This podcast episode from Oregon State University's Extension Service covers community forests in the Pacific Northwest and their role in the community-based conservation movement. Hosted by Jake Barker, the discussion features Daniel Wear from Sustainable Northwest. They explore the definition, goals, and management practices of community forests, emphasizing the significance of maintaining water quality, fire risk mitigation, and timber revenue through community-led initiatives. Key examples include the Arch Cape Community Forest and Montesano City Forest, showcasing varying structures and benefits. Funding challenges and sources are also discussed, along with the role of the Northwest Community Forest Coalition in supporting new and existing community forests. Daniel leads Sustainable Northwest's Community Forest Program which includes his facilitation of the Northwest Community Forest Coalition along with his direct support to communities in protecting their drinking water supplies through forest management. Daniel earned an MPA in Environmental Policy and Management from the University of Washington, with the goal of helping conservation non-profits connect communities to the resources needed for landscape protection. Daniel loves biking of all kinds, camping, and if possible, a combination of the two. For more accessible information on this and other episodes, visit IntheWoodsPodcast.com.

00:00 Introduction to In the Woods Podcast

00:32 Host Introduction and Episode Topic

01:19 Guest Introduction: Daniel Wear

04:31 Defining Community Forests

11:22 Examples of Community Forests

18:51 Watershed Management in Community Forests

27:12 Challenges and Opportunities in Community Forests

30:47 Public Access and Community Involvement

38:39 Funding and Support for Community Forests

44:47 Lightning Round and Conclusion