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By Lynn Davis

John Munsell

BLACKSBURG, Va., October 26, 2007 -- John Munsell joins Virginia Tech's College of Natural Resources as an assistant professor and forest management Extension specialist.

“While at Virginia Tech, I hope to build on my experience by developing a consortium of statewide partners to establish diverse demonstration and research forests on sites ranging from reclaimed mine land to the urban landscape. I also hope to enhance forestland owner research at the college and develop Extension methods for reaching out to Virginia’s next-generation owners,” said Munsell.

Munsell received his master’s degree and Ph.D. in forest resources management from the State University of New York’s College of Environmental Science and Forestry. He earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from Tulane University.

Munsell’s research capitalizes on his dual interests in sociology and forestry by merging socio-psychological measurements and field forestry observations. His past projects include researching the use of Best Management Practices on non-industrial forests in New York City’s surface water supply system and comparing timber harvesting practices on non-industrial forests in New York and Mississippi.

In addition, Munsell served as the assistant program manager for New York City’s Model Forest Program. In this role, he designed and coordinated numerous forest management and water quality workshops for forestland owners, forestry practitioners, and interested citizens.

The College of Natural Resources at Virginia Tech consistently ranks among the top five programs of its kind in the nation. Faculty members stress both the technical and human elements of natural resources and instill in students a sense of stewardship and land-use ethics. Areas of studies include environmental resource management, fisheries and wildlife sciences, forestry, geospatial and environmental analysis, natural resource recreation, urban forestry, wood science and forest products, geography, and international development.

Contact Lynn Davis at davisl@vt.edu or (540) 231-6157.

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