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Our Work
FOREST TODAY
In 2026, FOREST plans to expand its reach by strengthening partnerships with the Central Pine Barrens Commission and local organizations working across the region. By aligning goals and strategies, FOREST will help guide conservation priorities, reduce duplication of effort, and direct funding and support to meaningful, high-impact projects. Together, these partnerships aim to build a unified voice for stewardship of the Pine Barrens Maritime Region and strengthen engagement with local communities.
Donate Today
Funding FOREST means investing directly in prioritized conservation across the Long Island Pine Barrens Maritime Reserve, from the waterways of the maritime region to the sandy trails of the Central Pine Barrens. Our team has deep experience and long-standing connections to these ecosystems, and our ability to continue this work depends on public investment and community support.
Our Past Projects
Central Pine Barrens Science and Stewardship Programs
- Housing for Central Pine Barrens Commission seasonal staff and visiting researchers including:
- Fire program seasonal staffing
- SPB Suppression and other emerging invasive or forest health issues...
Central Pine Barrens Scenic Roads Project.
The Central Pine Barrens Comprehensive Land Use Plan Volume 2 identified and described scenic roads in the Central Pine Barrens. Some of these roadways and highways could be eligible for consideration under the New York State Scenic Byways program. The project would entail further study and analysis of these roads and development of nomination applications to New York State.
Central Pine Barrens Water Resources Study.
Continuation of certains aspects of a joint Central Pine Barrens Commission-US Geological Survey study including monitoring of existing wells and study of coastal plain pond hydrology.
New York Wildfire and Incident Management Academy.
Facilitate and foster the Academy's efforts to provide training for local and regional firefighting personnel, especially in regard to wildfire response, management and prevention.
History of FERN
FOREST is the successor to the Foundation for Ecological Research in the Northeast (FERN), a nonprofit established in 2003 to conserve, protect, and enhance habitats for plants, fish, and wildlife through research, education, and information sharing. FERN implemented the first forest health monitoring program in the Central Pine Barrens in 2005 and was involved in managing the Upton Ecological and Research Reserve at Brookhaven National Laboratory.