Woody Biomass and Forest Products

We are thrilled to introduce our new Woody Biomass and Forest Products Advisor, Mohammadali Azadfar! Hailing from northern Iran near the Hyrcanian forests, Ali brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in sustainable forest management and woody biomass utilization. Growing up surrounded by the rich and unique biodiversity of the Hyrcanian forests, he developed a deep appreciation for the vital role forests play in maintaining ecological balance. These ancient forests, home to more than 80 types of trees and rare plant species, are a global treasure, inspiring Ali's lifelong commitment to forest stewardship.

"The Hyrcanian forests were not just home to countless plant and animal species, but also a source of livelihoods for local communities. I saw firsthand how forest degradation could affect both the environment and the people who depend on it," Ali recalls. This early experience inspired him to pursue a career in natural resource. “The moment I saw how utilizing old corrugated container waste for paper production could reduce the need for deforestation was a pivotal turning point in my career,” Ali recalls. “It showed me the power of innovative, sustainable solutions in protecting our natural resources while still meeting industrial needs.”

Ali earned a Bachelor and Master’s in natural resources engineering with a focus on wood science and engineering in Iran, followed by a Ph.D. in biological and agricultural engineering, specializing in bioenergy and bioproducts at Washington State University, Pullman, WA. A postdoctoral fellowship at the Composite Materials and Engineering Center at Washington State University further honed his expertise in forest biomaterials, particularly in sustainable woody biomass utilization.

As the UC Cooperative Extension Woody Biomass and Forest Products Advisor, Ali is eager to lead initiatives that will promote the sustainable use of forest resources and enhance forest resilience. Through cutting-edge research and community collaboration, he aims to develop innovative strategies for managing woody biomass, mitigating wildfire risks, and supporting the economic vitality of local communities. “I believe the key to effective forest management lies in empowering the community with knowledge and sustainable practices. Whether it’s developing new methods for woody biomass utilization or supporting fuel reduction projects, my goal is to work hand-in-hand with local stakeholders,” Ali says.

He looks forward to working closely with forestland owners, rural communities, and local organizations to craft science-based solutions that protect both the forests and the livelihoods that depend on them. Key focus areas will include supporting fuel reduction projects, enhancing community education on forest management, and advancing woody biomass utilization and forest products.

Please feel free to reach out to him via email at mazadfar@ucanr.edu, by calling the UCCE Siskiyou extension office at (530) 842-2711, or by stopping by the office located at 1655 South Main Street in Yreka. Ali sates, “I am excited to connect with you and explore how we can achieve shared goals in sustainable forest management!”

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