The Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) program at the College of the Redwoods (CR) is celebrating its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of impactful education that has shaped the future of forestry in California. Established in 1965, the program has become a cornerstone of the college, preparing students to manage and protect the region’s vital natural resources, particularly the iconic redwood forests.
The program has evolved significantly since its inception, thanks to the vision of community leaders and forestry professionals who recognized the need for a curriculum that balances scientific knowledge with stewardship. Among the early advocates was George “OG” Gentry, who joined the Forestry Advisory Committee in 1967. Gentry’s commitment to education emphasized professionalism and responsibility, laying the groundwork for a program that prepares students not only for careers but for a lifetime of public service and responsible land management.
Dr. Keith Flamer, President of CR, highlighted the program’s importance, stating, “Sustainably managed forests are critical to the future of our planet. Our graduates contribute to economic growth, cultural preservation, and community well-being, not just here in Humboldt, but across the country.”
Current students reflect the program’s hands-on approach to learning. For instance, Francisco Saavedra Jr., a native California Indian, credits CR with providing him a strong educational foundation that has paved the way for success at the university level. Saavedra Jr. expressed his appreciation for the program, stating, “If I could have completed my entire bachelor’s degree at CR, I would have. That’s how much I value the program.” He also noted that the program provided critical connections and opportunities, including his apprenticeship with Redwoods Rising.
Students like Vaughn Mitchell, who grew up on the Laytonville Rancheria, have found a strong sense of community through the FNR program. “The program has helped me find community and purpose,” he shared, emphasizing the teamwork and shared love for the forest that brings aspiring foresters together.
As the program continues to grow, it remains committed to connecting students with the land. Iona Mahony-Moyer, a current student, highlighted the unique experiences within the program, particularly in her Dendrology class, where she and her classmates not only learned about tree identification but also built friendships and confidence in their skills as foresters.
In 2002, Dr. Tim Baker joined the college and restructured the curriculum to integrate fieldwork with academic rigor. “When I started, the program was focused solely on the vocational/technical side of things,” Baker explained. He aimed to create a dual focus on academic transfer and technical skills, which has become a defining characteristic of the program.
The FNR program achieved a significant milestone in recent years by obtaining accreditation from the Society of American Foresters (SAF), a distinction held by only two community colleges in California. This accreditation allows graduates to pursue professional certification as Registered Professional Foresters, enhancing their career prospects with agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management.
The program also nurtures a new generation of leaders in cultural fire management. Three students, including Saavedra Jr., were recently named Resilient Careers in Forestry Ambassadors by the California Community College Foundation. Their background and cultural knowledge uniquely position them to address important ecological challenges, including the science of fire and its role in forest ecosystems.
In addition to traditional forestry education, the program is evolving with new initiatives such as the Geomatics Certificate. This program trains students in drone and sensor technology, mapping, and spatial data analysis, which are essential skills for modern wildfire and forest management.
As the FNR program marks its 60th anniversary, it continues to embody the belief that education and service go hand in hand, a philosophy established by its founders and carried forth by every student and faculty member. The program strives to prepare ethical, skilled professionals equipped to tackle pressing challenges like climate change and sustainable resource management.
Reflecting on his father’s legacy, Gentry’s son noted that George Gentry “saw education not just as a profession, but as a calling.” For 60 years, the Forestry and Natural Resources program at the College of the Redwoods has united students, faculty, and the community in a shared mission: to cultivate knowledge, foster stewardship, and ensure that California’s forests thrive for generations to come.
