The Appalachian Society (ApSAF) is one of 33 multi-state / state societies that make up the national body know as the Society of American Foresters. ApSAF is composed of professional foresters and forest technicians from the three state region of Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

Since 1900, the Society of American Foresters has been dedicated to improving the health and productivity of America's forests. SAF provides information and networking opportunities to prepare its nearly 18,000 members for the challenges and the changes that face natural resource professionals.

The Society of American Foresters (SAF) is the national scientific and educational organization representing the forestry profession in the United States. Founded in 1900 by Gifford Pinchot, it is the largest professional society for foresters in the world. The mission of the Society of American Foresters is to advance the science, education, technology, and practice of forestry; to enhance the competency of its members; to establish professional excellence; and, to use the knowledge, skills, and conservation ethic of the profession to ensure the continued health and use of forest ecosystems and the present and future availability of forest resources to benefit society. SAF is a nonprofit organization meeting the requirements of IRS501C3. SAF members include natural resource professionals in public and private settings, researchers, CEOs, administrators, educators, and students.