About us
Forest extension covers activities of state administration directed towards supporting private forestry that go beyond just advising them. The network of forest extension organisations in Europe (FOREXT) ensures international cooperation in the field.
Brief history
The European Network of Forest Extension Organisations (FOREXT) was founded in 2019, building on two years of collaborative groundwork that began in 2017.
Since then, FOREXT has grown into an active community of practitioners dedicated to strengthening the organisations that support private forest owners across Europe.
FOREXT today
Our work focuses on building capacity where it matters most, from training and education to forest inventorying, management planning, and the sustainable sale of timber.
We support our members in navigating forest legislation, accessing subsidies, and developing their associations so they can better serve the private forest owners who depend on them.
FOREXT on the ground
Once a year, the network gathers to share knowledge, exchange experiences, and shape the future of forest extension in Europe.
From Bonn to Helsinki, Oslo to Prague, and from Uppsala to Zvolen, these meetings reflect both the geographic reach and the growing momentum of our community.
Timeline
Planning
Official launch
Meeting in Bonn, Germany and in Bilbao, Spain
Meeting in Montpellier, France and Helsinki, Finland
Online
Meeting in Oslo, Norway and Carlow, Ireland
Meeting in Prague, Czech Republic (joined by new members and observers) and Lugo, Spain.
Meeting in Uppsala, Sweden and Zvolen, Slovakia
Meeting in Kaunas, Lithuania
Meeting in Alice Holt, UK
Impact
From training and education to forest management planning, legislation, and the sustainable sale of timber, our network builds the capacity of organisations that serve private forest owners every day.
Beyond twice-yearly in-person meetings, members stay connected through FOREXT Fridays – regular webinars where the network explores topics of shared interest and exchanges practical knowledge.
FOREXT and its members are also active in European research and innovation, contributing as project partners, associate partners, and members of advisory groups.
Projects
Current and past projects include SUPERB, HoliSoils, EUFORE, and ForestPaths. Our members also form the core of the FORADVISE project.