The Sustainable Forestry & African American Land Retention (SFLR) Network is working to protect Black-owned family land in the U.S. South by combining sustainable forestry with legal and community support. At the heart of its mission is addressing heirs’ property—land passed down without clear title—which has historically placed African American families at risk of losing generational wealth, cultural heritage, and community stability. Through fact sheets, videos, and resource guides, the network highlights the economic and environmental value of forests while providing landowners with the tools to secure titles, adopt sustainable forestry practices, and build long-term resilience. By elevating voices of African American forest owners and showcasing success stories, SFLR is building both awareness and action around land justice. This approach reflects the same values Aspen CSG advances: strengthening rural prosperity by equipping communities to preserve assets, build wealth, and ensure the benefits of development are shared across generations.
RESOURCES TO SUPPORT AFRICAN AMERICAN LAND RETENTION
