SAF Mission Statement / Core

The Society of American Foresters (SAF) is the national scientific and educational organization representing the forestry profession in the United States. Founded in 1900 by Gifford Pinchot, it is the largest professional society for foresters in the world. The mission of the Society of American Foresters is to advance the science, education, technology, and practice of forestry; to enhance the competency of its members; to establish professional excellence; and, to use the knowledge, skills, and conservation ethic of the profession to ensure the continued health and use of forest ecosystems and the present and future availability of forest resources to benefit society. SAF is a nonprofit organization meeting the requirements of 501 (c) (3). SAF members include natural resource professionals in public and private settings, researchers, CEOs, administrators, educators, and students.

SAF Core language (6/2013)

Thriving forests. Essentials resources.
A strong community.

• • We challenge land owners, decision-makers and society at large to make choices about our forests based on professional knowledge, leading-edge thinking and a century of practical experience.

• • We seek viable pathways forward, balancing diverse demands on our natural resources.

• • We set the standard in forest management, bringing science, best practice and the best people together to actively shape the future of the profession.

• ‘For the greatest good. For the greatest number. For the long run.’