8-26 FB Private Forest

 At a recent National Tree Farmers Convention, the American Tree Farm System named Idaho Forest Owners Association members Steve and Janet Funk of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho as 2011 National Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year. This prestigious award came after the Funks competed with nominees from the 11 western states and became the 2011 Western Region Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year in May. They were then judged against three other Regional winners to finally be chosen for the national award.

Kirk David, EVP of Idaho Forest Owners Association explains what is necessary to have present in your forest in order to win the award: “Clean air and water and wildlife habitat and that sort of thing in addition to forest products. There are lots of different kinds including lumber and biomass and that sort of thing.” .This is the first time in the 70 year history of ATFS that an Idaho Tree Farmer has achieved this national honor.