The College of Forestry research cooperatives at Oregon State University offer a proven model for collaborative, applied research that tackles complex forest management challenges and delivers real-world outcomes. With over 50 years of impact and participation from 107 private organizations and five government agencies, the cooperatives pool resources and expertise to address critical challenges in forestry and natural resource management.

Each of the 11 research cooperatives is led by a College of Forestry faculty director and is jointly governed and funded by its members. This unique structure promotes mutual investment and programmatic alignment, ensuring that the research is responsive, impactful and scalable. Cooperative members collaboratively co-develop research agendas. This ensures that research drives applied innovation for companies, agencies and communities. The cooperatives provide opportunities for hands-on experience and training for students, supporting workforce development. Designed to be agile, co-ops respond to emerging challenges and evolving needs while maintaining long-term impact. Knowledge sharing from these multi-year projects happens through member meetings, reports and site visits.

The College of Forestry research cooperatives serve as a model for how collaborative, place-based research can drive innovation, resilience and prosperity for Oregon and beyond.