Creating Healthy Forests in the Catskills since 1982

The Catskill Forest Association was incorporated in Arkville, New York, on November 17, 1982. The Association was formed for the purpose of promoting knowledge and understanding of forest ecology and economics; to promote long-term forest management; to educate the public and enhance the economy of the Catskill region; to demonstrate economically feasible and environmentally sound forest practices: to serve as a source of information about forest management; to serve private landowner rights; and to identify and manage private forest lands dedicated to the demonstration and practices of high standards of forestry. The Association receives the majority of its operating funds through private grants, workshops, membership dues and contributions.

Covering a six-county region in Central New York State, the Catskill Forest Association works to protect the health and well being of the forests in our region, which benefits the trees, of course, but all of the flora, fauna, and families living and vacationing here, too.

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Growing Benefits From Trees

Just as gardens flourish from regular upkeep, forests benefit, too, from being thinned out. Careful trimming, pruning, and clearing of overcrowded woods, gives trees the sunlight they need to grow healthy and strong. It’s also important to know when it’s time to start forests over by making very intensive harvests. The Catskill Forest Association helps landowners learn how to renew and regenerate forests to “grow benefits,” meaning healthier environments, more diverse habitats for critters, prettier open spaces, and better filters for water and air impurities, such as carbon.

It’s our responsibility to steward the land for future generations—of humans and critters, alike. If you want to help the Catskill Forest Association in this effort, please contact us.

To receive a copy of our most current financial statement (Form 990), please send your request to CFA at [email protected].

Our Team

Ryan Trapani
Director of Forest Services
Ryan was hired as CFA’s Director of Forest Services in March 2017. Ryan had been Education Forester at CFA for the previous ten years. In addition to his duties as Director of Forest Services, he also oversees the day-to-day activities at CFA. He is involved in the creation, administration, and marketing of the Catskill Forest Association’s programs and events. Ryan researches forest-related topics and writes articles for publications such as The Shawangunk Journal, Kaatskill Life, Catskill Mountain News, The Walton Reporter, and CFA News. In addition, he handles the broadcast of CFA’s radio show “From The Forest” on WIOX Roxbury 91.3 FM.
Ryan earned his Associate Degree in Applied Science in Forest Technology from the New York State Ranger School and his Bachelor of Science Degree in Forest Resources Management from the SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry in Syracuse, NY. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves in June of 1999 and received an honorable discharge in 2005. Prior to being hired by Catskill Forest Association in 2007, Ryan worked at the DEC, the US Forest Service, and Frost Valley YMCA.
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Zane Lawyer
Forest Program Manager
Zane was hired full-time June 2020 as a Forest Program Technician. He later changed roles as the Education Arborist. He became the Forest Program Manager in December of 2024 where he oversees, develops, and carries out CFA’s Programs & Services. Zane also helps in the development and creation of written content for CFA programs, events, and newsletter. Zane is an ISA Certified Arborist and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Forest Health with minors in Applied Statistics and Environmental Writing and Philosophy in May of 2016 from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry.
John Unverzagt
Education Arborist
John was hired full-time as CFA’s Education Arborist in January 2025. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources Management in May 2023 from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. He assists in the development, implementation, and marketing of CFA’s program and events.
Giovanna D’Angelo
Education Forester
Giovanna was hired full-time as CFA’s Education Forester in December 2024. She earned her Associates of Applied Science in Environmental and Natural Resources from The New York State Ranger School of SUNY ESF in May 2024. She assists in the development, implementation, and marketing of CFA’s programs and events. She additionally creates written content for the CFA newsletter and weekly email blast. She strives to foster reconnection with our lands through education of the public to promote land stewardship.
Kathy Fox
Financial Manager
Kathy joined the CFA team in December of 2015 as the Office Manager and was then promoted to Financial Manager. She handles the financial management for the organization along with providing support to their Board of Directors. She also oversees the administrative management of the office. When she’s not in the office she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Cindy Buerge
Administrative Assistant
Cindy was hired in January of 2025 to serve as our Administrative Assistant. She is currently handling our membership services as well. Cindy is a lifelong resident of the Catskill Mountains and graduated from Roxbury Central School in 2003. Cindy brings over 20 years of customer service and member relations experience to the team.
Amy McCann
Office Manager
Amy has lived in eastern Delaware County her entire life. She has worked in customer service for 30-plus years. When not working she loves gardening with her husband and traveling as much as she can.