Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) Instructor-Led Training
Registration is open for instructor-led Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) courses for the 2026-2027 training year. Courses are tuition free.
The objective of the training is to introduce the concepts of forest growth and yield modeling using the simulator. Training will emphasize the capabilities to simulate the impacts of active forest management on forest structure, growth, timber yield/volume, fire behavior, and biomass.
The following sessions will be in-person. The in-person course includes regular structured exercises and data that participants will work through, as well as time set aside for students to work on modeling active forest management for their own local projects. Be sure to take full advantage of this time and bring project level stand inventory data. If you are not able to attend an in-person course, the regular structured classes exercises are also available as pre-recorded modules.
2026-2027 Forest Vegetation Simulator Training Schedule
| DATE | LOCATION |
|---|---|
| November 2-5, 2026 | Sisters, OR |
| February 8-11, 2027 | Ogden, UT |
| March 22-25, 2027 | Asheville, NC |
| March or April 2027 | To Be Determined, AK* |
*Details about the dates and location of the training in Alaska will be available soon. We will provide updates as soon as they are available.
There is space for 25-30 students in each session. Registration priority will be given to Forest Service and National Advanced Silviculture Program (NASP) applicants, although external applicants are encouraged to apply. A waiting list will be maintained to track applicants in excess of the student limit. Early registration is encouraged. Please register no later than six weeks prior to the start date. After that point, available spaces will be filled from the waitlist.
Training Registration
Please complete the electronic registration form to register for 2026-2027 FVS Training.
Approximately six weeks before the course, you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm that you still plan to attend. If you do not confirm, we will assume that you are no longer planning to attend, and we will fill your spot with someone on the waiting list.
If for some reason you need to cancel, or have questions regarding this registration, please contact the FVS Staff (e-mail: sm.fs.fvs-support@usda.gov).