Tara Bal

Tara Bal is an Assistant Professor at Michigan Technological University (MTU) and Director of the Forest Health Master of Forestry Program. She leads the Wood Protection Group and Microbiology/Pathology Lab, focusing on forest health, invasive species, and climate impacts. Bal is a Certified Forester with the Society of American Foresters and emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in forestry education. Her roles include advising Master of Forestry students and co-directing Women in the Academy (WIA).

Educational Background:

• PhD in Forest Science, Michigan Technological University
• M.S. in Forest Ecology and Management, MTU
• B.S. in Forestry, Purdue University

Research Interests:
Bal investigates forest health dynamics, including pest/pathogen impacts, invasive species management, and climate change effects. She develops mitigation strategies for diseases like beech bark disease and explores culturally conscious education models (e.g., maple syrup management). Her work bridges ecological science with societal needs, emphasizing inclusive pedagogy.

Teaching and Mentoring:
Bal teaches courses on forest health, professionalism in forestry, and wild foods. She mentors graduate students and advocates for underrepresented groups in natural resources through initiatives like WIA. Her teaching integrates hands-on fieldwork and cultural perspectives.

Labs and Teams:
She leads the Wood Protection Group (studying decay-resistant treatments) and Microbiology/Pathology Lab (fungal and pathogen research). Collaborative projects include interlaboratory eDNA monitoring for oak wilt disease and iDNA tools for biodiversity assessment.