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University of Nebraska students visit Tasmanian forests

A group of University of Nebraska students learnt about sustainable forestry’s role in enhancing ecosystems and supporting private landowners at Fulham in Dunalley, Tasmania. Source: Timberbiz The visit in early January, was part of their study abroad program Managing Diverse Ecosystems in Australia and underscored broad-reaching benefits of Private Forests Tasmania’s work, from improving biodiversity and supporting carbon sequestration to providing sustainable economic opportunities for private landowners. The session showcased the collaborative efforts between PFT and Fulham landowners Tom and Alice Gray who shared their stories of resilience and innovation. The landowners showcased their property featuring a fascinating transformation from burnt plantation pines to an opportunity for reforestation and sustainable land use. Fulham is one of seven successful Integrated Farm Forestry Demonstration Sites receiving grant funding to develop landscape scale best practice forestry plantings establishing more than 20.2 hectares of commercial shelterbelts along established fence lines. There are 14 separate shelterbelt plantings consisting mainly of mixed shelterbelts. The Pinus radiata (radiata pine) and Eucalyptus globulus (blue gum) were planted to allow for staggered harvesting to occur, allowing the Grays to maintain their shelter benefits while gaining some economic returns. The students learnt about Tasmania’s forestry story, which unfolded through discussions on its history and the challenges of sustainable forest management on private lands. PFT Operations Manager Jarrod Burn shared his expertise on the critical management issues associated with sustainable forest management on private land, sparking a con-versation that illuminated both barriers and opportunities in the sector. “Several barriers to farm forestry adoption by private landowners include a lack of forestry knowledge or experience, market uncertainty created by the complexity of long-term forestry investments, opportunity costs, historical distrust brought about by failed Managed Investment Schemes and social licence implications,” Mr Burn said. “However, there are plenty of positive benefits to planting trees beyond their commercial value at harvest. “Farm forestry provides improved shade and shelter for livestock, enhances water quality, reduces erosion, and improves soil health. “It supports biodiversity while creating wood products for both farm use, like fence posts and firewood, and broader markets. “This is becoming increasingly important for farmers looking to lower their net carbon emissions.” Mr Burn explained to the students the strengths, uses and challenges of the most commonly grown plantation species in Tasmania were Eucalyptus nitens (shining gum), Eucalyptus globulus, and Pinus radiata. “Although these species dominate, we’ve seen success with alternatives like black-wood, cypress, and redwood, offering opportunities for diversification,” he said. “Unfortunately, Tasmania is currently losing about 2,000–5,000 hectares of plantation forest annually due to land conversion, although there’s evidence this decline is slowing.” “Private landowners are deeply invested in their land. Many are generational farmers, taking immense pride in their stewardship. “I’ve noticed a shift in younger generations, they’re more environmentally conscious and aware of public perceptions.” Mr Burn emphasised the potential of sustainable forestry to contribute not just to Tasmania’s economy, but also to its ecological resilience. The session concluded with a Q&A session where students from farming backgrounds delved into the economic benefits of integrating timber as a secondary income source and the potential for forestry to diversify farm enterprises while contributing to landscape restoration. Dr Mark Burbach, Environmental Social Scientist from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s School of Natural Resources, praised the program for its depth and impact it had on the 20 students on tour. “While clearly of value to our agroforestry students, it is quite apparent what Private Forests Tasmania is doing has so many ecosystem benefits,” said Dr Burbach. “Our students studying wildlife management, entomology, environmental and agricultural policy, and others experienced first-hand the benefits of your work to private land-owners.” The day also featured contributions from PFT CEO Elizabeth Pietrzykowski and Forest Education Foundation manager Darcy Vickers, whose expertise and commitment shone through in their discussions on forestry’s environmental and economic potential. The collaboration between PFT and the University of Nebraska provided an invaluable educational experience, fostering global connections and a shared commitment to sustainability.