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

Reflection: Vermont Forest Innovation Summit highlights opportunities for Northern Forest amid acute challenges

We’re in a moment of tremendous challenge to the health of forests and the livelihoods of people who steward and depend on them. And there is a clear opportunity, and need, for smart policy and investment. 

Dirt road through White Mountain National Forest in the autumn.

The proposed end of ‘Roadless Rule’ is concerning, but ongoing dismantlement of U.S. Forest Service is a bigger threat

While we remain concerned about the recission of the "Roadless Rule," we perceive this administration’s systematic dismantling of the U.S. Forest Service to be an even bigger threat to the long-term health of federal forest lands.

Lumber stacked.

Vermont organizations join Northern Forest Center in addressing impact of Finch Paper decision

Finch Paper in Glens Falls, New York, recently announced it will no longer be making its own pulp, ending its purchase of pulpwood from the region. This was a significant blow to the market for pulpwood and low-grade wood in eastern New York and Vermont, sparking immediate concern among those familiar with wood products and forest stewardship.

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Staff Contacts

man smiling in front of trees

Joe Short

Vice President
Cell: 603-491-2651