Inclusion of women in the forest entomology and forest pathology workforce has been a difficult journey. While policies and resources exist for organizations and departments to increase diversity and retain women, there still exist large gaps in gender parity at forest research institutions globally. It is imperative that we better understand the barriers that exist for women in forest entomology and pathology so that more inclusive environments can be created that are welcoming towards women and other underrepresented groups. To assess these barriers and subsequent opportunities for improvement, we surveyed forest entomology and pathology professionals globally to ask about their experiences in the workforce. We also provide examples of trends in gender representation at relevant institutions. Barriers to success for women and men were very different; women experienced more barriers related to family caretaking while men experienced more barriers related to funding opportunities. These differences show where opportunities lie to better attract, support, and retain women in forest entomology and forest pathology. Although some trends in gender representation are promising, large gaps continue to exist which need to be addressed.

Open access

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forpol.2023.103022

Citation:
Jessica A. Hartshorn, Eckehard G. Brockerhoff, Maartje J. Klapwijk, Mariella Marzano, Rebecca J. Ganley, Molly N. Darr: Attracting and retaining women in forest entomology and forest pathology. Forest Policy and Economics, Volume 154, 2023, 103022. ISSN 1389-9341. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forpol.2023.103022