Pitkin Nursery
Nurturing tomorrow’s forests, one seedling at a time
The Franklin H. Pitkin Forest Nursery, part of the University of Idaho's Center for Forest Nursery and Seedling Research (CFNSR), is a fully operational production container nursery that produces nearly 500,000 seedlings annually, including over 70 species of conifers, hardwoods and shrubs. Serving as a hands-on teaching facility, student employees learn all aspects of nursery production and management while gaining an in-depth understanding of seedling selection for restoration, reforestation and conservation.
As part of the CFNSR, the nursery highlights the core mission of a land-grant university: teaching, research and service. The center also operates the Seedling Quality Assessment Laboratory and is recognized globally as a leader in native plant regeneration education and research.
The nursery is a proud member of the Idaho Nursery and Landscape Association and the Inland Empire Christmas Tree Association. It collaborates with Idaho's private nursery owners through an advisory committee, sharing research findings and keeping stakeholders informed.
Our people
Andrew Nelson, Ph.D.
Director and Tom A. Alberg and Judith Beck Endowed Chair of Native Plant Regeneration
208-885-1004
Email Andrew Nelson
Adam Hackbarth
Nursery production associate
208-885-1261
Email Adam Hackbarth
Chelsea Hagel
Administrative specialist I
208-885-3888
Email Chelsea Hagel
Matthan Hale
Nursery management specialist
208-885-3512
Email Matthan Hale
Lori Mackey
Research specialist
208-885-8720
Email Lori Mackey
Research at Center for Forest Nursery and Seedling Research
Research at the CFNSR has benefited regional nurseries, foresters and researchers through the effective application of results into practice, with the focus to improve forest tree seedling quality and plantation establishment success. Current and future research covers a broad set of topics ranging from basic science to applied problem solving, recognizing the dynamic nature of forestry and the importance of restoration and range management.
The research program at CFNSR examines native plant regeneration in a changing climate; in particular, developing a broader understanding of tolerance ranges of plants to environmental extremes, such as cold and hot temperatures, and to the quantity and timing of moisture availability. The success of current restoration/revegetation practices, as well as the likelihood of natural reestablishment, becomes less predictable when soil moisture is depleted and replenished differently from the pattern at which those plants established and/or evolved. The CFNSR program is uniquely positioned to answer some of these questions, particularly as they relate to management.
Pitkin Advisory Board Committee
The Franklin H. Pitkin Forest Nursery stands out as a key strength of the College of Natural Resources, offering an operational nursery for student training, research and public service. Known regionally and nationally for its high-quality seedlings, trained graduates and impactful research, the nursery serves as a living laboratory for innovation, aligning with University of Idaho's mission of teaching, research and outreach.
The Pitkin Advisory Board Committee ensures stakeholder representation, allowing members to offer guidance that enhances the program's excellence, relevance and service while fostering strong industry support.
Committee responsibilities are to:
- Assist the nursery in identifying needs and developing programs that attain excellence and maintain relevance.
- Inform the nursery of emerging resource problems, needs and situations that can be addressed within the framework of the college’s mission.
- Understand the nursery activities, problems and operations and advise the college on their implementation and resolution.
- Promote communication, understanding and support for nursery programs among stakeholder groups.
- Advocate, identify and support funding, internships and jobs to support nursery teaching and research.
- Maintain open communication among stakeholder groups.
For a full listing of committee members, please download the policy statement.
Make a gift
Help support critical research and innovation in forest health, restoration and conservation by donating to the Pitkin Nursery. Your donation directly contributes to the development of sustainable forest management practices, supports local ecosystems and helps train future leaders in forestry and environmental sciences. By giving, you ensure that vital research continues and forests thrive for generations to come.