Mississippi Forestry Commission to Celebrate 100 Years of Protecting Mississippi’s Forests, Communities, and Natural Resources

PEARL, Miss. — The Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) will mark a major milestone in 2026 as the agency celebrates 100 years of service to the State of Mississippi, commemorating a century of protecting lives, property, and forest resources since its founding on March 6, 1926.

For the past century, the Mississippi Forestry Commission has played a vital role in safeguarding Mississippi’s approximately 19 million acres of forestland, supporting one of the state’s most important economic engines while protecting public safety and natural resources. From wildfire prevention and suppression to forest management assistance and landowner outreach, MFC’s mission has remained focused on serving the people of Mississippi.

“Forestry is more than trees—it’s about protecting communities, supporting rural economies, and ensuring Mississippi’s forests remain healthy and productive for generations,” said Russell Bozeman, Mississippi State Forester. “As we reflect on 100 years of service, we’re also looking ahead to the future, and the continued role forestry plays in our state’s success.”

The Mississippi Forestry Commission was created to provide leadership in forest protection and management. Over the decades, the agency has evolved to meet changing needs while maintaining its core responsibilities, including:

• Wildfire prevention and suppression, protecting lives, homes, and forestlands
• Forest health monitoring, addressing insects, diseases, and invasive threats
• Sustainable forest management assistance for private landowners
• Urban and community forestry support for cities and towns
• Managing Sixteenth Section Land, which provides over $9 million each year for Mississippi schools
• Community involvement, providing grants and equipment for Volunteer Fire Departments
• Forestry education and outreach, promoting responsible stewardship statewide

Today, forestry remains a cornerstone of Mississippi’s economy, particularly in rural communities, and the Mississippi Forestry Commission continues to provide essential services that support jobs, landowners, and local governments.

Throughout 2026, the Mississippi Forestry Commission will commemorate its centennial with a series of initiatives designed to honor its history, recognize the people behind the mission, and educate future generations about the importance of forestry.

“These centennial efforts are about more than celebrating an anniversary,” said Ken Martin, MFC Board of Commissioners Chairman. “They’re about telling the story of how forestry touches every Mississippian—whether through wildfire protection, clean water, wildlife habitat, or the products we rely on every day.”

As the Mississippi Forestry Commission enters its second century, the agency remains committed to its mission of protecting Mississippi’s forests and the people who depend on them. The centennial serves as an opportunity to reflect on a proud legacy of service while reaffirming the importance of forestry to the state’s economy, environment, and public safety.

Additional information about the Mississippi Forestry Commission’s centennial and planned activities will be announced throughout 2026.