely to Cause Spring Allergies

Pine pollen is less likely to trigger allergic reactions compared to hardwood tree pollen. NC State professor Robert Bardon explains why.

A turtle resting on a log in a body of water with foliage in the background.

Mar 23, 2026

Last Stand on the Rio Grande: Pollution, Drought and a Species on the Brink

The Rio Grande cooter faces habitat loss, human impacts and environmental challenges. Learn how researchers are studying the species to protect its future.

Close-up of a black insect with glossy, segmented body and yellowish-green legs against a white background.

Feb 5, 2026

Elm Zigzag Sawfly: Tiny Invader Poses Growing Threat to Tree Health

Learn how the elm zigzag sawfly damages trees, how to identify it, prevent its spread and manage infestations effectively.