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Join the conversation about the roots and growth of the science of silviculture in the US and discuss its future as the tool of choice for people who manage forests for diverse objectives. 

In 1903 at the first National Convention of the Society of American Foresters in Washington, D.C., President Theodore Roosevelt challenged our young profession to implement a vast program of practical forestry on a large scale, to ensure sustainable forests and the values they provide for a growing nation.  Over the ensuing century, the actions of a committed profession have enabled exactly that to occur by applying the art and science of silviculture – through enviable scientific advances in high-yield plantation silviculture, as well as the growing sophistication and complexity of silvicultural systems for natural forest ecosystems.

These advances have not been without controversy, as the profession and the public have debated both the objectives and the tactics of modern forestry. As we highlight silviculture as the central focus of contemporary forest management for diverse stewardship values, we recognize that its practice depends on all forest sciences, ranging from basic biology to human dimensions.

While we’re confident you’ll find the program and events of the 2013 convention engaging, don’t forget to schedule a bit of time to explore the region.  Centrally located within the Charleston area, the convention center campus makes visiting forests, plantations and gardens, and the downtown historic district a short, easy commute. All convention hotels offer free shuttle service anywhere within a 3-5-mile radius, which includes the Old Village of North Charleston, known as Park Circle, with its charming cluster of pubs, restaurants, and shops, as well as the Holy City Brewing tasting room.  The Embassy Suites offers shuttle service to the downtown historic district as well, for a small fee.

From cobblestone streets to serpentine waterways, the Charleston area lends itself to many forms of exploration.  The staging grounds for battles that shaped the American Revolution and Civil War, like Fort Moultrie and Fort Sumter, are now national parks.  Homes erected by plantation barons stand as examples of early American architecture and craftsmanship.  Etchings and paintings from the Charleston Renaissance, an especially fertile artistic era are housed at the Gibbes Museum of Art.  One of the best ways to experience the Lowcountry’s heart and soul is to be immersed in its authentic cuisine culture.  With a long list of savory regional favorites like shrimp and grits, She Crab soup, steamed oysters, fried green tomatoes, collard greens, buttermilk biscuits, pimiento cheese and much more, dining out is sure to be a highlight of your visit.