USA: International Fellowship Program in Forestry and Natural Resources

International Fellowship Program in Forestry and Natural Resources, USA

Looking for a fresh perspective on forestry?
Come experience the beauty of the famous forested landscape of Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Make connections with the region’s forest sector and learn the trends impacting this industry and community. This land has always been a landscape in constant motion. It is also where the shifting currents of globalization, trade, environmental concerns and land stewardship clash, producing many of forestry’s iconic images: old-growth forests, spotted owls, spectacular fires, economic boom and bust cycles, forest fragmentation, and the new sustainability ethic. Come learn how these factors have impacted the people who depend on the forestry sector, and hear their stories of struggle, adaptation and survival. Because in spite of everything, Oregon is still America’s timber basket.

The WFI Fellowship brings professionals in natural resources–such as foresters, environmental educators, land managers, NGO practioners and researchers–to conduct a practical research project at the World Forestry Center. In addition to their specific projects, Fellows participate in weekly field trips, interviews and site visits to Northwest forestry organizations, parks, universities, public and private timberlands, trade associations, mills, and corporations. The Fellowship is a unique opportunity to learn about sustainable forestry from the Pacific Northwest forestry sector, and to work with colleagues from around the world. Fellowships are open to any country, and there is a matching grant from the Harry A. Merlo Foundation. Over 75 Fellows from 24 countries have participated to date.
WFI International Fellowship Program - Term: 6-12 months - Applications accepted year-round.
Fellowship benefits include:

• Opportunity to develop the contacts and skills necessary to advance your professional career
• Conducting a project on a forestry or related natural resource topic of your choice
• Visits and field tours to public and private forestry organizations
• Working with forestry colleagues from around the world
• The Harry A. Merlo Foundation provides a matching grant that covers 50% of the Fellowship fee (applicants are responsible for the other 50% plus additional visa and travel costs)
• Monthly stipend ~ $1000/month (net taxes)
• Public transportation pass provided

Why Portland, Oregon?

• Portland is a green, livable city of 1.8 million
• Half of the state is forestland
• Oregon is the largest producer of forest products among the 50 US states
• The Pacific Northwest is abundant with natural beauty and outdoor recreation: Portland is only one hour from mountains, beaches, forests, and desert

For details, including application instructions, please visit this link OR contact Program Manager, Chandalin Bennett, cbennett[ at ]worldforestry.org
Australian applicants should also contact the Gottstein Trust:
http://www.gottsteintrust.org/html/info/wfifel.htm
WFI is a program of the World Forestry Center, which also operates a museum, event facilities, educational programs and demonstration tree farms. The World Forestry Center is an educational 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
World Forestry Center
4033 SW Canyon Road
Portland, Oregon 97221