The company was started in 1964 by Max and Lois Foster very near its current location in Napavine, Washington. Max was a qualified pilot as well as certified aviation mechanic. Lois drove the support truck and whatever else needed to be done to make a successful business and raise four children. Dan Foster the youngest of the children and the only boy traveled with Max to the jobsites every weekend and during summer vacations from school. In the beginning, mint, peas and potatoes were the main crops treated and took us all over the Pacific Northwest. Having established a wide territory the company expanded into forestry as foresters discovered the benefits of aerial application of herbicides to control vegetation in conifer plantations. Aerial seeding of wildfire burned areas was also critical to the environment and to the success of Farm and Forest Helicopters. We fought fire then seeded grass or trees into the burned areas to slow erosion and to reseed the conifers.

Farm and Forest Helicopters has evolved into a very diverse organization that provides a myriad of different aviation services. We are an air taxi service that can pick up passengers and take them wherever they may want to go within the contiguous 48 states. This service includes scenic flights, wild life surveys, aerial photography, search and rescue, or just about any mission that is deemed safe by our expert pilots. We also provide aerial lift services using an external long line to support construction, logging or other industries.

Aerial application continues to be the core business of Farm and Forest Helicopters. We have adapted to changing conditions, regulations and public perception to thrive in an environment that is subject to much scrutiny from the public and regulators alike. We have embraced technology to improve our technique and ability to protect crops in sensitive areas. The use of the latest in drift control nozzles, satellite guidance systems and constant training as well as a willingness to adapt and change has made us a leader in the aerial application industry.

Farm and Forest Helicopters has grown from a “Mom and Pop” company of almost fifty years ago to a fleet of six turbine powered helicopters and as many as 24 full time employees. This has been accomplished through our commitment to quality, on time performance and our safe and dedicated work force.