Subteams

Forestry Team Logo AURPI: Forestry Team
Students grouped around a drone pilot watching the drone fly
The forestry industry is a major economic driver for Alabama. Nationally, Alabama ranks third for commercial timberland and provides jobs for over 120,000 Alabamians. AURPI's Forestry Team is dedicated to furthering research in the forestry and trucking industry. To support this, customized John Deere forest operation simulators have been acquired to train operators in the safe and efficient use of harvesters, forwarders, wheeled feller bunchers, and skidders, while also introducing others to forestry career paths.
Recent Projects:
The Forestry Team's most immediate and enduring contribution in 2025 was the Safe Trucking Networks Study. This study is already influencing transportation planning and safety! Additionally, the PM2.5 Air Quality Study is also gaining traction, with increasing interest from mills seeking guidance and solutions based on preliminary findings.
Panel on stage at Water OT/IT Cyber Summit in Huntsville, Alabama
Forestry Team Logo Future Goals for Helping Rural Alabama:
Launch new scale studies to support Alabama's forestry and trucking industries.
Expand simulator-based research to better understand truck performance and operator decision-making.
Strengthen long-term benefits for the workers, landowners, and communities sustaining Alabama's forest economy.