We invite you to meet Larry Kotchman, CWSF Member and North Dakota State Forester.

What was your first position in the field of forestry?

An assistant area forester with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.  I was stationed at Appleton and Spooner, Wisconsin.

How long have you been in your role?

I have served as North Dakota State Forester for 30 years.  Carl Johnson, former Wyoming State Forester, holds the record at 34 years.

What do you enjoy most about being a CWSF member?

The opportunity to know and interact with an inspiring group of colleagues from throughout the west at our annual meetings.  Alice and I have developed close friendships with several state foresters and their spouses.

What do you see to be the emerging issues in your state?

Invasive tree pests including emerald ash borer, loss of windbreaks, wildfire, limited tree species diversity, and oil and gas development impacts.

What is your favorite outdoor activity?

Spending weekends with Alice at our family farm near Cavalier, ND, where I grew up.  Although my niece and nephew rent the cropland, I manage the woodlands including aspen, oak and pines. Walking the trails in the Fall is special.