Maine TREE would like to congratulate Barrie Brusila, as she was recently announced as Society of American Forester’s (SAF) 2021 Presidential Field Forester for District 6. Barrie has operated Mid-Maine Forestry since 1983 and is a highly valued member of the Maine TREE Board who has dedicated extensive time and effort to ensure the success of many of Maine TREE’s programs.
Barrie was chosen as the recipient of this award due to her many years demonstrating excellence in the field application of forestry, her understanding of forest science and adaptive management processes, and her dedication to ensuring forest sustainability. Throughout her career, Barrie has served hundreds of landowner clients, worked tirelessly to promote conservation tools and connect forestry and land trust communities, and is always willing to help provide natural resource education.
Barrie is truly a trailblazer and an inspiration to many in the forestry field. Morten Moesswilde of the Maine Forest Service writes, “Barrie exemplifies in so many respects a dedicated practicing professional, one who participates thoughtfully in advancing the profession while serving her clients and her community. In the sometimes difficult and contentious conversations that have arisen over the years around forestry, she has consistently listened carefully to alternative views, spoken at all times respectfully, and addressed issues in a principled way, setting a high standard of compassion and ethical conduct.”
Director of the Maine Forest Service, Patty Cormier, also testifies to Barrie’s qualifications for this award, writing, “Barrie has been a great source of knowledge and support for myself, her clients, and other forestry professionals. She is a forester that never hesitates to help when asked to assist with or speak to educating landowners or kids on natural resource education, and she is always well received and asked back.”
“I’m very honored to receive this SAF award,” said Barrie. “At this point in my career, sharing knowledge and experience with young foresters is important to me. I’m encouraged by the increasing number of young women entering the profession. There’s a significant need for younger consultants since many of us are in the mature age classes without a lot of “regeneration” coming along.”
Please join Maine TREE in sending a hearty congratulations to Barrie on this well-deserved recognition of her excellence. Thank you, Barrie, for all of your hard work and your ceaseless dedication to stewarding Maine’s forests.
