The Southern Arizona Chapter of the Society of American Foresters brings together forestry professionals, students, and partners working across a landscape defined by desert mountain ranges, oak woodlands, and mixed conifer forests.
Our chapter provides opportunities to share expertise, strengthen professional connections, and promote sound, science-based management of the region’s unique ecosystems. Through meetings, educational programs, and field experiences, we support efforts to address pressing challenges such as wildfire risk, water scarcity, and habitat conservation—while highlighting the important role forests play in sustaining communities and natural resources in Southern Arizona.
Southern Arizona Chapter Video Postcards
Southern Arizona Chapter Leaders
Steve Plevel
Southern AZ Chair
Paul Sheppard
Secretary/Treasurer
Left: Paul Shepperd – Southwest Section Outstanding Service to Forestry Award 2024
Right: Bill Hart – 50 years of SAF membership award
While attending the 2026 SAF National Convention in Washington state, Mary Stuever, Eli Jensen, and Paul Sheppard made a special trip to Tumwater to see two American chestnut trees, both recognized as current national champion chestnuts.
