Extension Programs
The goal of the Sharp Logger Program in conjunction with the forest products industry in Virginia is to train every logger and forester in the Commonwealth in the principles of sustainable forestry, environmental protection and workplace safety. Instruction is provided by Virginia Tech, Virginia Cooperative Extension Service, Virginia Department of Forestry, forest products industry professionals, and others. The current SHARP Logger Program Coordinator is Scott M. Barrett, an Extension Associate in the Virginia Tech Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation.
The Virginia Master Naturalist Program is a statewide corps of volunteers providing education, outreach, and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities. Interested Virginians become Master Naturalists through training and volunteer service.
Virginia’s LEAF Program aims to provide educational experiences for Virginians by combining outdoor forestry and natural resources learning with heritage tourism. Virginia’s LEAF Program is creating a series of outdoor classrooms to help inform Virginians about forestry and natural resources management. Each classroom offers a unique historical setting where various informational programs can be offered for youth and adults. A permanent inventory system at each site will help track the benefits of sustainable forestry and interpretive curriculum will help combine historical and technical education.