Kurt Fesenmyer
Forest Spatial Data Scientist
Kurt Fesenmyer Kurt Fesenmyer is a forest spatial data scientist on The Nature Conservancy’s Natural Climate Solutions Team. © TNC
Areas of Expertise
Geographic Information Systems, Remote Sensing, Forests
Publications
Biography
Kurt Fesenmyer is a forest spatial data scientist on The Nature Conservancy’s Natural Climate Solutions Team. His work focuses on measuring and mapping forest management practices that enhance carbon storage, support biodiversity and provide livelihoods for local communities.
Kurt has more than a decade of experience conducting spatial analyses and scientific research to inform conservation. Prior to joining The Nature Conservancy in 2021, he worked for Trout Unlimited and the U.S. Geological Survey.
Kurt began his conservation career as a volunteer with TNC conducting prescribed fires in pine savannas in Florida and North Carolina. He received Master of Forestry and Master of Environmental Management degrees from Duke University and is a Candidate Certified Forester.
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‘Win-win’: new maps reveal best opportunities for global reforestation
The Guardian | Jun 10, 2025
New study shows regions with best potential to regrow trees and suck climate-heating CO2 from the air. Read more
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Why the global area for regrowing trees is 71% smaller than thought
Carbon Brief | Jun 10, 2025
Over the past decade, research has emerged suggesting that ramping up reforestation around the world could make a substantial contribution to tackling climate change. Read More
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Global area available for forest restoration overestimated by up to 92%
Carbon Pulse | Jun 10, 2025
The global land area for reforestation has been significantly overestimated so far, as previous estimates overlooked key drawbacks, including potential negative impacts on biodiversity. Read More
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Rightsizing Reforestation
nature.org | Jun 10, 2025
Latest science gives unprecedented clarity on where best to restore forest cover to protect climate—71-92% less area than previously estimated. Read more