Openings available for 2025 Idaho Master Forest Stewards training

Openings are available for Idaho Master Forest Stewards training.

The program was co-designed with forest owners to increase participants’ forestry knowledge and skills; enable them to provide educational assistance to forest owners and other groups; and provide a forum for richer peer to peer learning among forest owners. Over 150 people have participated in the program thus far.

Idaho Master Forest Stewards receive over 70 hours of training, much of which consists of selected existing University of Idaho Extension programs many Idaho forest owners may have already completed, a press release said.

But, the program also includes new indoor and outdoor educational experiences designed to take participants to the next level of managing their forest and helping other forest owners to do the same. These four one-day “IMFS core sessions” are held at forested sites throughout North Idaho to expose participants to a range of forest ecosystems.

In return for their training, Idaho Master Forest Stewards provide 70 hours of volunteer service helping forest owners and other groups learn more about research-based information on Idaho forests and forestry. 

A variety of volunteer service activities are possible, including outreach to forest owners, helping with forest owner associations or teaching youth about forests. Idaho Master Forest Stewards function as University of Idaho Extension volunteers, similar to Idaho Master Gardeners and 4-H leaders.

Applications for the Master Forest Stewards program are accepted continually. When at least 10 applications are received by August of a given year, core sessions are scheduled for the next. 

The program has enough people to hold the training in 2025, but a limited number of slots are open. Those interested in taking the training this year are asked to submit applications as soon as possible. Visit uidaho.edu/extension/forestry/panhandle/programs/master-stewards for application materials and information on becoming an Idaho Master Forest Steward. The largest portion of the 2025 training would take place during four one-day sessions held April 24, May 22, Sept. 11 and Oct. 2.

"The Idaho Master Forest Stewards program requires a substantial investment of time and energy by participants," the release said. "In return, the program provides valuable learning experiences, camaraderie with others who are committed to good forest stewardship and the means of making a significant, personal impact for Idaho forests."

Call area extension educator Chris Schnepf at 208-292-1288 for details.