Title: 1) Owner and Consulting Forester; 2) Professor and Department Head
Company: 1) Crestline Forestry Inc. and Piirto Farm Ltd.; 2) California Polytechnic State University
Location: Hobart, Wisconsin, United States
Douglas D. Piirto, PhD, owner and consulting forester at Crestline Forestry Inc., has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Business Owners for dedication, achievements and leadership in Forestry and Natural Resources Management.
Dr. Piirto has established a distinguished career in forestry and natural resources, marked by his expertise in the sustainable management of giant sequoia and coast redwood forests. As the owner and consulting forester at Crestline Forestry Inc. and Piirto Farm Ltd., he has demonstrated a profound commitment to the field. Through his organization based in Hobart, Wisconsin, Dr. Piirto provides clients with teaching, applied research and sustainable forest and land management advice.
Beginning his career as a research assistant at Colorado State University from 1970 to 1971 and the University of California, Berkeley, between 1972 and 1977, Dr. Piirto was a student at the time. Subsequently, he began a career in forestry as a forester and silviculturist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service at Sierra National Forest from 1977 to 1985. These roles laid the foundation for his extensive knowledge of natural resource management.
Dr. Piirto’s career in forestry has been further enriched by his experience in higher education. His journey began with his role as an associate professor within the natural resources management department at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo in 1985 before becoming a full professor in 1990, where he continues to impart his knowledge on students. Dr. Piirto also became the department head on campus in 2001. He also served as a part-time instructor at Reedley Community College in California
In addition to his academic roles, Dr. Piirto has contributed significantly as a researcher, consultant and expert witness in forestry research at the Institute Finnish Forest Research and the Seinajoki University of Applied Sciences since 2001. Previously, he served on the scientific advisory committee for the Giant Sequoia National Monument. Dr. Piirto’s involvement with the California Board of Forestry and Protection further underscored his dedication to advancing forestry practices.
Dr. Piirto’s academic achievements include a Bachelor of Science from the University of Nevada in 1970, a Master of Science from Colorado State University in 1971, and a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1977. His education was pivotal in honing his critical thinking, writing and oral communication skills, which have been crucial throughout his career. Besides his formal education, Dr. Piirto holds credentials as a registered professional forester in California and a certified silviculturist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service.
Active in his professional community, Dr. Piirto is a fellow of the Society of American Foresters. He also holds memberships in several other esteemed organizations, such as the Forest Products Research Society and the Society of Wood Science and Technology. As a seasoned scholar, Dr. Piirto’s contributions have extended to his published articles in science and forestry journals, reflecting his commitment to advancing knowledge within his field.
Throughout his career, Dr. Piirto has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Francis H. Raymond Award for Outstanding Career Achievement in Forestry from the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection in 2016. Earlier in his career, he received multiple Meritorious Performance and Professional Promise Awards from Cal Poly between 1989 and 2001, along with accolades for outstanding contributions to agriculture education.
Influenced by various mentors during his formative years, Dr. Piirto attributes much of his success to their guidance as well as the support he received from his family during challenging times. His Finnish heritage instilled a deep connection to nature, fueling his passion for forestry. As he continues to inspire future generations through teaching, Dr. Piirto hopes to be remembered as a critical thinker who significantly contributes to sustainable forestry practices.
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