Austin Heine works with landowners, forestry consultants, and forest industry professionals throughout North Carolina and Virgina to develop reforestation plans that maximize forest productivity and long-term value. He specializes in helping customers understand how genetics, site conditions, and management decisions influence future stand performance.

Prior to joining ArborGen, Austin spent more than eight years with the North Carolina State University Cooperative Tree Improvement Program, where he worked extensively in seed production, tree breeding, progeny testing, nurseries, and forest genetics research. That experience provides him with a unique understanding of how improved genetics move from research trials to operational forestry.

Austin enjoys helping customers make informed decisions that will positively impact their forests for generations. He believes forestry offers a rare opportunity to combine science, stewardship, and long-term planning in a way that creates meaningful value over time.

Outside of work, Austin enjoys managing his own tree farm, hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time outdoors with his wife and children.