The mcintire stennis program at virginia state university is moving in a new direction, in which the funds will help support research in a newly developed urban forestry impact center (UFIC)

UFIC aims to conduct critical state forestry research focusing on urban forest ecosystems by serving as a dedicated research hub, contributing innovative solutions to urban and rural forestry challenges while also fostering environmental stewardship and economic growth. The primary goal of this project is to advance state forestry research through the urban forestry impact center by addressing key research areas and developing innovative solutions for urban and rural forestry management. Specific objectives include: (1) investigate sustainable harvesting techniques for non-timber forest products such as mushrooms, medicinal plants, and herbs in urban and peri-urban forest areas; (2) conduct comprehensive urban canopy assessments to identify gaps in tree coverage, particularly in underserved areas that suffer from heat island effects; (3) study the vulnerabilities of urban forests to pests, diseases, and fire, and develop protection strategies that increase the resilience of urban forest ecosystems; (4) explore market opportunities for urban forest products, including non-timber resources (e.g., fruit trees, medicinal plants), to create economic opportunities for small-scale, limited-resource farmers; and (5) investigate how youth and adults from underserved communities are trained in urban forestry practices and sustainable resource management, and prepared for forestry-related careers. Through these research efforts, the UFIC will produce actionable solutions to enhance urban forest health and resilience, promote economic development, improve community well-being, and prepare the next generation of forestry professionals from historically underserved communities.