Introduction
In the heart of America’s forests, where towering hardwoods and whispering softwoods tell stories of resilience and growth, Sierra Giraud stands as a passionate advocate for sustainable stewardship. Recognized as one of the #AFFWomen by the American Forest Foundation (AFF), Sierra’s journey as a forester and senior forestry manager in the Northeast for AFF’s Family Forest Carbon Program is a testament to dedication, innovation, and a deep-rooted connection to nature. Her work not only supports landowners in managing their forests sustainably but also amplifies the critical role of women in shaping the future of conservation. This article explores Sierra Giraud’s inspiring career, her contributions to forestry, the significance of her recognition as an #AFFWomen, and the broader impact of women in environmental stewardship.
The Roots of a Forester
Sierra Giraud’s love for the outdoors was cultivated early in life, deeply influenced by her family’s connection to the wilderness. Growing up in various regions of New York State, Sierra’s childhood was marked by time spent at a lakeside camp in the Adirondack wilderness, a place she describes as having “a boot in the woods.” This early exposure to nature fostered a profound appreciation for forests, shaping her career path and personal ethos. As she reflects, “I’ve always had a strong connection to the outside world, most specifically the forests”.
Her family’s legacy of working in the woods further fueled her passion. Forestry, for Sierra, was not just a profession but a continuation of a familial tradition of engaging with and caring for the land. This personal connection drove her to pursue a career where she could advocate for trees and forests, embodying the spirit of Dr. Seuss’s Lorax, who famously declared, “I speak for the trees.” Sierra’s journey into forestry began with her education at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF), where she honed her skills and deepened her understanding of sustainable forest management.
Professional Journey: From Intern to Leader
Sierra’s career in forestry is marked by a progression from hands-on fieldwork to strategic leadership. She began as a Lands and Forests Intern at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), where she gained practical experience in the Bureau of Private Lands Services. This role allowed her to work directly with landowners, learning the intricacies of forest management and the importance of informed stewardship.
Her passion and expertise led her to Weyerhaeuser, a leading timberland management company, where she currently serves as a forester in the Northern Hardwoods region across New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. At Weyerhaeuser, Sierra manages vast tracts of timberland, ensuring sustainable practices that balance ecological health with economic viability. Her work involves assessing tree and plant life, delineating protection areas for ecologically significant sites, and implementing silviculture treatments to promote forest health. She finds joy in the uniqueness of each forest, noting, “I love that each forest is unique, and you only find its secrets by walking through it yourself”.
Sierra’s role at the American Forest Foundation as a senior forestry manager in the Northeast for the Family Forest Carbon Program represents a pinnacle of her career. This innovative program engages family forest owners in carbon markets, enabling them to earn income by adopting sustainable practices that sequester carbon and enhance forest health. Sierra’s work with AFF involves collaborating with landowners to implement climate-smart forestry practices, contributing to broader environmental goals like carbon sequestration and biodiversity preservation.
#AFFWomen: Celebrating Women in Forestry
In March 2023, the American Forest Foundation highlighted Sierra Giraud as part of its #AFFWomen series during Women’s History Month, recognizing her as a trailblazer in forestry. The #AFFWomen initiative celebrates women who work tirelessly to improve forests, support landowners, and benefit communities, all while advancing the goal of leaving the planet healthier than they found it. Sierra’s inclusion in this series underscores her significant contributions and the importance of gender diversity in a traditionally male-dominated field.
As an #AFFWomen honoree, Sierra emphasizes the unique perspectives women bring to conservation. “Women are innately more empathetic and can determine and place values on characteristics that may not be noticeable at first,” she notes. This empathy allows women to approach forest management with a holistic perspective, considering ecological, social, and cultural factors. Sierra’s advocacy for increased representation of women in forestry highlights the need for fresh ideas and energy to address complex challenges like climate change and habitat loss.
The Role of Women in Forestry
The forestry sector has historically been male-dominated, but women like Sierra Giraud are breaking barriers and reshaping the field. According to the AFF, more women are entering forest-related careers, bringing innovative approaches and a commitment to sustainability. Women’s contributions are vital in areas like conservation, where empathy and collaboration can lead to more inclusive and effective solutions. Sierra’s work exemplifies this shift, as she combines technical expertise with a passion for community engagement and environmental stewardship.
Women in forestry face unique challenges, including overcoming stereotypes and navigating physically demanding fieldwork. However, their presence is transforming the industry. Sierra’s story, alongside other #AFFWomen like Tatiana Height and Jasmine Brown, illustrates the diverse backgrounds and shared commitment of women in conservation. Their collective efforts are driving progress in sustainable forestry, climate resilience, and community support, proving that gender diversity strengthens environmental outcomes.
Sierra’s Contributions to Sustainable Forestry
Sierra Giraud’s work with the Family Forest Carbon Program is a cornerstone of her impact. This program empowers family forest owners—often small-scale landowners with 10 to 1,000 acres—to participate in carbon markets. By adopting practices like extended harvest rotations or improved forest management, landowners can sequester more carbon, earning credits that provide financial incentives. Sierra’s role involves guiding landowners through this process, ensuring they understand the ecological and economic benefits of sustainable practices.
Her work extends beyond carbon sequestration. Sierra is an advocate for informed stewardship, helping landowners protect ecologically significant areas, such as wetlands or rare habitats, and implement silviculture treatments that enhance forest health. Her ability to connect with landowners and translate complex concepts into actionable plans has made her a trusted partner in the Northeast.
Sierra’s video profile, “Launching a Career in New Hampshire’s Northern Forest,” produced by North Country Calling, offers a glimpse into her daily work. In the video, she walks through a forest, sharing her passion for the interconnectedness of hardwoods, softwoods, and the landscape’s history. Her enthusiasm is infectious, inspiring others to consider careers in forestry and highlighting the joy of working in nature.
The Broader Impact of the Family Forest Carbon Program
The Family Forest Carbon Program, where Sierra plays a pivotal role, is a game-changer in conservation. Family-owned forests account for a significant portion of U.S. forestland, particularly in the Northeast, where small parcels are common. These forests are critical for carbon storage, biodiversity, and water quality, but many owners lack the resources or knowledge to manage them sustainably. The program bridges this gap by providing technical support, financial incentives, and market access.
By participating in the program, landowners can maintain their forests while contributing to climate goals. Sierra’s expertise ensures that these efforts are grounded in science and tailored to each forest’s unique characteristics. Her work helps mitigate climate change, supports rural economies, and preserves the ecological integrity of forests for future generations.
Challenges and Opportunities in Forestry
Forestry is not without its challenges, from climate change and invasive species to economic pressures and land-use conflicts. Sierra’s work addresses these issues head-on, promoting practices that enhance forest resilience. For example, her silviculture treatments focus on long-term health, ensuring forests can withstand pests, diseases, and changing climate conditions.
One significant challenge is engaging landowners who may be skeptical of carbon programs or sustainable practices. Sierra’s empathetic approach and ability to build trust are key to overcoming these barriers. She listens to landowners’ needs, explains the benefits of participation, and provides practical solutions, making her an effective ambassador for conservation.
Opportunities in forestry are vast, particularly as society prioritizes climate solutions. Programs like the Family Forest Carbon Program demonstrate how private landowners can contribute to global efforts. Sierra’s role in this movement positions her as a leader in a field ripe for innovation, where technology, policy, and community engagement intersect.
Sierra’s Personal Philosophy and Inspiration
Sierra’s philosophy is deeply rooted in her connection to nature and her commitment to advocacy. She finds inspiration in the forests themselves, describing the joy of “congratulating a tree on a successful life when reaching financial maturity” or uncovering a forest’s secrets through exploration. Her reference to the Lorax reflects her mission to speak for the trees, advocating for their protection and sustainable management.
Her personal background also shapes her approach. Growing up in New York and later living in Camillus, NY, as well as Lancaster and Colebrook, NH, Sierra has experienced diverse landscapes and communities. These experiences inform her understanding of the cultural and ecological significance of forests, making her a relatable and effective communicator.
The Importance of Representation
Sierra’s recognition as an #AFFWomen highlights the need for greater representation in forestry. Women bring unique perspectives, such as empathy and collaboration, that enhance decision-making and innovation. Sierra notes that women can identify values in forests that might be overlooked, such as cultural or ecological significance, fostering more holistic conservation strategies.
Increasing women’s participation in forestry also inspires the next generation. Sierra’s visibility as a forester and #AFFWomen honoree serves as a role model for young women considering careers in environmental fields. Her story, shared through platforms like North Country Calling, encourages others to pursue their passion for nature and make a difference.
Tips for Aspiring Foresters
For those inspired by Sierra’s journey, here are some tips to succeed in forestry:
- Get Outdoors: Spend time in forests to understand their ecosystems and build a personal connection to the land.
- Pursue Education: Study forestry, environmental science, or a related field at institutions like SUNY ESF to gain technical expertise.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Internships, like Sierra’s at NYS DEC, provide practical skills and industry connections.
- Engage with Communities: Build relationships with landowners and stakeholders to promote sustainable practices.
- Advocate for Diversity: Support initiatives that increase representation of women and underrepresented groups in forestry.
- Stay Curious: Each forest is unique, so approach your work with a willingness to learn and adapt.
The Future of Forestry and Sierra’s Role
As the world grapples with climate change, forestry will play a critical role in mitigation and adaptation. Sierra Giraud is at the forefront of this movement, leveraging her expertise to advance sustainable practices and empower landowners. Her work with the Family Forest Carbon Program is just the beginning, as she continues to explore innovative solutions and advocate for forest health.
Looking ahead, Sierra’s influence will likely grow as she inspires others to join the field. Her recognition as an #AFFWomen amplifies her voice, encouraging more women to enter forestry and contribute to conservation. As she continues her career, Sierra’s legacy will be defined not only by the forests she helps protect but also by the people she inspires to carry the torch of stewardship.
Conclusion
Sierra Giraud’s journey as a forester, advocate, and #AFFWomen honoree is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on the environment and their community. From her childhood in the Adirondacks to her leadership in the Family Forest Carbon Program, Sierra embodies the spirit of sustainable stewardship and the importance of women’s voices in conservation. Her work with the American Forest Foundation and Weyerhaeuser is transforming forests in the Northeast, supporting landowners, and combating climate change. As an #AFFWomen, Sierra inspires us all to speak for the trees, embrace diversity, and work toward a healthier planet. Her story is a call to action—whether you’re a landowner, a budding forester, or simply someone who loves the woods—to engage with nature and make a difference, one tree at a time.
