John Erixson has been named the
next state forester and director of the Nebraska Forest Service (NFS). Erixson had served as deputy director of the NFS for two years and
was promoted to state forester following a national search.
“I am proud of how well the Nebraska Forest Service serves Nebraska, and I know as director and state forester John will lead the Nebraska Forest Service to continue delivering the excellent programs and services that ensure the health of our forests and communities,” said Ron Yoder, associate vice chancellor for the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Prior to coming to NFS, Erixson, a Nebraska native, spent more than 20 years managing natural resources in Idaho for a private consulting firm before returning to Nebraska. Erixson holds a bachelors and masters of science in resource management from the University of Idaho. He is an active member of several regional and national organizations, including the Society of American Foresters and the Invasive Species Council.
“There is an impressive legacy of forest stewardship in Nebraska. To say I have big shoes to fill is a bit of an understatement,” said Erixson. “A large part of my role starts with serving Nebraskans and I am looking forward to giving back to my home state.”
Erixson assumes leadership of the Nebraska Forest Service at a challenging time. The emerald ash borer was discovered in Omaha in June of 2016 and will destroy most of Nebraska’s green ash trees as it spreads across the state. Questions or comments about the Nebraska Forest Service can be directed to Kyle Martens at 402-413-9248, kmartens3@unl.edu.