The southern forests of the U.S. are under increasing pressure to balance the economic, social, an ecological aspects of forest resources. Traditional cooperative research programs have been successful due in large part to a narrow technical focus and a stable funding base. As resource management becomes more complex, traditional funding sources shift, and new stakeholders emerge. This shift requires new approaches to support and conduct research that are essential for developing integrated forest management strategies that are environmentally sound, socially acceptable, and economically viable.

The imperative is clear: Meeting the demand for forest products and healthy forests will depend on increasing productivity and efficiencies while protecting the environment and sustainability of the forests. A recent report from the National research Council entitled "National Capacity in Forestry research" stated the forestry research sector is indeed at a crossroad. If left unchanged, its future will entail a steady erosion of intellectual and institutional capacity, and dwindling impact."

In response, a diverse group of university, non government organizations, Government, and industry representatives formulated a plan to bring change to this vital aspect of research. The Southern Forest Research Partnership, Inc. (SFRP) will coordinate research by attracting funding, private and public, and using those funds to support research and technology transfer that furthers the forest resources knowledge base for contemporary stakeholders whether they be owners, managers, or users. We face complex issues that cross property lines and political boundaries. The issues are beyond the scope of any one organization and require the focused attention of a team of scientist with diverse backgrounds and capabilities.