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The University of Arkansas at Monticello is on a serious winning streak: First a new forest business center, then breaking ground on a new forest health center, and now, its students are winning contests with axes and saws.
Members of the UAM Forestry Club not only brought home three victories from the 2025 Southern Forestry Conclave, but also a wealth of unforgettable experiences.
The Southern Forestry Conclave, an annual competition among students from the Association of Southern Forestry Clubs, features a variety of physical and technical events that foster spirited competition and professional development. This year it was held in Huntsville, Alabama.
Thirteen students made the trip with their adviser, Laura Sims, director of the Arkansas Forest Health Research Center and associate professor of forest health for UAM and the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.
Event Success
The UAM Forestry Club secured three first-place victories at this year’s event:
Since its establishment in 1958, Conclave has been an invaluable opportunity for students to sharpen their skills in timber sports and forestry technical skills, engage in friendly rivalry, and connect with like-minded peers who share a passion for forestry and natural resources. The 2025 Conclave set the stage for another year of skill-building, teamwork, and networking opportunities.
“Conclave in Alabama was an incredible experience that allowed the entire club to meet with others from forestry schools across the region, and our competitors were able to gain hands-on competition experience,” said Tanner, the winning axe thrower and president of the UAM Forestry Club. “It was an awesome time where we improved skills, made new friends, and caught up with old ones. We were also able to network with companies like Weyerhaeuser and Rayonier.”
Beyond the competition, the Conclave provides an invaluable platform for students to bond over their shared passion for forestry and natural resources. By competing together and supporting one another, participants strengthen their sense of community while preparing for future careers in the field.
“The UAM Forestry Club’s passion, dedication and commitment to forestry shown at conclave was truly inspiring,” said Sims. “They represented our club with excellence, engaged in meaningful discussions and showcased their knowledge and teamwork. Watching their growth as a club this year gives me confidence in their ability to host another outstanding Conclave next year. We have already started planning for it.”
Looking ahead, the UAM Forestry Club is excited to host the 2026 Southern Forestry Conclave tentatively scheduled for March 19-21, 2026. The event will welcome more than 250 competitors from across the region to Monticello for another exciting year of competition and camaraderie.
For more information about the UAM Forestry Club or to get involved with the 2026 Conclave hosted by UAM, reach out to the club adviser at simsl@uamont.edu or 870-460-1449.
