Gratitude - Hats off to Our Inspectors!
The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.
― Ralph
Waldo Emerson
December is a good month for reflection. As we think back over this past year, and the celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the American Tree Farm System (ATFS), we think of gratitude. Gratitude for all that you, the ATFS Inspectors, have accomplished this past year and in 75 years of support. Inspectors are a key component of the American Tree Farm System. You are the voice of ATFS on the ground and the direct link to our Tree Farmers. And each one of you has given enough to ensure the creation of a thousand forests in the next 75 years. Take a look at some of your recent accomplishments:
By The Numbers:
- 20.5 million acres of forests managed to the ATFS Standards, providing Americans with clean water, critical wildlife habitat, and sustainable wood supplies.
- 2.6 million of those acres were inspected in 2016
- 92,000 Tree Farms enrolled in the American Tree Farm System
- 53,000 hours of service donated to ATFS (based on 2015 reporting)
- 6,286 inspections (initial, re-inspection, and optional) have been completed so far in 2016
- 641 ATFS Inspectors have been trained in 2016
- 3 ATFS Inspectors who completed more inspections in 2016 than anyone else: Michael Swint (AR), Tom Witkowski (MN), Pete Mastenbroek (OR)
We understand and appreciate that the greatest gift of all is time and passion. Thank you for all of your continued support! On behalf of the ATFS staff we wish you and yours a very Happy Holidays!
