PFA's 140th Annual Symposium
The Pennsylvania Forestry Association (PFA) celebrated 140 Years of Stewardship at its Annual Symposium and Awards Celebration on November 7, 2026, at The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center. More than 150 attendees gathered to celebrate PFA’s conservation legacy, hear keynote speaker Ethan Tapper, acclaimed forester and author, and recognize exceptional contributions to Pennsylvania’s forests.
2026 PFA AWARD RECIPIENTS
Mira Lloyd Dock Award — Cindy Adams Dunn, Secretary of DCNR. Recognized for her commitment to conservation, environmental education, and public service. Like pioneering conservationist Mira Lloyd Dock, Secretary Dunn has championed protection of natural resources alongside public understanding and appreciation of Pennsylvania’s forests and public lands.
Sandy Cochran Award — Alex Storm, Penn State Mont Alto. Honored for excellence in natural resources education and preparing future forestry professionals. Drawing on experience in his family’s sawmill business, Storm connects hands-on forestry with teaching, leads the woodsmen’s team, encourages student engagement in forestry organizations, and has helped sustain the forestry program through its transition to Penn State Altoona.
Rothrock Award — Jack Stefferud. Recognized for nearly four decades in land conservation. Through Natural Lands, he has helped protect nearly 9,000 acres across more than 160 projects. Since 2015, he has helped add more than 1,600 acres to the William Penn State Forest District, expanding public access to protected forests in southeastern Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Tree Farmer of the Year — Stephen Zuk, Pottsville. Honored for sustainable woodland management and wildlife conservation. Zuk has improved forest health and oak regeneration while protecting a vital wildlife corridor along Second Mountain. A conservation easement held by Berks Nature, together with his plans to transfer the property to the organization, reflects his commitment to lasting protection. Zuk will also host a Pennsylvania Tree Farmer of the Year tour during the coming year, offering an opportunity to learn from his stewardship practices firsthand.
A LEGACY OF STEWARDSHIP
Founded in 1886, PFA connects woodland owners, forestry professionals, educators, industry, government, and conservation advocates in caring for Penn’s Woods. PFA presents these awards annually to honor leadership and service in forest conservation, education, and stewardship. Learn more about the awards, programs, and membership at www.paforestry.org.