MFC Celebrates Centennial Anniversary

The Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) is celebrating a historic milestone today as March 6, 2026, marks 100 years since the agency was established by the Mississippi Legislature in 1926 to protect and manage the state’s forest resources.

For a century, the Mississippi Forestry Commission has worked to protect Mississippi’s forests from wildfire, assist private landowners with forest management, and support the state’s thriving forestry industry. Today, Mississippi has more than 19 million acres of forestland, making forestry one of the state’s most important natural resources and economic drivers. Forestry is currently the second-largest agricultural commodity in Mississippi.

“Mississippi’s forests are a vital part of our economy, our environment, and our heritage,” said State Forester Russell Bozeman. “For 100 years, the Mississippi Forestry Commission has worked with landowners, partners, and communities across the state to protect and sustain these resources for future generations.”

The centennial was recently celebrated during the Mississippi Forestry Commission Centennial Partnership Reception, held March 3 at Sparkman Auditorium at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum in Jackson, where partners, stakeholders, and supporters gathered to recognize the agency’s history and impact.

As part of the anniversary celebration, the Mississippi Forestry Commission partnered with the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum to create a special Mississippi Forestry Commission Centennial Exhibit, featuring historic forestry tools, equipment, and artifacts that highlight the evolution of forestry in Mississippi. The exhibit is open to the public through April 15.

Additional centennial initiatives include a commemorative tree planting at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum and the release of a new children’s book, “Pip and the Mississippi Wildfire,” developed by Mississippi Forestry Commission Region 3 Wildland Firefighter Lee Hood and the agency’s Outreach team. The book helps teach children about wildfire prevention and the importance of protecting Mississippi’s forests.

The Mississippi Forestry Commission also extends its appreciation to the partners and sponsors who supported the Centennial Celebration and continue to help advance forestry across the state. The event would not have been possible without their support.

For more information about the Mississippi Forestry Commission or wildfire prevention resources, visit mfc.ms.gov.