Mission
Create value for its members by improving knowledge about forest plantations under different silvicultural management regimes, and by developing growth and yield systems and decision support tools that result in improved valuation of the plantation resource in a sustainable manner.
The portfolio of field-based studies installed by the PMRC is quite varied and extensive throughout the operating region of the Cooperative. Studies cover the geographic area comprised of the Atlantic Coast Flatwoods and Coastal Plain, Piedmont, South Atlantic Gulf Slope and West Gulf of the Carolinas, Georgia, Northern Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana and East Texas. All studies are designed to be analyzed on a region-wide basis to maximize the information available for use with the developed management tools. Several studies have been retired or passed on to other research interests while new studies are being designed to address questions important for future management options such as carbon sequestration and clonal planting management.
Several PMRC studies and developments are recognized as seminal in the forest management field. These range from the farsighted installation of field studies that push the biological limits of local species to previously unrealized levels, to the development of new flexible model forms that allow for predictions and projections of stands managed with intensive silvicultural treatments.
The operational philosophy of the PMRC differs significantly in some respects from other forestry cooperatives.
- 95% of all field related work is performed by UGA PMRC field crews including application of treatments, maintenance and measurements, thus relieving members of the requirements of these operations.
- Excellent support from the Warnell School of Forestry eliminates the necessity of faculty salary support from PMRC dues. All dues are used for the operational expenses of field work and analysis.
- Consistent, quality measurements by dedicated crews ensure the best available data for analysis.
- True region-wide analysis of study data ensures the widest applicability of the resulting management tools throughout the region.
An additional benefit of the large installed base of long-term studies is the ability to allow their use as research platforms for other studies funded through other sources. These “piggyback” studies increase the knowledge gained and available to the members without requiring direct financial support.
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History of Directors
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- Bronson Bullock | Director, 2023 – present | Co-Director, 2017 – 2023
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- Cristian Montes | Co-Director, 2017 – 2023
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- Mike Kane | Director, 2007 – 2017
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- Bruce Borders | Interim Director, 2005 – 2006
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- Barry Shiver | Director, 1995 – 2005
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- Jim Fortson | Director, 1983 – 1995
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- Jerry Clutter | Founding Director, 1975 – 1983
Celebrating 50 Years of Forestry Innovation (1975–2025)
The Plantation Management Research Cooperative (PMRC) is celebrating 50 years of advancing southern pine plantation management!
Since its founding in 1975, PMRC has been a leader in delivering science-based, practical solutions to support the sustainable management of forest resources across the southeastern U.S. Through decades of collaboration with industry, agencies, and academic partners, PMRC has provided its members with powerful tools and insights in forest biometrics, silviculture, and decision-making.
As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to supporting our members with cutting-edge research, robust decision support, and a collaborative network dedicated to the health and productivity of our forests.
