This scholarship honors the memory of David Bischel. Dave was a graduate of UC Berkeley and a Registered Professional Forester. He started his career as a field forester and always maintained a passion for work in the woods. Later in his career, Dave would serve his profession as the Executive Officer for the Foresters Licensing Program and as the Executive Officer of the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. Dave became the President and CEO of the California Forestry Association in 1995 – a role he would hold for twenty-two years. During his career Dave was a staunch advocate for active forest management and promoted sound forest practices. Dave retired from Calforests in 2017 and on April 25, 2019 Dave passed away after losing a battle to cancer. To honor Dave Bischel’s contributions and commitment to the forestry sector, The Forest Foundation and the California Forestry Association are collaborating to provide the David A. Bischel Scholarship Program in his memory. This scholarship will be awarded to students who embody Dave’s zest for forestry and active management to promote sound forest principles.
Eligibility
Students who are entering their junior year, are seniors or are graduate students in a forestry program at UC Berkeley, CalPoly San Luis Obispo, or Humboldt State University are eligible to apply.
Description of Scholarship
One or more awards of at least $2,500 each will be made for the academic year beginning in the fall of 2020. Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, books, or enrollment in a related degree and accredited summer learning program.
Application Window
Applications for the 2024 season can be found on the California Forestry Association website. Click HERE for more information.
2023 Scholarship Winner Announcement
We received some great applications this year and the competition was tough. We wish all applicants the best as they navigate their educational path ahead. After reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and a lot of careful deliberation, we are proud to announce this year’s David A. Bischel Forestry Scholarship winners. Each awardee will receive $2,500 to be used to further their journey in the exciting field of forestry. See below for a little about each applicant.
