At the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point (UWSP), the Society of American Foresters (SAF) Student Chapter is shaping the next generation of forestry through a blend of skill-building, service, and hands-on learning. What begins as an academic interest quickly grows into something deeper: a community built from stewardship and shared purpose

A Mission That Extends Beyond the Classroom 

The chapter’s mission is to teach practical forestry skills and techniques, prepare students for UWSP forestry skill evaluations, help students connect with forestry professionals, share internships and job opportunities, and promote the UWSP forestry program.  

This mission guides everything they do, but the way this chapter brings these goals to life is the real inspiration. Students deepen their knowledge beyond the classroom through experiences that take them directly into the forest. They participate in forestry skills competitions, tree-identification walks for students, tour forestry businesses to explore real-world career paths, and help local property owners with tree planting. Students also attend state conferences and the annual SAF National Convention, expanding their professional network across the country and connecting to the broader forestry community. 

 

Service as a Way of Learning

Service plays a critical role in the chapter’s culture. In the past year, members planted 2,500 trees in a single week, collected red pine seed cones for the Wisconsin DNR nursery program, and spent time cleaning local highways. They also crafted wooden benches for a local daycare, demonstrating how forestry skills can directly benefit local communities. 

Their involvement in the Kretz Forestry Festival gave students a chance to meet private landowners, connect with forestry professionals, and tour a working sawmill. This experience linked classroom concepts to in-the-field practices. 

A Community Growing Together 

The UWSP SAF Student Chapter is a training ground for future foresters who understand that stewardship is both a responsibility and a privilege. Through hands-on projects and giving back to their local community, these students are building the skills that will guide them throughout their careers. 

We are #forestproud to share their stories of students finding their purpose and inspiring the next generation of foresters to follow.