MWMs are qualified small family forest land owners (small woodland owners) who receive specialized training by OSU Forestry Extension to be effective volunteers and community leaders. In return for approximately 85 hours of free instruction in subject areas that range from management planning, ecology, and forest inventory methods, MWMs provide an in-kind service in through various volunteer activities.

One of the most important functions of an MWM is to assist neighbors with basic forestry planning and decision-making processes, offering guidance and pointing them to local sources of assistance. Besides working with neighboring landowners, MWMs have optimized their own strengths and skills to complete their service in a variety of ways, such as:

• Assisting OSU Forestry Extension with tours and demonstrations

• Taking leadership roles in local organizations and community government

• Providing education to youth groups

• Speaking to non-forestry audiences regarding the importance of forestry