The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is gearing up to enhance its services for urban residents across the state with the addition of five new hires and innovative initiatives. This expansion, made possible by funding from the Oregon State Legislature and the USDA Forest Service through the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), signifies a significant stride in bolstering tree-related support for Oregon’s cities and towns.
Scott Altenhoff, Manager of ODF’s Urban and Community Assistance Forestry program, expressed his anticipation for the agency’s increased capacity with the new staff onboard. “With 241 cities and towns in Oregon spread over 90,000 square miles and only one urban forester, we were limited in how much support we could provide to any one community,” said Altenhoff. “With more staff, I’m excited we can engage with more communities to help them plan and manage their urban trees in accordance with best practices and the latest scientific research.”
Previously, Brittany Oxford served as the agency’s lone Community Assistance Forester. However, since March 18, ODF has welcomed four new members to its team: Evan Elderbrock, Lilah Gonen, Alison Herrell, and Jennifer Killian. Killian, with her extensive background in municipal forestry, brings valuable experience from her tenure as the urban forester for the City of Corvallis and her involvement with various tree planting organizations.
Alison Herrell, a Board-Certified Master Arborist and Qualified Tree Risk Assessor, adds her expertise in environmental science and arboriculture to the team. With experience spanning restoration work with non-profits to technical training roles in plant diagnostics, Herrell’s multifaceted background enriches ODF’s capabilities in tree care and management.
Evan Elderbrock and Lilah Gonen, transitioning from specialist roles focusing on emerald ash borer preparation and management, further strengthen ODF’s outreach efforts. Their diverse academic backgrounds and hands-on experience in ecology and forestry equip them to assist communities in navigating tree-related challenges effectively.
One of the key initiatives spearheaded by ODF is the provision of tree inventory software, made possible through federal grants. Scott Altenhoff emphasized the importance of this software, stating, “The advantage is that everyone can compare their trees to every other community in Oregon using the software.” This initiative aims to facilitate informed decision-making regarding tree planting and management while enhancing awareness of tree pests and diseases.
Looking ahead, ODF anticipates leveraging $26.6 million in new federal funds from the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to further support community-based initiatives. With the upcoming call for applications from community-based organizations, spearheaded by the newly appointed grants administrator, Hilary Olivos-Rood, ODF aims to foster collaborative efforts in advancing urban forestry and environmental stewardship.
Hilary Olivos-Rood, transitioning from her role as the agency’s administrator for the Board of Forestry, brings her expertise in risk management and civic engagement to her new position. Her background underscores ODF’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion as integral components of its mission.
Source: ODF
