Green Diamond & The Future of Working Forests

For over 135 years, Green Diamond has been rooted in a tradition of responsible forest management. Founded in Mason County, the company owns and manages more than 2.2 million acres of private working forestland across the western and southern United States, maintaining a long-standing presence in the region where it began.

Green Diamond grows and nurtures forests that sequester carbon as living, growing trees and continue to store carbon in the wood products used to build homes, schools, and other structures. This approach reflects a broader commitment to managing forests not only as a renewable resource, but as part of a long-term, sustainable cycle. One hundred percent of the company’s timberlands are third-party certified, reinforcing a science-based approach to forest management and a focus on long-term land stewardship.

In Washington, Green Diamond’s lands are certified to Sustainable Forestry Initiative® standards. Timberlands in Mason, Grays Harbor, Pacific, Thurston, and Lewis counties are managed under a Habitat Conservation Plan developed through collaboration with state and federal agencies, conservation groups, and Tribes. The plan protects 51 fish and wildlife species while allowing for continued forest operations, balancing environmental priorities with responsible land use. Additional protections are also in place for species such as the Pacific fisher and northern spotted owl under Washington’s forest practices regulations.

Beyond forest management, Green Diamond’s lands also serve as a resource for the community. The company allows public access to portions of its working forests in Washington and operates a Recreation Access Permit Program across several counties, including Mason County. These lands are used by community members for a variety of outdoor activities and remain an important part of the region’s connection to its natural landscape.

Green Diamond also maintains a longstanding commitment to the communities where it operates, contributing to local organizations through both monetary and in-kind support. These efforts are focused in the areas where the company has a presence, reinforcing its connection to the region.

This commitment also includes support for local students through scholarship programs such as the Mark E. Reed Scholarship, which has been awarded since 1947 and provides funding to students in Green Diamond’s operating communities, including Mason County, to support continued education beyond high school.

At the February Chamber luncheon, Green Diamond presented on their long-standing commitment to sustainable forestry, economic contribution, and community engagement. Company leaders shared how Green Diamond’s certified working forests support local jobs, wages, tax revenue, conservation efforts, and wildfire preparedness while balancing long-term environmental stewardship.

As Mason County continues to grow, working forests remain an important part of the region’s economy and identity. Green Diamond’s approach reflects an ongoing effort to manage these lands in a way that supports both environmental stewardship and the communities connected to them, ensuring these working forests remain a resource for future generations.

Green Diamond is a forward-thinking steward of working forests, committed to carbon-smart solutions, habitat conservation, and recreational access. More information about the company is available at greendiamond.com.