Barb Fair

Barb Fair is an Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in Landscape Horticulture at North Carolina State University. She holds a PhD from The Ohio State University (2005) and a Master of Forest Resources (1994) and BS in Forest Science (1980) from The Pennsylvania State University. Her primary role is 70% extension work and 30% teaching, focusing on landscape horticulture, urban forestry, and arboriculture. She teaches Plant Identification courses and collaborates with extension agents, industry professionals, and communities to address landscaping challenges.

Her research emphasizes soil and water management in landscapes, tree planting techniques, and woody plant physiology. She is a Certified Arborist and actively involved in the International Society of Arboriculture. Key areas of expertise include plant selection, maintenance, and soil compaction effects on tree growth. She has authored publications on topics ranging from community forestry grants to residential water use optimization.

Barb’s work bridges academic research with practical applications, providing resources such as tree pruning guides and soil management strategies. She contributes to statewide initiatives like the 'Ten Million Trees' urban greening project. Her extension outreach focuses on empowering homeowners and professionals with evidence-based horticultural practices.