Introduction

The Cooperative States Research and Extension Education System has funded this conference as part of a national project to develop priorities for funding, development and delivery of cellulosic and woody biomass energy Cooperative Extension programs.

The conference participants will gather to identify, analyze and prioritize the gaps in extension programming for woody biomass use, development and management. The objective is to develop a strategy for programming that will be based on research on and evaluation of current woody biomass extension programs.

About MSU Forestry And Extension

Michigan State University (East Lansing, Michigan), a member of the Association of American Universities and one of the top 100 research universities in the world, was founded in 1855. We are an inclusive, academic community known for our traditionally strong academic disciplines and professional programs, and our liberal arts foundation. Our cross- and interdisciplinary enterprises connect the sciences, humanities, and professions in practical, sustainable, and innovative ways to address society’s rapidly changing needs.

MSU is well fitted to organize this conference with the Department of Forestry, a leader in the creation and dissemination of knowledge to promote stewardship of forests and through MSU Extension Forestry Area Of Expertise (AOE) Team, an organization of university and county extension staff working to help private landowners, industry, and communities improve the management and conservation of forest resources through education, outreach programs and research.