WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5
ALL TIMES EDT
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM EDT | FUN RUN
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM EDT | BUFFET BREAKFAST
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM EDT | HOW MASS TIMBER BUILDINGS IMPROVE OUR CLIMATE AND OUR COMMUNITIES
Demand is growing for mass timber, and SFI-certified wood is increasingly sought to demonstrate the environmental and social benefits. This session highlights success stories like Georgia’s first locally grown and sourced 619 Ponce mass timber building, and advancements in specifying SFI-certified mass timber for projects within new market segments. Hear from representatives involved in the building and the efforts to educate Fortune 100 businesses and political leaders about the benefits of mass timber for our climate and our communities.
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM EDT | PRESIDENT’S AWARD
10:15 AM – 10:45 PM EDT | BREAK
10:45 AM – 12:00 PM EDT | CONSERVATION OF SPECIES AT RISK IN SFI-CERTIFIED FORESTS
Over the last several decades, implementation of forest management and procurement practices catalyzed by SFI standards have led to the improvement of wildlife habitat that is increasingly recognized for its conservation value.
Through innovative policy solutions and novel technological approaches to species monitoring, the Wildlife Conservation Initiative is demonstrating those conservation values in action in managed forests across the nation. Hear from scientists, industry leaders, and the US Fish & Wildlife Service about on-the-ground regulatory, tech, and partnership breakthroughs in managing forests for the co-benefits of species at risk
Dr. Catherine Phillips
Assistant Regional Director, Ecological Services, Southeast Region
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
John Tirpak
Chief, Division of Conservation and Classification – Ecological Services
US Fish and Wildlife Service
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM EDT | BUFFET LUNCH
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM EDT | Fire Resiliency Strategies and Opportunities
Learn about fire resiliency best practices, incorporation of innovative science, and ecosystem considerations. Speakers will present research and modeling on fire behavior and highlight strategies to promote fire-adapted landscapes. This session will feature approaches for creating diverse partnerships that advance fire requirements in the SFI standards.
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM EDT | CREATING POSITIVE CHANGE WITH COMMUNITIES
Communities – from rural to urban – rely on forests for social, environmental, and economic benefits. These links between people and forests are even more relevant in an increasingly connected and changing world. Gain insights on practical strategies and initiatives that create positive change with communities, especially urban and Indigenous communities.
Scott Robertson
Senior Associate and Aboriginal Rights Lawyer, Nahwegahbow Corbiere LLP and PEFC Board member
Member of the Six Nations of the Grand River
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM EDT | BREAK
MOVE TO CONCURRENT SESSIONS
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM EDT | CONCURRENT SESSIONS
A. TRIBAL ENGAGEMENT IN THE US: BENEFITS AND BEST PRACTICES
SFI is committed to promoting forest-focused collaborations rooted in recognition and respect for Indigenous Peoples’ rights and traditional knowledge. Learn about forest sector best practices in Tribal Relations and how inclusive, collaborative approaches to policy, program, and relationship development can lead to real progress on the ground and a positive difference in people’s lives.
Mekko Chebon Kernell
Mvskoke Traditional Practitioner and Executive Director
Native American Comprehensive Plan of the United Methodist Church
Adrian Leighton
Natural Resources Division Head, Salish Kootenai College; and
Research Co-Chair, Intertribal Timber Council
B. URBAN AND COMMUNITY FORESTRY: BENEFITS AND BEST PRACTICES
Urban forests and trees are vital for community well-being, health, resiliency, and sustainability. Gain insights into the new SFI Urban and Community Forest Sustainability Standard, the diversity of interest in using the standard, and benefits for communities.
Pat Layton
Director, Wood Utilization + Design Institute, Clemson University
and SFI Board of Director
Paul Johnson
Vice President, Urban and Community Forestry and Career Pathways
Sustainable Forestry Initiative
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM EDT | LOCAL URBAN TOURS
SPACES ARE LIMITED, REGISTRATION REQUIRED
A. TREES ATLANTA WALKING TOUR
Enjoy the fresh air on a leisurely stroll with city views as the backdrop of Atlanta’s popular linear arboretum. The tour guide will share fascinating Atlanta history and guide you through the current season of horticulture interest on the Atlanta BeltLine Arboretum. The tour will start at the conference hotel at 4 pm, last approximately 1.5 hours and cover approximately 3 miles, ending at the evening dinner event location (Ponce City Market), so bring your walking shoes!
B. 619 PONCE TOUR
Come with us for a tour led by Jamestown LP and Georgia Pacific of 619 Ponce, a four-story mass timber loft office building at Ponce City Market. 619 Ponce is the first mass timber building in Georgia constructed with timber sourced and produced locally and will be featured in Wednesday morning’s plenary session. Attendees will learn about the building’s design, construction, and sustainability features.
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT | SFI ROOFTOP DINNER & PARTY
Relax and unwind with a view of Atlanta’s downtown. Catch up with colleagues and meet new ones over great food and drinks. The location is a 40-minute walk from the conference hotel or a short shuttle ride.
