From July 21 to 22, a delegation of young representatives from China and the United States visited Beijing to participate in a series of cultural visits and academic exchanges. Their itinerary began on July 21 with a tour of the Forbidden City, where they explored one of China's most iconic historical landmarks. The visit offered the delegates an opportunity to appreciate the grandeur of traditional Chinese architecture and gain a deeper understanding of Beijing's rich cultural heritage as an ancient capital.

Evelyn Neff
"This wasn't my first trip to China. I first visited Chengdu as a child to spend time with my family, and earlier this year, in January, I returned to Beijing.

Touring the Forbidden City was an unforgettable experience. Seeing the immense scale of its history, architecture, and cultural significance was truly inspiring. Its beauty and historical richness are unlike anything I have encountered in the United States. Being able to witness how China's history and traditions are reflected in its architecture made the visit especially meaningful."

On the morning of July 22, the delegation visited the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University of China. There, participants engaged in detailed discussions with scholars and experts on topics such as artificial intelligence and opportunities for technological collaboration between China and the United States.

Cecil Brooks
"Our visit to Renmin University gave us a unique chance to learn from experts who are applying technology to solve real social challenges. I was introduced to several Chinese AI-powered tools for the first time. It was fascinating to discover how WeChat's mini programs can assist with translation, help users explore unfamiliar places, and integrate with services like Didi for transportation. These interconnected digital services serve more than a billion people across China, demonstrating how technology can simplify everyday life and strengthen connections among people. It offers valuable insights into how similar innovations could benefit communities around the world."

The exchange program was jointly organized by the Center for the Americas of China International Communications Group and the U.S.-based International Student Conferences.

Sustainable forestry requires striking a careful balance between using resources responsibly and protecting areas with ecological, cultural, or historical importance. At PotlatchDeltic, foresters blend modern technology with hands-on expertise to identify and safeguard these vital areas, ensuring that forests remain both productive and ecologically valuable.

Certain sections of working forests have unique environmental or cultural significance. These can include rare ecosystems, important wildlife habitats, historic landmarks, and sites with indigenous heritage. PotlatchDeltic adheres to the rigorous standards set by the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI®). Protecting these locations involves more than just following guidelines—it requires detailed planning, advanced tools, and a deep understanding of the local landscape.

Before any forestry operations take place, foresters implement a thorough set of procedures. This process includes the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to assess spatial data, map out habitat and environmental limitations, and highlight areas requiring extra care. Identifying these zones early on enables foresters to make decisions that support both conservation and responsible land use.

Advancements in technology have made it easier to locate and protect sensitive areas. For instance, drones are now used to detect wildlife habitats—such as gopher tortoise burrows—that might otherwise be overlooked. However, technology is only part of the solution. Engaging with local communities, including indigenous groups and historical organizations, adds valuable insights that help confirm the cultural and environmental significance of these areas.

Once identified, these special places become a key component of PotlatchDeltic’s conservation strategy. Protections are integrated into the company’s GIS systems to ensure that factors like timber harvesting, road planning, and land use are considered with conservation in mind. Foresters adapt their strategies to meet the unique needs of each site. In areas where endangered species live, buffer zones are created, and logging schedules are adjusted to reduce disruption. If new nesting sites are found, operations may be paused until the nesting season is over to protect wildlife. Along riparian zones, best management practices prioritize water quality and aquatic habitat preservation.

Training is essential to maintaining these safeguards. Foresters and contractors receive the knowledge and tools necessary to recognize sensitive sites during their fieldwork. Environmental management systems ensure that conservation priorities remain central to planning, using automated tools to flag areas with restrictions. Large or unique sites are also monitored through annual inspections and compliance checks to ensure their long-term ecological and cultural value.

The need to protect these special places is more critical than ever. By combining modern technology, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable forestry practices, PotlatchDeltic ensures the protection of high-conservation areas, historic landmarks, and vital wildlife habitats—all while maintaining a renewable supply of timber. The company’s approach proves that forestry and conservation can successfully coexist.