Talk Descriptions

Tree Identification, Doug McLaren, University of Kentucky Extension, retired 

More than one hundred different forest related tree species reside within the borders of the three states of Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. Within the time limit of the one-hour class we will explore what resources, processes, and characteristics are used in the process of identifying the region’s valuable and renewable resource of trees. 

Woodpeckers: Flickers, Sapsuckers, Downies, and More!, Marne Titchenell, Ohio State University Extension 

Woodpeckers are impressive birds; their abilities have earned them the nickname nature’s power tools. We will explore why they have earned this title, their interesting lifestyles, how to ID woodpeckers of the tristate area, and ways to manage your forest to support woodpeckers. 

Conservation Plantings for Pollinators, Brian MacGowan, Purdue University Extension

Pollinators are necessary for the reproduction of most flowering plants, including many food crops. Woodland owners can benefit this important group of species in many ways—several of which also benefit wildlife. I will present a summary of important types of pollinators, habitat needs of pollinators, practices woodland owners can establish, and best management practices that benefit pollinators. 

Managing Your Woodland Using Crop Tree Release, Kathy Smith, Ohio State University Extension, retired 

Crop tree management is a tool that can be used to improve a woodland. In this talk we will discuss what crop tree management is, how to apply it, and show how it was used to improve a sugarbush. 

Miniature Forests within the Forest: Identification of Woodland Bryophytes, Bob Klips, Ohio State University 

Mosses and liverworts are true plants found in nearly every ecosystem. However, because of their small size, they often escape the notice of otherwise attentive nature-lovers. By looking at them close-up and knowing which ones will be encountered on different substrates, we will learn to recognize the most common species. 

Where Do Your Hardwood Logs Go?, Matt Bumgardner, USDA Forest Service 

There are a variety of possible end-uses for hardwood logs after harvest. This talk will explore trends in current hardwood markets, what consumers are thinking, and discuss where the industry might be headed. 

Unraveling Herbicide Labels, Jim Downs, Ohio State University Extension and Stephanie Downs, Division of Forestry 

Working with (or planning to work with) herbicides for your woodland management? Join us for an interactive session to reduce the confusion around what you need to know about herbicide labels. Learn what important label components to look for, work through an herbicide label to find valuable information, and understand your legal obligations when handling and applying herbicides. 

Key Issues for Woodland Owners, Ellen Crocker and Billy Thomas, University of Kentucky Extension 

This session will address key issues woodland owners face. Learn how to address them and who can assist you on your woodland stewardship journey to make your property healthier and more productive. 

Nest Boxes for Wildlife, Brian MacGowan, Purdue University Extension 

Many mammals and birds depend on natural cavities in trees for cover and/or nesting habitat. Woodland owners can provide nest boxes to help provide habitat in woods or other areas which lack natural cavities. I will outline the habitat needs of several mammal and bird species that can benefit from nest boxes, as well as optimal design and placement strategies within the context of a balanced wildlife habitat management approach. 

Backyard Maple Syrup, Jake Nicholson, Ohio State University Extension 

If you are curious about how to make real Maple Syrup in your backyard, this is the talk for you. We will cover everything you need to know to get your very own hobby maple operation off the ground. Come join us to discover the untapped potential of your trees! 

Are Digital Forestry Tools of Practical Value to Landowners? An Introduction to Innovative Forest Management Technologies, Erica Kronenberger, Purdue University 

Digital technologies that integrate artificial intelligence and remote sensing data are increasingly being developed for applications in forestry. Promoting Economic Resilience and Sustainability of the Eastern U.S. Forests (PERSEUS) — a collaboration between Purdue University, the University of Georgia, and the University of Maine — aims to develop and disseminate such technologies for use by landowners and forestry professionals, with the goal of enhancing the longterm sustainability of forest resources. In this presentation, we will demonstrate some of the PERSEUS products and invite landowner feedback to help refine these new management tools. 

Building Forest Trails That Stand the Test of Time, Bob Mulligan, Ohio Division of Forestry 

Long-lasting forest trails don’t happen by accident! This session will cover steps you can take to build trails that meet your objectives and that require minimal maintenance. Topics will include pre-construction planning, trail layout, erosion control BMPs, repurposing old logging roads and trails, user safety, and routine maintenance strategies. 

Upland Oak Management & Prescribed Fire, Jim Downs, Ohio State University Extension 

An introduction to the importance of upland oak in our woodlands will be provided. Details for fitting prescribed fire into oak management will be discussed. 

Snake Identification, Matt Springer, University of Kentucky Extension 

This session will cover the basics of snake ID for the species relevant to the Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio regions. Emphasis will be put on the understanding of the features of snake used in identification especially those relevant to venomous and non-venomous identification. Other resources related to snake identification and natural history will be shared along with citizen science opportunities. 

The State of Forest Health in the Region, Ellen Crocker, University of Kentucky Extension