This initiative will support personnel costs, including the lead information technology administrative analyst and web developer, ensuring efficient implementation of florestadb

The University of Tennessee, through its UT AG Research Division, received a $152,485.88 Cooperative Agreement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Office of International Programs & Trade under the International Forestry Programs (CFDA 10.684) to develop and implement FlorestADB, a real-time wood species identification and tracking database. Awarded on September 9, 2025, with completion targeted for October 31, 2026, this initiative addresses illegal timber trade enforcement under the Lacey Act by creating a cloud-based platform accessible to forensic chemists and field officers. The system enables precise geographic tracking of wood samples, strengthens enforcement capabilities, and provides immediate access to sample records to enhance prosecution efforts while protecting legitimate U.S. wood industry interests from illicit competition.

Funding supports key personnel costs, including a Lead Information Technology Administrative Analyst and Web Developer essential for platform implementation and maintenance. The award also covers travel and registration expenses for project personnel to present FlorestADB at a law enforcement conference, facilitating knowledge transfer and adoption of this enforcement tool within the broader law enforcement and natural resource management communities.

By integrating a real-time wood catalog accessible to forensic chemists and field officers, this platform will enable precise geographic tracking, strengthening enforcement efforts. Its cloud-based storage will offer immediate access to sample records, enhancing prosecution capabilities and protecting legitimate united states wood industries from illicit competition. This award will also fund travel and registration fees for project personnel to present this tool at a law enforcement conference.