The Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT) is a premier government institute under Bhutan's Department of Forests and Park Services, within the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources. Located at Lamai Goempa in Bumthang, it serves as the nation's center of excellence for forestry research, capacity building, and professional training.
Established in 2004 and renamed over the years, UWIFoRT focuses on sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, watershed studies, and socio-economic research. It offers specialized training programs, including a one-year forestry certificate course and short courses for forestry professionals and stakeholders. The institute also hosts seminars, workshops, and collaborative research projects, fostering knowledge exchange nationally and internationally.
Through science-based research, policy support, and community engagement, UWIFoRT plays a vital role in conserving Bhutan's rich forest ecosystems while promoting sustainable livelihoods.
The Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT) leads forestry and conservation research in Bhutan through two key centers:
- Center for Conservation - Focuses on wildlife biology, ecology, conservation science, climate change, and human-wildlife conflict. It conducts biodiversity monitoring, eDNA studies, invasive species research, and ecosystem service valuation, while managing national museums and supporting academic research.
- Center for Forest Science and Technology - Specializes in sustainable forest management, forest policy, non-wood forest products, dendrochronology, pests and diseases, and wood anatomy. It develops forestry technologies, supports forest-based enterprises, and advises on FNCA and CITES matters, while maintaining herbaria and research labs.
Together, these centers combine science, policy, and capacity-building efforts to conserve Bhutans's forests and biodiversity.
UWIFoRT's team of researchers comprises specialists in forestry, biodiversity conservation, environmental science, socio-economics and hordes of other specialized fields. Our collective expertise spans wildlife biology, ecology, forest science, dendrochronology, wood anatomy, forest pest management, botanical studies, and natural resource policy.
We lead research projects of national and international importance, develop innovative forest and conservation technologies, and provide evidence-based policy recommendations to national and international stakeholders. We also serve as trainers and mentors, building the capacity of forestry professionals, protected area managers, tour guides and students.
In addition to field and laboratory work, UWIFoRT's researchers contribute to the management of national herbaria, museums, and genetic reference collections, ensuring the preservation of Bhutan's natural history. Through collaborations with global research institutions, we bring international best practices to Bhutan while promoting local knowledge and solutions for sustainable resource management.
