California Tree Farmer of the Year 2006

Fred Landenberger has demonstrated a commitment and passion to promoting sustainable forestry for over 58 years.  Fred graduated with a Masters of Forestry degree from Colorado A& M (Colorado State University) in Ft. Collins, Colorado in 1949.  Over his career, he has worked for various forest industry associations and non-government forestry organizations dedicated to helping timberland owners manage and maintain productive and healthy forests throughout California and the nation.  He began working for the California Redwood Association promoting the use and production of redwood products in the 1950’s during which time he certified over 50 Tree Farms in the redwood region.  He served as Secretary/Manager of the Redwood Region Logging Conference from 1959 through 1970 following Dr. Emanuel Fritz, the founder of the conference.  Fred worked for the North Coast Timber Association (1963-1969) prior to becoming the Assistant Manager for the California Forest Protective Association (predecessor to the California Forest Association) from 1969-1988; protecting forest landowners’ right to continue to grow and produce forest products and educating public, legislative, and regulatory bodies about the virtues of sustainable forest practices.  During that time he also served on the Redwood Region Conservation Council, a public education and involvement program formed by the forest products industry.

Fred purchased 40 acres of cut-over redwood / Douglas fir timberland in 1961.  The property was originally logged in the 1920’s.  He conducted the first selection harvest in 1989 and, because of the stocking levels maintained and sustainable management methods applied, was able to harvest an equal volume of timber again in 2000.  Fred has promoted the virtues of being a Tree Farmer to other timberland owners and demonstrated that commitment on his own property that he has owned since purchasing it in 1961.  He has selectively harvested his property twice, while maintaining a well stocked redwood/Douglas fir natural forest.  His Tree Farm has been certified since 1986.

After retiring in 1988, Fred did not rest on his laurels; he continued to be involved in forestry and promoting tree farming.  He wrote a book, Gains and Losses: California forest Protective Association 1909-1988, about the history of the association and their role in promoting forestry in California.

Fred has certified over 60 Tree Farms over the years, in addition to serving at the National and State levels of the Tree Farm System.