The Coalition
Supporting the growth of community forests in the Pacific Northwest
The Northwest Community Forest Coalition is focused on supporting the emergence, development, and management of community forests in the Pacific Northwest. Formed in May 2015, the Coalition brings together practitioners and experts representing community-based organizations, land trusts, counties and jurisdictions, private corporations, and regional and national non-profit organizations. Created in response to the growing pressure on Northwest forests from increasing population, development, and climate-related disturbances, Coalition members have a shared vision that the community forest model will help stem the tide of forest loss, fragmentation, and degradation, while supporting an array of ecological services and providing fuel, fiber, jobs, and recreation to surrounding communities.
Learn more about the Northwest Community Forest Coalition through an array of materials shared below.
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2026 Strategic Plan
Throughout 2025 and 2026, the Northwest Community Forest Coalition revised and updated its Strategic plan, identifying overarching goals for the Coalition moving forward.
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Definitions and Principles
This manual was updated in 2020 following extensive discussion and debate.
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Executive Committee
Our Executive Committee, which provides leadership and keeps us organized, updated its roster in 2025.
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Community Forests: A Quick Start Guide
This guide summarizes the lessons learned by community forest managers across the country, covering key topics from acquisition and resident engagement to stewardship and funding, and offers a one-stop-shop for community forest resources.
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Operating Manual
Describes how the members at large vote on issues and participate in meetings
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Community Forest Research
A 2024 Research Paper, produced by members of the Forest Service, Oregon State University, and North Carolina State University highlights themes in ownership, governance, and management across the near 100 community forests in the United States
