Forest Release
Improving Safety, Productivity, and Sustainability of Forests in Former Conflict Areas
Forest Release is a non-profit humanitarian organization founded in 2023 in Maine, USA. Our core mission is promoting safety for forest managers and users of forests in former conflict zones, with the goal of promoting long-term forest productivity and sustainability.” The term “Forest Release” is connected to Humanitarian Mine Action “Land Release” where all reasonable effort is made to identify, define, and remove all presence and suspicion of explosive ordnance. Release is also a term used in the management of healthy and sustainable forests.
PROBLEM
Ukrainian foresters are charged with managing and protecting over 17 million acres of forests including territory formerly occupied by the RF, much of which is contaminated with landmines, unexploded ordnance and remnants of war. Forest managers are challenged by a shortage of firefighting gear, safety equipment and training. A changing climate combined with over-dense pine forests resulting from outdated management regimes are contributing to an increasing amount, severity and size of wildfires.
What we do
In collaboration with our partners, we collect donations of forest fire-safety equipment, fire-suppression gear, provide safety training, and promote advocacy and awareness for the needs of Ukrainian forest managers and users.
Who we are
Where we work
Board of Directors
Our Partners
Equipment
Training
"Approximately 30% of Ukraine's territory—174,000 sq. km—is contaminated with explosive objects, and over 2.4 million ha of forests are damaged."
Get Involved
Latest News
Executive Director, Dr. Brian Roth travelled to Ukraine in August and September to meet with our partners and beneficiaries and distribute donated safety gear.