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�鶹��’s forest industry has long been a pillar of the state’s rural economy. But in recent years, mill closures and shifting markets have put pressure on landowners, workers, and entire communities, particularly in south �鶹��. A recently approved $8.9 million will help chart a new path forward, creating more value from �鶹��’s abundant forest resources and expanding opportunities for the people and regions depending on them. 

�鶹�� Tech is pleased to partner with the on the approved $8.9 million �鶹�� Forestry Innovation Initiative included in Gov. Brian Kemp’s amended FY 2026 budget. This effort aims to transform low-value wood and mill byproducts into high-value materials, strengthening �鶹��’s forest-based economy and supporting new commercial opportunities across the state. The initiative will establish pilot facilities and accelerate technology to business transfer in partnership with industry, with the long-term goal of enabling multiple manufacturing sites across �鶹��.  

“We appreciate the state’s investment in helping move these innovations from the lab to �鶹�� businesses,” said , executive director of Tech’s (RBI). “We also acknowledge the critical support of industry collaborators and partners like the and .”&�Բ�����;

The work builds on collaborative interdisciplinary research at �鶹�� Tech involving Professors , and Meredith; Professor and Professor of the Practice ; and Professor . Gary Black, RBI program manager, has also contributed to this effort. It is led by RBI’s (ReWOOD.) The effort reflects years of cross-disciplinary collaboration among faculty and staff committed to advancing sustainable, wood-based technologies.