Celebrating the 2026 Forestry Immersion Program

2026 Forestry Immersion Program participants and educators.

The Forestry Immersion Program, a six-week summer forestry experience for high school students, hosted a celebration as students welcomed family, friends, and supporters to see what they accomplished throughout the program. Guests witnessed the many skills students developed through hands-on learning as they led demonstrations on chainsaw safety, tree identification, whittling, and camp life. These activities reflect the growth and independence students build throughout the experience. The students even prepared a camp lunch for all their visitors, including a staple from Maine’s logging-camp days: bean-hole beans. 

The program, a partnership between Brewer School Department and Maine TREE Foundation, provides students with an immersive experience where the forest becomes the classroom. For six weeks, participants camped together, exploring careers across the industry while building practical skills and strengthening their confidence. Each student has the opportunity to grow individually, with accomplishments that reflect their personal strengths and goals.

FIP participants demonstrate how to safely use a chainsaw.

For many students, this program is about much more than forestry. 

"I've made so many memories and had opportunities to expand my knowledge and grow as a great person in society," said one 2026 Forestry Immersion Program participant.

Another said, “I’ve learned to take pride in my work and to ask for help when you actually need it; don’t just say to yourself, I can do this. It’s okay to ask for help.”

Since its launch in 2023, the program has shown its impact extends far beyond introducing students to forestry careers. From academic gains to learning to swim, students leave with newfound confidence and improved communication and teamwork skills that open doors throughout Maine’s forest economy and beyond.

The program’s success is the result of countless hours of planning. Maine TREE staff and program educators collaborate to ensure a meaningful experience for each group of participants. 

"There’s a lot that goes into planning this program, between paperwork, meetings, and other items that pop up throughout the process. Every time I come here, see the students in this environment, and their personal growth, I’m reminded that it's all worth it," said Logan Johnson, Executive Director of the Maine TREE Foundation.

FIP participants demonstrate carpentry skills.

"It's not about creating future loggers; it's about teaching kids how to think, how to learn," said Mark Savage, Outdoor Education teacher at Brewer High School and the original visionary for the Forestry Immersion Program. 

This program is made possible by the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) Forest Economy Program, which focuses on developing the region's forest economy and workforce pipeline. On behalf of Maine TREE and the Forestry Immersion Program, thank you to the families, friends, and participants whose support makes this experience possible

Congratulations to this incredible group! Stay tuned as the Forestry Immersion Program continues to inspire the next generation of leaders, professionals, and community members.