Senate 24

SENATE RESOLUTION 24

(By Senator Smith (Mr. President)

[Introduced January 30, 2026]

Congratulating Jeff and Jim Kochenderfer as West Virginia’s Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year.

Whereas, Jeff and Jim Kochenderfer have managed 223 acres of hardwood forestland since 1996, in Randolph and Tucker counties, between Elkins and Parsons, West Virginia; and

Whereas, The forestland was previously high-graded and harvested to a 12-inch stump diameter in 1979, and through dedicated effort the Kochenderfer’s restored and enhanced the property using sound, science-based forest management practices; and

Whereas, Jeff and Jim Kochenderfer reclaimed former skid trails, upgraded many into well-designed and maintained access roads, and implemented practices that protect soil stability, water quality, and long-term forest productivity; and

Whereas, Jeff and Jim Kochenderfer are professional foresters whose careers reflect a deep commitment to forestry excellence.  Jim is a retired Research Forester at the Fernow Experimental Forest in Parsons, and Jeff is employed as a Silviculturalist with the Monongahela National Forest; and

Whereas, The Kochenderfer Tree Farm is managed to promote sustainable forest management, wildlife habitat, and the protection of water resources, while serving as a living demonstration of responsible forestry in West Virginia; and

Whereas, Their management activities access road improvement, forest herbicide application, commercial timber harvesting, crop tree release, cull tree removal, and the instruction of woodland owners in the safe and effective use of herbicides; and

Whereas, Jeff and Jim Kochenderfer have generously hosted numerous woodland owner tours in cooperation with West Virginia University Extension, Society of American Foresters tours, and woodland herbicide demonstrations; and

Whereas, Their forest management efforts have been featured in magazine articles highlighting best practices in forestry and woodland stewardship; and

Whereas, The Kochenderfers are active members of the National Woodland Owners Association, the Society of American Foresters, the West Virginia Forestry Association, and the American Chestnut Foundation, further demonstrating their leadership and service to the forestry community; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby congratulates Jeff and Jim Kochenderfer as West Virginia’s Tree Farmers of the Year; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to Jeff and Jim Kohenderfer.