Birthplace of American Forestry

Birthplace of American Forestry

George W Vanterbilt, following the recommendation of landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmsted, was the first American landowner to implement scientific forestry, the management and conservation of forest lands, on a large scale. He hired Girfford Pinchot, founder of The Society of American Foresters, to develop a management plan for the surrounding forest. Biltmore's forest management plan improved the health of the forest while producing sustainable wood resources.

The Biltmore Forest School (1898 - 1913), located nearby, was the country's first to provide professional training for foresters. Today, many American colleges and universities offer curricula in forestry and natural resource management.

Submitted by Rob Sweeney