MOSCOW, ID – The University of Idaho has announced the creation of the Forest Innovations Institute (FII), a new interdisciplinary research center aimed at tackling the challenges facing modern forestry. The institute will work with landowners, industry leaders, and government agencies to apply cutting-edge science and technology to sustainable forest management.

Dennis Becker, dean of U of I’s College of Natural Resources, said the institute will focus on topics including tree genetics, forest health, fire modeling, and the economics of forest management. “FII will engage broadly with public and private landowners, industry partners, tribal governments, nonprofits, and universities on a regional and even international level,” Becker said. “Our goal is to ensure that forestry research is both innovative and grounded in real-world needs.”

In addition to research, the institute will support workforce training and development to prepare the next generation of forestry professionals with both technical and scientific expertise.

The institute will collaborate with existing university programs such as the Center for Forest Nursery and Seedling Research, the Forest Products Lab, and the Intermountain Forestry Cooperative, among others, to enhance its research capabilities.

Industry leaders have welcomed the announcement. PotlatchDeltic, which manages more than 620,000 acres of timberlands in Idaho, called the institute a “major win” for the state’s forestry sector. “With more than half of our professional staff in Idaho being graduates of the College of Natural Resources, we view FII’s goal to generate an even higher-quality trained workforce as a major win for Idaho,” said Darrin Ball, vice president of Timberlands at PotlatchDeltic.

Dustin Miller, director of the Idaho Department of Lands, said the institute’s creation comes at a critical time. “As demand for wood and wood products continues to grow, advancements in forestry research and technology are essential to maintaining a sustainable supply of wood and fiber,” Miller said.

Becker added that the institute’s work is vital as forests face pressures from wildfires, pests, climate change, and economic shifts. “The Forest Innovations Institute represents a bold response,” he said. “By integrating new technologies, industry collaboration, and state-of-the-art research, we aim to support healthy, productive forests.”

FII is currently accepting project proposals, collaboration inquiries, and student applications. More information is available on the University of Idaho website.