The Duke Forest thrives through strong partnerships with groups across Duke University, our region, and the nation. By working together, we advance research and practice, promote environmental stewardship, and foster meaningful connections between people and nature—both within our boundaries and beyond. These collaborations are essential for advancing our mission, management, and strategy, as well as protecting the Forest for the use and benefits of current and future generations.
Duke University
The Duke Forest is a valuable educational resource for faculty, staff, and students across the university. By collaborating with departments and units, our team helps design and implement hands-on programs, research opportunities, and events that enrich learning, advance discovery, and strengthen Duke’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
Local/Regional/State Organizations and Agencies
The Duke Forest plays a vital role in protecting natural spaces and promoting environmental stewardship throughout the Triangle region. We work closely with local, regional, and state partners such as land trusts, conservation groups, and government agencies to safeguard ecological integrity, expand access to green space, and address shared environmental challenges.
- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
- North Carolina Natural Heritage Program
- North Carolina Bowhunters Association
- North Carolina Botanical Garden
- North Carolina Wildlife Corridor
- Triangle West Transportation Planning Organization
- Triangle Connectivity Collaborative
- Triangle Land Conservancy
- Eno River Association
- Carolina Biodiversity Collaborative
- Durham County Open Space and Real Estate Division
- Orange County Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks, and Recreation
National Organizations and Groups
Our partnerships with national organizations in forestry, conservation, and research expand the reach and impact of the Duke Forest. Through collaboration and active membership in professional networks, we contribute to national conversations, share best practices in land management, and help shape the future of working and protected forests across the country.
- Organization of Biological Field Stations
- Eastern Research Forest Managers Group
- Forest History Society

