The Center advocates for policies and economic opportunities that benefit rural communities. (Ian MacLellan photo)
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Advancing Rural Opportunity

We believe in the value and potential of rural communities. Since 1997, the Center has brought people together to build relationships and strategies to strengthen the communities and economy of the region.

In 2019, the Aspen Institute’s Community Strategies Group profiled the Center in a report on new approaches to economic development work in rural places. A major focus of the Aspen Institute’s research is on integrated approaches and community engagement to improve the economy and infrastructure, and to address social needs while also pursuing equity and long-term prosperity.

That integration courses through all that we do. We are building the New Forest Future by investing in people and communities to secure regional prosperity and a resilient landscape.

The Northern Forest Center is a national leader in planning and implementing game-changing economic development strategies in rural communities. USDA has invested in these strategies because we believe they will help strengthen rural communities in Vermont and New Hampshire by creating jobs and new economies.”

– Ted Brady, Former USDA Rural Development State Director for Vermont and New Hampshire

Our Work in Rural Communities

Rob Riley, president of the Northern Forest Center, speaks on the Aspen Institute’s Aspen panel.

A Stronger Rural Voice

We co-founded a national coalition to change the way policy makers think about rural America by showcasing rural innovation and leadership and advising on public policy that affects rural communities.

The Northern Forest Regional Symposium

A Robust Outdoor Recreation Economy

We co-convened the Northern Forest Regional Symposium to explore the evolving trends in outdoor recreation and its role as a critical economic driver in the Northern Forest region.

Regional Leadership

The Dismantlement of the U.S. Forest Service Threatens the Health of Our Forests and Communities

At a time when our forests are more important than ever, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has released a U.S. Forest Service Reorganization Plan that authorizes the near elimination of place-based forest research that is the basis for sound forest management and increases the distance between the agency and practitioners.

Forest Policy Must Be More Than Headline-Driven

Center President Rob Riley highlights the importance of thoughtful dialogue about managing the region's forests, leaning into a "both/and" approach.

woman speaks at building celebration

Community-Centered Solutions Inspire Center Board Member Tabitha Bowling

A single conversation about wood heating solutions turned into nearly a decade of leadership for Tabitha Bowling—and positive impact for Northern Forest communities.

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Staff Contacts

man smiling in front of trees

Joe Short

Vice President
Cell: 603-491-2651