The Southern Regional Extension of Forestry

Issue 177: Week of August 19th, 2024

Recent News

Regional News

• SGSF Promotes New Southern Community Wood Utilization Group
• Virtual Workshop on Indigenous Fire Practices
• VT Extension Fall Events for Landowners
• Florida Forest Service Breaks Annual Prescribed Burn Record
• Keeping Forests’ Lessons from Pilot Project Establishing Payment for Ecosystem Services
• 15th Biennial &ZeroWidthSpaceLongleaf Conference
• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Fall Workshops
• University of Kentucky Forestry Extension Weekly Show
• LSU Secures USFS Grant to Develop a Mass Timber Supply Chain
• August Blog Post from the Southern Group of State Foresters
• Honey Mesquite Herbicide Treatments
• UT Extension Releases Series of New  Factsheets on Non-Native Species
• Drought Update for the Southern Plains
• SGSF Details Wildland Firefighting Deployment Basics

National News

• Forest Owner Climate and Carbon Education Program Launches Webinar Series for Landowners & Natural Resource Professionals
• Invasive Species Predictor Tool Added to the i-Tree Suite of Tools
• FEMA Fire Management Assistance Grant
• Controlling Tick Populations with Prescribed Fire
• U.S. Geological Survey Launch New Communication & Collaboration Fire-Use Decision Framework
• USFS TreeMap Basics and Improvements
• Smokey Bear Celebrates His 80th Birthday
• Arbor Day Foundation Releases The Canopy Report: How America Sees Trees
• UMD Launches The Woods in Your Backyard Online Course

Webinars

Access previously listed webinars here.

• Unlocking Carbon Funding for Longleaf Restoration
• Conservation Innovation Grants: RangeDocs - Searchable Science for Rangeland Management
• Is it Time to Thin Your Timber Stand?
• Energy Efficient Building Envelope (CPS 672) Criteria and Implementation requirements
• A Squeal for Help: Preventing Feral Hog Invasions
• Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Headed: The Direction of Municipal Tree Care & Management
• Indigenous Stewardship Methods Evaluation
• SAF Forest Pollinator Webinar Series
• Eradication Efforts and Research Successes (and Failures) in the Ongoing Battle Against the Asian Longhorned Beetle in South Carolina
• AICUZ and REPI Partnerships for Enhanced Land Protection
• Watershed Forestry Webinar Series
• SAF Urban Wood Network Webinar Series
• Beech Leaf Disease: An Emerging Threat to the Queen of the Forest the American Beech
• Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management Stewardship Series
• Navigating Military Readiness Through Responsible Project Execution

Funding Opportunities

• Climate Hub Partnership Program Request for Proposals
• USDA Announces New Forest Landowner Support Funding for Tribes
• Landowner Cost Share Payment Programs for Climate Mitigation and/or Forest Resilience Practices
• Landowner Payment Programs for Carbon Stewardship Practices
• National Urban & Community Forestry Advisory Council Ten-Year Action Plan

Job Opportunities

• Longleaf Genetic Resource Manager (NCSU)
• Tree Improvement Manager (Arkansas)
• Assistant/Associate Professor – Silviculture (Mississippi State University)
• UKY Dept. of Forestry & Natural Resources Dept. Chair
• Agriculture and Forestry Special Programs Manager (Alabama & Georgia)
• Prescribed Fire Coordinator (San Angelo, TX)
• Director of Development (various locations, SC)
• Community Engagement Specialist (South Carolina)
• Family Forest Research Center- National Woodland Owner Survey Research Fellow
• Family Forest Research Center- Timber Products Output & Corporate Owner
• Family Forest Research Center- Post Doctoral Research Assoc.
• Asst./Assoc. Professor - Tree Biology, Structure, & Health Care (University of Georgia)

SGSF Promotes New Southern Community Wood Utilization Group

The Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF) has announced the official launch of the Southern Community Wood Utilization Group during this year’s International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) annual conference. This initiative is designed to promote sustainable community wood utilization across the south. Their main goals are to develop an understanding of their role in creating healthy urban forests, develop a network of relationships, and support community wood markets by communicating its’ economic value. The Southern Group of State Foresters is encouraging partners to invite potential participants to join the Southern Community Wood Utilization Group. The sign up form can be found here. Learn more about the Southern Community Wood Utilization Group by clicking here.

Virtual Workshop on Indigenous Fire Practices

The South Central Climate Adaptation Science Center, the Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center, and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) are hosting a virtual workshop “Partnering with Fire: Learning from Tribal Nations and Indigenous Practices.” This webinar is geared towards natural and cultural resource managers, especially those from Tribal Nations in the southern U.S., and others with an interest in learning more about the how Tribes utilize fire to adapt to climate change. Join to hear from a panel of experts form organizations like the USFS, The Nature Conservancy, and several Tribes. This webinar will be streaming live on September 26 at 10:00AM. Click here to register.

VT Extension Fall Events for Landowners

Virginia Tech (VT) Extension is hosting several events this fall for forest landowners. On September 20-21 there will be a Landowner Retreat geared towards landowners who are new to forest management in Providence Forge, VA. Attendees will be provided with information on both hardwood and pine forest management and meet with natural resource professionals from various agencies in Virginia. Click here to learn more. A legacy planning workshop will be held this fall, which is part of the Generation NEXT, an award-winning, nationally recognized forest educational program. In this workshop multiple generations of a family can interact and discuss their forest management goals and learn from experts about successful estate planning steps and strategies. The workshop is in Lynchburg, VA on October 26. Learn more here.

Florida Forest Service Breaks Annual Prescribed Burn Record

The Florida Forest Service has broken its annual prescribed fire record during the 2023-2024 fiscal year by burning 277,818 total acres in State Forests. The Florida Forest Service has more than doubled last year’s total of 131,628 acres treated and surpassed the previous annual record of 246,104 total acres during the 2014-2015 fiscal year. The Florida Forest Service aims to burn 200,000 acres per year and has exceeded this goal three times within the past six years. In addition, the Florida Forest Service manages more than 1 million acres of State Forests and provides forest management assistance to over 17 million acres of private and community forest land. Read the full story here.

Keeping Forests’ Lessons from Pilot Project Establishing Payment for Ecosystem Services

Keeping Forests, a collaborative working to find market solutions to save southern forests launched a pilot effort to establish payments for ecosystem services in the Saluda River watershed in South Carolina. Join Dr. Lauren Watkins, a Principal at Impact by Design, a non-profit organization that specializes in training and capacity building for non-profit organizations, as she delves into this project. The focus of this pilot effort was to develop community-driven solutions for establishing payment for ecosystem services (PES) markets in partnership with the South Carolina Forestry Commission. The webinar will provide insights into fostering corporate investment and motivating participation in ecosystem service markets across the South. The webinar will take place on August 20 at 1:00PM ET. Register here.

15th Biennial &ZeroWidthSpaceLongleaf Conference

The Longleaf Alliance will be hosting their 15th Biennial &ZeroWidthSpaceLongleaf Conference at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida on October 8-11. This is a regional conference focused on the restoration and conservation of longleaf ecosystems, that once dominated the landscape in the Southeast. Attendees will have the opportunity to share, learn, and celebrate longleaf pines. This conference is open to individuals, private landowners, land managers, wildlife biologists, conservation groups, consultants, university researchers, forestry professionals, agency and outreach personnel who share an interest in restoration of the longleaf pine ecosystem. Registration is $625 for non-members of the Longleaf Alliance. Register and learn more here.

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Fall Workshops

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension has several upcoming workshops on Ag Law, Rangeland Stewardship, and Ag Economics that will be held in August, September, and November. These workshops include overviews of key laws Texas landowners need to know, basic and advanced herbicide applications, legal issues surrounding grazing and hunting leases, and information on how to sell beef to consumers directly. These workshops are offered in various locations across Texas and range in price from $50-$100. Learn more and register here.

University of Kentucky Forestry Extension Weekly Show

The University of Kentucky (UK) Forestry Extension has a weekly internet show titled “From The Woods Today.” The show is co-hosted by Renee Williams, the Multimedia Communications Specialist, and Billy Thomas, an extension forester, and the UK Forestry and Natural Resources Extension team and a new episode streams live every Wednesday at 11:00AM ET. There are more than 200 recordings of these shows available for viewing currently. From The Woods Today covers a wide variety of wildlife and forestry topics relevant to Kentucky and the surrounding area. Click here to learn more.

LSU Secures USFS Grant to Develop a Mass Timber Supply Chain

Louisiana State University (LSU) AgCenter researcher Richard Vlosky and his team secured a grant from the U.S. Forest Service to develop an equitable mass timber supply chain in the South, focusing on connecting underrepresented communities with consumers and developers along the Eastern Seaboard. In this project, the team will analyze the current supply chain, identify barriers, and ensure opportunities for minority forest owners and workers. The aim is to foster economic growth in rural forest communities while supporting urban development with regionally sourced mass timber products. Read more by clicking here.

August Blog Post from the Southern Group of State Foresters

The Policy Director at Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF) has posted several forestry-related resources on SGSF’s blog. These resources include everything from grant funding for private landowners to the Forest Action Plan & Nursery Bill to the recent USDA investment in reduced wildfire risk and much more. Each resource has a short synopsis and additional links provided where readers can learn more. Click here to access the blog.

Honey Mesquite Herbicide Treatments

Researchers from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension released the results of studies that assessed how applications of different herbicides to honey mesquite influence the plant’s growth. Add a sentence in here about what honey mesquite is, and why they want to treat it with herbicides. The honey mesquite was treated with four different herbicides over two years. Clopyralid was the most effective herbicide with an average mortality rate of 72%. The second most effective herbicide was Picloram, with an average of 44% mortality rate. The concentration of herbicide within the stem was the highest with clopyralid and second highest with picloram. To read the full report, click here.

UT Extension Releases Series of New Factsheets on Non-Native Species

The University of Tennessee(UT) Forestry Extension recently released a series of new factsheets which provide an assessment and perspective on non-native species common to forest lands in Tennessee and adjacent states. Specifically, the authors also express concern about the excessive presence of non-native species in these areas. The factsheet includes and introduction and then separate shorter factsheets that describe and provide control measures for 9 common non-native species including kudzu, paulownia, tree-of-heaven, Chinese silvergrass, Chinese privet, callery pear, Japanese stiltgrass, honeysuckles, and autumn olive). References are given to obtain additional information for each invasive species. The Extension publication can be viewed here.

Drought Update for the Southern Plains

The National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) released a drought status update for the southern plains region (Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas) earlier this month. Higher than average temperatures have rapidly intensified drought conditions across the region resulting in the expansion of moderate to severe drought in central Kansas and Oklahoma and extreme to exceptional drought in Far West Texas. Hurricane Beryl brought heavy rains to Texas but missed most of the drought-affected areas. A warmer and drier winter is expected. Further details and maps with more specific location-based drought information can be found here.

SGSF Details Wildland Firefighting Deployment Basics

The Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF) has posted an article informing readers about the logistics of wildland firefighting efforts and tactics. These efforts are possible through the collaborative efforts of State forestry agencies, federal land management agencies and other partners. Key strategies for combating wildfires include maintaining optimal resource allocation, training and quickly mobilizing qualified responders, implementing a clear Incident Command System, and prioritizing the safety and health of all personnel. Read the full blog post here.

Forest Owner Climate and Carbon Education Program Launches Webinar Series for Landowners & Natural Resource Professionals

The Forest Owner Climate and Carbon Education (FOCCE), a program dedicated to helping forest owners make informed decisions about engaging in the carbon economy, has announced two new webinar series. Both series will discuss climate change, carbon markets, and managing carbon. The webinar series “Forest Owners and Carbon Incentives,” is targeted towards forest owners, conservationists, foresters, and natural resource professionals. Registration is $60 and webinars will occur on Mondays and Wednesday from September 2-18. The webinar series “Teaching Forest Owners about Carbon Incentives,” is targeted towards education professionals, extension educators, service foresters, and professionals who work with landowners. Registration is $100 and webinars will occur on Mondays and Wednesdays from August 26-September 25. Click here to learn more.

Invasive Species Predictor Tool Added to the i-Tree Suite of Tools

An assistant professor of entomology at the University of Maine, and  colleagues representing institutions across the Uni ted States have collaborated to develop the i-Tree Pest Predictor tool. This tool uses input data determined by hypotheses to predict the probability of a non-native insect becoming a high-impact pest. Factors considered are the traits of the insect, traits of the North American host trees, insect evolutionary history, and tree evolutionary history. The data was combined into a single model that predicts the risk a given insect poses for each North American tree species. The purpose of this tool is to predict which non-native species will become invasive so that action can be taken to mitigate its negative effects. The tool can be accessed here. I-Tree has several other tools for assessing trees, including tools for assessing individual trees, tree canopies, and tree planting. Learn more about these tools here.

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Grant

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has created a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) Program that is available to states and local and tribal governments for the purpose of mitigating, managing, and controlling fires on publicly or privately owned forests or grasslands. This program provides 75% federal cost share and the state pays the remaining 25% for actual costs. To apply for this program’s funding, the recipient must go through the Fire Management Assistance declaration process at the time a "threat of major disaster" exists and a decision will be made within a few hours. To assist applicants, FEMA has released a Fire Management Assistance Grant Program & Policy Guide. Learn more and view the guide here.

Controlling Tick Populations with Prescribed Fire

Researchers from the State University of New York's College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF) have conducted research on the relationship between wildland fire and tick populations. To determine tick populations, the researchers used a method called "corduroy on a stick" where two people drag a corduroy net across 16-by-25-meter plots of underbrush and count the ticks pluck the ticks off the fabric. The sampling sites had different burn histories with some being burned regularly, some not for several years, and some never having been burned. Findings show that tick populations increase after burning an area that has experienced a long absence of fire. When tender shoots begin to grow back, it attracts the tick’s intermediary hosts, deer. However, burning on a 3-5 year rotation will reduce tick populations as the flames killed the ticks outright and removed the cover ticks use for shelter. To learn more, click here.

U.S. Geological Survey Launch New Communication & Collaboration Fire-Use Decision Framework

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has published a new fire-use decision model to improve communication and collaboration in U.S. fire management. The model or framework is focused on improving the way climate data and findings are shared among researchers, policymakers, and the public to promote intentional and informed decision-making when planning prescribed burns. The publication discusses concerns regarding wildlife, prescribed fire, cultural burning, ecological conditions, case study examples, and more. The publication emphasizes the importance of mass communication for addressing modern complex environmental challenges. Read the publication here.

USFS TreeMap Basics and Improvements

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Rocky Mountain Research Station has released a new publication that outlines the basics and improvements for the TreeMap dataset. The TreeMap dataset provides detailed spatial information on forest characteristics and combines detailed Forest Inventory Analysis (FIA) data and spatially-comprehensive LANDFIRE data to estimate these forest characteristics, including number of live and dead trees, biomass, and carbon across the entire forested extent of the continental United States. Three new feature now available are (1) TreeMap Explorer, an interactive application for viewing and downloading data, (2) TreeMap Raster Data Gateway, a USFS website for downloading the TreeMap dataset, with standardized symbology and detailed metadata, and (3) Google Earth Engine (GEE) Data Catalog, contains satellite imagery using GEE cloud computation for geospatial analysis. Read the USFS publication explaining the new additions by clicking here.

Smokey Bear Celebrates His 80th Birthday

On August 9th Smokey Bear celebrated his 80th birthday. To honor his eight decades of educating Americans on wildfire prevention, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), National Association of State Foresters (NASF), and partner organizations are inviting the public to join in on Smokey’s birthday celebrations. Some of these celebrations include Smokey’s appearance in the next Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade and a new PSA on The Weather Channel. Other celebratory events will be supported by organizations like The Atlantic, Buzzfeed, Dotdash Meredith, Pinterest, Roku, SiriusXM Media, Twitch, and Uber. To learn more about Smokey Bear’s birthday celebrations, click here.

Arbor Day Foundation Releases The Canopy Report: How America Sees Trees

The Arbor Day Foundation has released The Canopy Report: How America Sees Trees, the result of a wide-ranging study into how Americans see trees. The report begins with an executive summary and discusses key themes. The body of the report is split into four sections: (1) people’s engagement with trees and green spaces, (2) trees’ importance in culture, (3) trees effects on human health and happiness, and (4) peoples’ beliefs about trees’ role in climate change. Some key statistics given in this report are that nine out of ten Americans say trees contribute to their mental well-being and that 87% of Americans believe trees help fight climate change. The report concludes by revealing the methodology used to collect the data presented. Click here to download the report.

UMD Launches The Woods in Your Backyard Online Course

Registration is now open for the Fall 2024 session of “The Woods in Your Backyard” online course offered through the University of Maryland’s (UMD) Electronic Learning Management System. This course is designed for small-acreage landowners who want to learn how to care for or expand existing woodlands. This course includes a printed copy of “The Woods in Your Backyard” guide and workbook, a copy of Common Native Trees of Virginia, quizzes, optional activities, and videos to reinforce important concepts. Registration for this course is $145 and is limited to 25 participants. Learn more and register here.

Join Dr. Lauren Watkins, a Principal at Impact by Design, a non-profit organization that specializes in training and capacity building for non-profit organizations, as she delves into Keeping Forests' innovative pilot effort in the Saluda River watersheds. This project explores community-driven solutions for establishing payment for ecosystem services (PES) markets in partnership with the South Carolina Forestry Commission. The session will provide insights into fostering corporate investment and motivating participation in ecosystem service markets across the South. Register here.

Unlocking Carbon Funding for Longleaf Restoration

Conservation Innovation Grants: RangeDocs - Searchable Science for Rangeland Management

Join this webinar to learn about the North American Invasive Species Management Association’s (NAISMA) elm selection program. This program is aimed at identifying, propagating, and screening survivor elms for DED tolerance from across the state of Minnesota. In addition, the reintroduction planting program will also return much needed DED resistant genotypes back into the landscape in both urban and natural forested landscapes. Register by clicking here.

Is it Time to Thin Your Timber Stand?

This webinar series will help natural resources and educational professionals develop a deeper understanding of climate change and carbon markets to better educate their clients and stakeholders. This series will cover various aspects of climate change and education, from strategies for engaging with landowners about climate change to the importance of private forests in combating it. Registration is $100. This is part 1 of the series. Click here to learn more.

This webinar will discuss the biology and ecology of common woodboring pests as well as suggested management tactics, including chemical and cultural options. Woodboring tree pests affect many different shrub and tree species in North America. Most are secondary pests in the insect Orders Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, and Coleoptera, typically affecting plants that are stressed, injured, or dying. part to register.

Energy Efficient Building Envelope (CPS 672) Criteria and Implementation requirements

Indigenous Stewardship Methods Evaluation: Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity (CEMA) – Part 2

This webinar series will help natural resources and educational professionals develop a deeper understanding of climate change and carbon markets to better educate their clients and stakeholders. This series will cover various aspects of climate change and education, from strategies for engaging with landowners about climate change to the importance of private forests in combating it. Registration is $100. This is part 2 of the series. Click here to learn more.

In this webinar, Brett Scheffers will present results from a nationwide survey of pet stores in the USA, the largest market for exotic pets, and discuss the invasion potential for 1,178 terrestrial vertebrates species found for sale. In the second part of the seminar, Scheffers will outline a comprehensive approach to invasive species risk assessment. By integrating expert opinions, physiological suitability data, and citizen science insights, they evaluated how vertebrate species at various stages of the invasion curve might pose future invasion threats. Register here.

This webinar series will help natural resources and educational professionals develop a deeper understanding of climate change and carbon markets to better educate their clients and stakeholders. This series will cover various aspects of climate change and education, from strategies for engaging with landowners about climate change to the importance of private forests in combating it. Registration is $100. This is part 3 of the series. Click here to learn more.

During this webinar series, participants will learn about various aspects of climate change, its impact on forests, and the workings of carbon markets. The series will also introduce several key concepts essential to understanding recent developments in forestry, such as climate-smart forestry, carbon pools, and making informed decisions about carbon incentives. Registration is $60. This is part 1 of the series. Click here to learn more.

This webinar series will help natural resources and educational professionals develop a deeper understanding of climate change and carbon markets to better educate their clients and stakeholders. This series will cover various aspects of climate change and education, from strategies for engaging with landowners about climate change to the importance of private forests in combating it. Registration is $100. This is part 4 of the series. Click here to learn more.

During this webinar series, participants will learn about various aspects of climate change, its impact on forests, and the workings of carbon markets. The series will also introduce several key concepts essential to understanding recent developments in forestry, such as climate-smart forestry, carbon pools, and making informed decisions about carbon incentives. Registration is $60. This is part 2 of the series. Click here to learn more.

A Squeal for Help: Preventing Feral Hog Invasions

Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Headed: The Direction of Municipal Tree Care & Management

Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management Stewardship Series: Geospatial Tools and Resources for Texas Landowners

This webinar series will help natural resources and educational professionals develop a deeper understanding of climate change and carbon markets to better educate their clients and stakeholders. This series will cover various aspects of climate change and education, from strategies for engaging with landowners about climate change to the importance of private forests in combating it. Registration is $100. This is part 5 of the series. Click here to learn more.

During this webinar series, participants will learn about various aspects of climate change, its impact on forests, and the workings of carbon markets. The series will also introduce several key concepts essential to understanding recent developments in forestry, such as climate-smart forestry, carbon pools, and making informed decisions about carbon incentives. Registration is $60. This is part 3 of the series. Click here to learn more.

Join the Master Watershed Steward program and extension educators to learn how to choose the best planting locations for your trees and shrubs. This includes understanding microsite conditions and the size of your planting area to ensure successful growth. The webinar will discuss various types of tree plantings, with a focus on containerized trees and the species featured in the 2024 Master Watershed Steward Native Tree and Shrub Sale. Click here to register.

This webinar series will help natural resources and educational professionals develop a deeper understanding of climate change and carbon markets to better educate their clients and stakeholders. This series will cover various aspects of climate change and education, from strategies for engaging with landowners about climate change to the importance of private forests in combating it. Registration is $100. This is part 6 of the series. Click here to learn more.

In this webinar for landowners and forestry practitioners, experts from multiple agencies in the southeast will provide context as to why longleaf pine is a climate-smart species, and what management practices make a climate-smart forest. Presenters will provide an overview of the guide and give information on the technical resources and financial assistance available to help any landowners begin or enhance their longleaf pine forest. Click here to register.

SAF Urban Wood Network Webinar Series: Urban Wood and Climate

This webinar series will help natural resources and educational professionals develop a deeper understanding of climate change and carbon markets to better educate their clients and stakeholders. This series will cover various aspects of climate change and education, from strategies for engaging with landowners about climate change to the importance of private forests in combating it. Registration is $100. This is part 7 of the series. Click here to learn more.

During this webinar series, participants will learn about various aspects of climate change, its impact on forests, and the workings of carbon markets. The series will also introduce several key concepts essential to understanding recent developments in forestry, such as climate-smart forestry, carbon pools, and making informed decisions about carbon incentives. Registration is $60. This is part 4 of the series. Click here to learn more.

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and CEMA 222 – Indigenous Stewardship Methods and Evaluation (Part 3)

This webinar series will help natural resources and educational professionals develop a deeper understanding of climate change and carbon markets to better educate their clients and stakeholders. This series will cover various aspects of climate change and education, from strategies for engaging with landowners about climate change to the importance of private forests in combating it. Registration is $100. This is part 8 of the series. Click here to learn more.

During this webinar series, participants will learn about various aspects of climate change, its impact on forests, and the workings of carbon markets. The series will also introduce several key concepts essential to understanding recent developments in forestry, such as climate-smart forestry, carbon pools, and making informed decisions about carbon incentives. Registration is $60. This is the final webinar of the series. Click here to learn more.

SAF Forest Pollinator Webinar Series: Bringing Forest Ecology to Bumble Bee Conservation

This webinar series will help natural resources and educational professionals develop a deeper understanding of climate change and carbon markets to better educate their clients and stakeholders. This series will cover various aspects of climate change and education, from strategies for engaging with landowners about climate change to the importance of private forests in combating it. Registration is $100. This is part 9 of the series. Click here to learn more.

This webinar is presented by USDA NRCS Science and Technology. Click here for more info.

This webinar series will help natural resources and educational professionals develop a deeper understanding of climate change and carbon markets to better educate their clients and stakeholders. This series will cover various aspects of climate change and education, from strategies for engaging with landowners about climate change to the importance of private forests in combating it. Registration is $100. This is the final webinar of the series. Click here to learn more.

Eradication Efforts and Research Successes (and Failures) in the Ongoing Battle Against the Asian Longhorned Beetle in South Carolina

The South Central Climate Adaptation Science Center, the Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center, and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) are hosting this virtual workshop. The webinar is geared towards natural and cultural resource managers, especially those from Tribal Nations in the southern U.S., and others with an interest in learning more about the how Tribes utilize fire to adapt to climate change. Join to hear from a panel of experts form organizations like the USFS, The Nature Conservancy, and several Tribes. Click here to register.

Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management Stewardship Series: CWD and Whitetail Deer Health and Management

AICUZ and REPI Partnerships for Enhanced Land Protection

Watershed Forestry Webinar Series: Riparian Forest Buffer Successes and Innovations

Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management Stewardship Series: Drones and Technology for Rangelands

SAF Urban Wood Network Webinar Series: Funding, Grants, and Investors

Beech Leaf Disease: An Emerging Threat to the Queen of the Forest the American Beech

Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management Stewardship Series: Top 10 Ag Laws

Navigating Military Readiness Through Responsible Project Execution

SAF Urban Wood Network Webinar Series: USRW Standards

Climate Hub Partnership Program Request for Proposals

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced their 2024 Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) Competitive Grants Program. The goal of this program is to invest in agricultural production research, education, and extension projects to produce more sustainable, productive, and economically-viable plant and animal production systems. Applications that address climate change, food, and nutrition security, expanding markets for producers, Indigenous traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), and equity for underserved producers are welcome. Approximately $300 million has been made available for programs included in the FY 2024 AFRI Foundational and Applied Science (FAS). See pages 4 and 5 to see priority areas and application deadlines. Deadlines range between August 2024-October 2024.



Landowner Cost Share Payment Programs for Climate Mitigation and/or Forest Resilience Practices

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has made $140 million in grants available to support state-endorsed cost-share programs for landowners. The goal of this funding is to promote healthy, resilient forests that can better withstand climate change impacts. Eligible applicants are State Forestry Agencies, Nonprofit Organizations, Institutions of Higher Learning, Units of Local Government, and those with letters of endorsement from a State Forester. The maximum amount a single applicant can be awarded is $5 million. Cost sharing or matching is required. The deadline for applications is September 30. To apply for this grant, the applicant must fill out an Application for Federal Assistance, A Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs form, and provide several appropriate attachments as indicated by Agency Guidelines. Learn more and apply here.

National Urban & Community Forestry Advisory Council Ten-Year Action Plan

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) is requesting proposals from qualified organizations/entities to facilitate, coordinate, and manage a collaborative and comprehensive process for the development of the National Urban and Community Forestry Action Plan (NUCFAC) Ten-Year Action Plan. The maximum award is $300,000 with no matching funds required. Eligible applicants are U.S. non-Federal organization operating within the United States. The Action Plan proposed must align with the Urban and Community Forestry program authorities designated by Congress in the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act to be accepted. Proposals are due by 5:00PM ET on September 13. Learn more here.

USDA Announces New Forest Landowner Support Funding for Tribes

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has recently announced that the Forest Service will have at least $20 million from the Inflation Reduction Act available to federally recognized tribes and Alaska Native corporations and villages. The goal of this funding is to help recipients overcome barriers to accessing private markets for forest resilience or climate mitigation. Eligible applicants are federally recognized tribes, Alaska Native corporations and villages, and tribal organizations as defined in the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S. Code § 5304). Tribal leaders who are interested in this opportunity are encouraged to attend a live webinar on March 6, 2024 from 2:00-3:00 pm EST. Advanced registration is required for this webinar. Eligible applicants may each submit one proposal request for up to $20 million. Proposals are due by August 21, 2024. Learn more and apply here. To register for the webinar, click here.

Landowner Payment Programs for Carbon Stewardship Practices

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has made $50 million in grants available to programs that issue payments directly to landowners to adopt practices that increase carbon sequestration and storage of their forests. The goal of this funding is to incentivize carbon stewardship on private land. Eligible applicants are Nonprofits, State governments, and State Forestry Agencies. The maximum among a single applicant can be awarded is $5 million. Cost sharing or matching is required. The deadline for applications is September 30. To apply for this grant, the applicant must fill out an Application for Federal Assistance, A Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs form, and provide several appropriate attachments as indicated by Agency Guidelines. Learn more and apply by clicking here.

Longleaf Genetic Resource Manager (NCSU)

The Cooperative Tree Improvement Program at North Carolina State University is hiring a Longleaf Pine Genetic Resource Improvement Manager. The position will manage the selection and archiving of a diverse set of 2nd-Generation longleaf pine selections from range-wide progeny tests. These selections will be freely available to the seed orchard community and must meet landowner needs for adaptability and productivity. The successful candidate should possess strong tree improvement skills and a passion for interfacing with stakeholders to grow the program. Apply here.

Tree Improvement Manager (Arkansas)

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture (ADA) Forestry Division is seeking applicants for the tree improvement manager position. The Tree Improvement Manager is responsible for Tree Improvement personnel and budget, establishment and management of production, breeding and preservation orchards, determining crosses that need to be completed within the breeding program, determining what seed will need to be harvested for the Forestry Division's use and what will be available for sale, site selection for progeny tests, installation and maintenance of progeny tests, and data collection from progeny tests. Click here to apply. 

Assistant/Associate Professor – Silviculture (Mississippi State University)

Mississippi State University is hiring an Assistant/Associate Professor. The minimum qualification for this position is a Ph.D. in Forestry or a related field. The successful candidate will initially teach current courses and eventually develop graduate courses in their area of expertise. This is a tenure-track, full time, 9-month teaching/research appointment. To read the full job description and apply, click here.

UKY Dept. of Forestry & Natural Resources Dept. Chair

The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (M-G CAFE), University of

Kentucky (UK) seeks a Department Chair to support a shared vision with innovative and skilled administration of the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources. The Chair will facilitate the Department’s efforts to enhance and develop prominence in research and graduate education, foster nationally recognized extension and outreach programs, and provide leadership for its Society of American Foresters (SAF)-accredited forestry undergraduate program. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in forestry, natural resources, or a related field of study encompassed by the Department’s programmatic areas. For more details, click here.

Agriculture and Forestry Special Programs Manager (Alabama & Georgia)

The Georgia-Alabama Land Trust is seeking applicants for a Special Agriculture and Forestry Programs Manager position. This position will provide support in three key areas: (1) assisting landowners in enrolling in various Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs, such as ACEP, ALE, WRE, etc.; (2) providing guidance to other land trusts engaging in carbon sequestration activities that are modeled after GALT’s successful, carbon sequestration project and related grant administration activities; and (3) providing guidance to private landowners regarding longleaf pine – including associated habitats – restoration and enhancement. Learn more here.

Prescribed Fire Coordinator (San Angelo, TX)

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is seeking applicants for a prescribed fire coordinator position. This role involves assessing landowner needs and developing Prescribed Burn Associations (PBAs) to promote prescribed fire for agriculture, habitat restoration, and wildfire mitigation. Responsibilities include creating web resources, leading landowner workshops, liaising with state agencies and NGOs, and advising on the formation and management of PBAs. Additionally, the role seeks funding opportunities, fosters relationships with local government and fire departments, and serves as an advisor to the PBAT board. A bachelor’s degree and four years of experience are required. Click here to apply.

Director of Development (various locations, SC)

The Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation (CHPP) is seeking applicants for a Director of Development position. The successful candidate will serve as a lead in cultivating and developing strategic resource development, including, but not limited to, individual and major gifts programs, annual fund, planned giving, special events, and capital campaigns. A minimum of five years of direct development experience and solicitation, preferably in a nonprofit environment, and a bachelor’s degree in business administration or communications, or related field are required. Learn more here.

Community Engagement Specialist (South Carolina)

The Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation (CHPP) is inviting applications for a Community Engagement Specialist position. This position will conduct community outreach and education activities including scheduling, coordinating, and implementing outreach events within their assigned service area. A minimum of an associate degree in business, marketing, or related field is required. Click here to learn more.

Family Forest Research Center- National Woodland Owner Survey Research Fellow

The Family Forest Research Center (FFRC) is seeking a motivated and personable Research Fellow to join their team. This position involves working closely with FFRC’s directors and other FFRC members, on various projects that explore the attitudes and behaviors of family forest owners and their impacts on the landscape, including the National Woodland Owners Survey (NWOS). Specific responsibilities will be tailored to the fellow’s interests and skills, providing a dynamic and flexible work environment. Projects are to be determined, but will likely include social-justice related topics, including Tribal Forest ownership. The minimum qualifications are a bachelor’s degree in social science, forestry, environmental science, or a related field and two years of related experience. Click here to learn more.

Family Forest Research Center- Timber Products Output & Corporate Owner

The Family Forest Research Center (FFRC) is seeking a motivated and personable Research Fellow to join our team. This position involves working closely with FFRC’s directors and other FFRC members on various projects that explore the role of corporate forest owners and national resource use, including the Timber Product Output Survey (TPO). Specific responsibilities will be tailored to the fellow’s interests and skills, providing a dynamic and flexible work environment. Projects are to be determined but will likely include corporate ownership dynamics and national resource use monitoring analyses. The minimum qualifications are a bachelor’s degree in forestry, environmental science, human dimensions, or a related field and two years of related experience. Learn more here.

Family Forest Research Center- Post Doctoral Research Assoc.

The Family Forest Research Center (FFRC) is seeking a dedicated and highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our team. This position will focus on work related to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funded Revegetation Assistance Assessment project. Specific research tasks will involve surveys, randomized control trials, and focus groups. The successful candidate will work closely with FFRC’s co-directors and other members of the Revegetation Assistance Assessment team. The minimum qualification is a Ph.D. in forestry, ecology, natural resources, or a related field. Apply here.

Asst./Assoc. Professor - Tree Biology, Structure, & Health Care (University of Georgia)

The Warnell School of Forestry at the University of Georgia invites applications for a

tenure-track faculty position in tree biology, structure, and health care at the Assistant or Associate Professor level with a 70% outreach, 25% instruction, and 5% university and professional service appointment. Terms of the appointment as 9 or 12 months are negotiable. Successful candidates will be expected to collaborate with faculty in forestry, urban forestry, and water resources and help grow an emphasis in community forestry and arboriculture within the Warnell School. A Ph.D. in forestry, natural resources, ecology, or a closely related field is required. Click here to apply.

Northeast–Midwest Regional Prescribed Fire Science and Management Workshop

Logging Cost Analysis Course

Free Hurricane Impact Forestry Landowner Meeting

Louisiana Forestry Association 77th Annual Meeting 

4th Annual Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention (SFLR) Joint Regional Conference

ARK-LA-TEX Wildlife Forum

SCGIS Annual Conference: Conservation for Action

Gain essential knowledge on a variety of forestry and wildlife topics that you can apply to your forest. Join this event to learn about current issues impacting our forests and practices that can be implemented to improve forests. Choose from a wide selection of topics including forest farming, basic forestry terms, wildlife, forest succession, and private land recreation. Register and view the agenda here.

2024 National Tribal and Indigenous Climate Conference

Southeast and Northeast Joint Regional Conference

ANROSP 2024 National Conference 

7th National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy Workshop

UGA Hardwood Silviculture and Management Workshop

SAF National Convention

Georgia Prescribed Fire Council 2024 Annual Meeting 

This Landowner Retreat, hosted by Virginia Tech (VT) Extension, geared towards landowners who are new to forest management. Attendees will be provided with information on both hardwood and pine forest management and meet with natural resource professionals from various agencies in Virginia. Registration is $65 per person or $130 for two. Click here to learn more.

National Association of State Foresters 2024 Annual Meeting

32nd Annual NAISMA Conference

International Conference on Chemicals and Products from Renewable Carbon

The Sustainable Future of CLT in the South: Grow. Design. Build.

University of Tennessee 2024 Oak Symposium

15th Biennial Longleaf Conference

SEAFWA 78th Annual Conference

This online course provides a step-by-step process to understand, track, & analyze the price, demand, supply, and competitive dynamics of local timber markets & wood baskets. The 2024 TMA Class will be held via Live Zoom Webinar with two half-days of course content. Early registration, until October 2nd, is $550 with some additional discounts available to students and Forisk product consumers. View the agenda and register here.

Certified Prescribed Burn Workshop with LDAF Certification

Extension Disaster Education Network 2024 Annual Conference

This legacy planning workshop is hosted by Virginia Tech (VT) Extension and Generation NEXT, an award-winning, nationally recognized forest educational program. This workshop provides legal information about successful estate planning steps and strategies. The workshop is $80 for two family members and $40 for each additional person. A light breakfast, lunch, and a 56-page Legacy Planning workbook are included. Click here to learn more.

The Innovation in Mass Timber Solutions (IMTS) is a two-day conference that will gather experts from across industry and academia, to provide an experience that engages participants in the exploration of the development and application of mass timber and cross laminated timber. This conference provides an opportunity to bridge industry and academia to come together to develop a road map for an initiative in innovation in wood education. Featuring a field tour, expert presentations, small group activities, and discussions, IMTS will engage attendees in the exploration of the development and application of mass timber solutions. Register and view the agenda here.

2024 Science Symposium

Texas A&M Prescribed Fire Field Day

A Community on Ecosystem Services Conference

Drought and Aquatic Ecosystems in the Southeast Workshop

Coastal GeoTools

This Landowner Retreat, hosted by Virginia Tech (VT) Extension, geared towards landowners who are new to forest management. Attendees will be provided with information on both hardwood and pine forest management and meet with natural resource professionals from various agencies in Virginia. Click here to learn more.

38th Forest Products Machinery & Equipment EXPO