Forest Growers Research Ltd (FGR) is delighted to welcome Carol Rolando to the team as Portfolio Lead for the Precision Silviculture Partnership Programme, effective August 2026.

Carol brings more than twenty-five years’ experience leading applied forestry research and building strong connections between science, industry and government. Her work has focused on delivering practical outcomes that support productive, sustainable and resilient forests.

Although new to the FGR team, Carol has been closely involved in the Precision Silviculture Programme since its inception in 2022, working alongside Claire Stewart as Workstream Lead for Planting and Establishment. Prior to joining FGR, she was Senior Scientist and Portfolio Lead for Trees to High Volume Wood Products at the Bioeconomy Science Institute.

Her experience spans applied forestry research, biosecurity and pest management, forest productivity, environmental stewardship, invasive species management and precision silviculture. Carol has led large, multidisciplinary research programmes in New Zealand and South Africa, secured competitive funding and built enduring partnerships that help translate science into operational practice.

FGR is excited to have Carol join the team and looks forward to working with her, industry and stakeholders to advance research and innovation across the forest-growing value chain. Please join us in welcoming Carol to FGR.