SAF Organizational Structure

SAF contains different bodies including the SAF Council, House of Society Delegates, Forest Science and Technology Board, National Student Assembly, state societies, working groups, and the national office. Each body has its own unique role and responsibilities that fulfill the mission and Constitution and Bylaws of the Society. 

Volunteer Organizational Structure (VOS) Task Force Report
The objective of the VOS TF was to evaluate the effectiveness of the current organizational structure in meeting the mission and strategic direction of the Society of American Foresters. Council received the report Dec. 4, 2004. Council and SAF leadership will review the recommendations in 2005.

National Office
The national office manages SAF programs, member services, and supports grassroots units and SAF organizational bodies. Looking for a National Office Staff member? Check the staff list.

SAF Council
The SAF Council is the highest governing body in the Society of American Foresters. 

Voting District Map (PDF file)

Task Forces and National Committees
The Council establishes task forces to accomplish specific projects or studies. National committees are long term and carry out continuing Society activities.

House of Society Delegates
The House of Society Delegates is the grassroots organizational body comprised of a delegate and alternate delegate from each state society.

State Societies, Divisions, and Chapters
State Societies are geographical, constitutionals grassroots units of the Society which may be further divided into divisions and/or chapters and may include student chapters.

State Society Map(PDF file)

Forest Science and Technology Board
The Forest Science and Technology Board provides an effective means for the development, dissemination, and use of forest sciences.

Working Groups
Targeting distinct interests in six area specific forest science areas, Working Groups are the voice of current scientific thinking of their respective topics.

National Student Assembly
The National Student Assembly is the grassroots organizational body comprised of student members and student chapters.

SAF Organizational Structure Chart
This chart shows the relationship between the Society’s organizational bodies and the membership.