Forest related research programs and science capacity in the Province are developed with themes outlined in the Provincial Sustainable Forest Management Strategy and other guiding documents. Strategic direction is focused under ecological, economic and social considerations within the overarching research integration framework.

Research themes under the ecological direction include forest disturbance, climate change, ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity and water. Economic themes are grouped under innovation, industry and markets; while social themes include forest based communities, aboriginal participation and forest values.

Within this logical framework, there is a hierarchical structure and a research philosophy which employs an adaptive management approach to assist in the integration of research and decision making.

Examples of projects include the Newfoundland and Labrador climate change transect, Newfoundland Marten responses to forest harvest, natural disturbance in Labrador, wireless sensor networks for real time monitoring, and variation in tree fibre characteristics by site. Priority areas include climate change and innovation.

Partnerships are encouraged with academia, industry and other research agencies. Forest managers and practitioners are also engaged in developing and implementing program areas and applied research.