The Duke Forest Teaching and Research Laboratory, established in 1931, currently spans over 7,100 acres across three counties in NC, USA. The mission of the Duke Forest is to facilitate research that addresses fundamental and applied questions across a variety of disciplines and to aid in the instruction of all students in their pursuit of knowledge, especially regarding the stewardship of our natural resources. To this purpose, the Duke Forest offers a land base and professional staff support to serve as “an outdoor classroom” and “a living laboratory.”
Management of the Duke Forest is guided by a comprehensive plan that promotes the Forest’s academic mission while ensuring the protection of its natural resources. It is certified by Preferred by Nature to Forest Stewardship Council® guidelines, a strict set of environmental, social, and economic standards. Services provided by the Duke Forest and its staff are summarized by the following management priorities and further informed by the 2017 – 2022 Duke Forest Strategic Plan:
– Promote the research and teaching mission
– Sustainably manage natural resources
– Protect unique biodiversity and historical elements
– Provide education and outreach
– Offer recreational and aesthetic amenities
A summary of annual statistics and updates on strategic projects are provided annually in the Duke Forest LOG and presented during the Duke Forest Annual Gathering.
- Year Founded
- 1931
- Year Joined OBFS
- 2023
- Size of Field Station (hectares)
- 1001-2500
- FSML Web Address
- https://dukeforest.duke.edu/
- Private nonprofit organization?
- Yes
- Universities affiliated / Parent Organization
- Duke University
- Federal, state, or local governmental partners?
-
No
- Member of the Virtual Field
- No