The Southern Regional Extension of Forestry

Issue 180: Week of October 14th, 2024

Recent News

Regional News

• Find Resources for Forest Landowners Affected by Hurricane Helene
• USDA Hurricane Helene Aftermath Resources
• USFS Provides Funding for Southern Projects to Reduce Wildfires in National Forests
• NCSU Identifies Landowner Barriers to Improve Extension Education
• 2020 Southern Region Forest Action Plan Summaries
• Drought and Aquatic Ecosystems in the Southeast Workshop Call for Abstracts
• Southern Group of State Foresters Elects a New Group of Officers
• MSU Heirs’ Property Training Workshop
• University of Kentucky Tree Week Webinar Series

National News

• Graduate Student Environmental History Essay Prize
• Climate Smart Communities Initiative Registry Applications Now Open
• European Commission Proposes Enforcement Delay for New EU Deforestation Regulation
• Study Findings Support Inter-State Cooperation for Endangered Species Conservation
• USFS Releases a Practical Guide to Forestry Feedstock Under EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard
• Climate Literacy Guide for More Effective Climate Education
• Carbon Market Resources for Educators
• USFS Creates New Indigenous Communities Engagement Training

Webinars

Access previously listed webinars here.

• Effects of fire on ecosystem carbon in the Midwest and Eastern United States – A Primer
• Yale Forest Forum – Conserving Mature and Old-Growth Forests in a Changing Climate
• Managing the right species on the right site
• Future Directions for Hurricane Disturbed Forests
• Southeast Monthly Webinar Series
• Coastal Forests as Sentinels of Climate Change and Sea Level Rise
• Clash and Connection on the Best Land
• Working with Private Landowners to Increase Prescribed Fire Capacity
• Naturally diverse plant communities do not resist invasion by the strong competitor, Microstegium vimineum
• Workforce Opportunity Webinar Series
• Creative Funding Opportunities
• Beech Leaf Disease: An Emerging Threat to the Queen of the Forest the American Beech
• Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management Stewardship Series
• SC Women Owning Woodlands Fall 2024 Webinar Series
• Navigating Military Readiness Through Responsible Project Execution
• SAF Urban Wood Network Webinar Series
• Creating Compelling Proposals

Funding Opportunities

• USDA Seeks Applications to Create and Save Jobs in Rural Areas
• Chesapeake Bay Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction Grants
• USDA NIFA Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Grants

Job Opportunities

• Multiple Positions (Texas A&M Forest Service)
• Forest Products Specialist- (WI DNR)
• Natural Resources Specialist (University of Maryland Extension)
• Assistant/Associate Professor – Silviculture (Mississippi State University)
• UKY Dept. of Forestry & Natural Resources Dept. Chair
• Endowed Director of the Wood Utilization and Design Institute (Clemson University)
• Extension Associate in Prescribed Fire and Fire Science (NCSU)
• Wildlife Faculty Positions – Three Positions (LSU Ag Center)
• Prescribed Fire Coordinator (San Angelo, TX)
• Family Forest Research Center (three positions)
• Asst./Assoc. Professor - Tree Biology, Structure, & Health Care (University of Georgia)
• Director of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry (Louisiana Tech University)
• Assistant Professor in Global Change Ecology (Virginia Tech)
• Assistant/Associate Professor Spatial Technologies (Mississippi State University)

Find Resources for Forest Landowners Affected by Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene affected not only numerous communities, but also forest land and natural areas. State forestry Extension programs and State forestry agencies have assembled a number of resources that can assist forest landowners as they start to address their challenges. These assembled resources range widely and include best practices for using a chainsaw, tax information for casualties and losses, urban tree assessments, storm damage fact sheets, and more. Find these resources here.

USDA Hurricane Helene Aftermath Resources

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is offering assistance to help agriculture operations recover from storm damages. They have published several resources on reporting and documenting losses, disaster programs, and low-interest emergency loans. The programs most relevant to forest landowners are the Tree Assistance Program (TAP) which provides cost-share assistance to replant or rehabilitate trees, the Emergency Conservation and Emergency Forest Restoration Programs that provide financial and technical assistance to restore conservation practices, the Environmental Quality Incentives Program that focuses on providing financial and technical assistance to implement conservation practices, and the Emergency Watershed Program which provides personalized advice and financial assistance to relieve imminent watershed threats. To learn more about USDA’s hurricane recovery assistance resources, click here. To watch a recorded briefing about hurricane resources, click here.

USFS Provides Funding for Southern Projects to Reduce Wildfires in National Forests

The U.S. Forest Service’s Collaborative Wildfire Risk Reduction Program is investing $100 million in 21 wildfire reduction projects in national forests using funding from the Inflation Reduction Act. Four projects from the southern region have been selected for funding. One project in Kentucky/Virginia will promote risk mitigation planning, community engagement, and workforce building in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests was awarded $4.99 million. The national forests in Mississippi received $5 million to restore longleaf pine forest health. A North Carolina project was awarded $4.95 million to reduce hazardous fuels and increase public education in the Croatan National Forest area. Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee was awarded $3.07 million for a project that will reduce density in the forest and thus fire risk. The full list of funded projects can be found here. To read the press release, click here.

NCSU Identifies Landowner Barriers to Improve Extension Education

In a recent Journal of Extension article, researchers from North Carolina State University (NCSU) describe how they used a participatory segmentation strategy, called the Actor Diagramming and Tracing Method (ADT) to segment forest landowners. This method guides extension agents through the development of pro-environmental initiatives to best identify human and non-human actors’ needs and barriers. Actors in this instance refers to entities who are involved in or influenced by the creation of desired behavioral outcomes, including but not limited to government agencies, universities, and non-profits as examples of human actors and recreational/cultural spaces, ecosystem, and equipment as examples on non-human actors. Using the ADT Method NCSU researchers engaged a diverse set of stakeholders through interviews and observations to create relationship-driven diagrams. Three segments were identified by the family forest landowners interviewed: unengaged landowners, semi-engaged landowners, and highly-engaged landowners. The barriers these landowners face depend primarily on their segment categorization. Read the full article here.

2020 Southern Region Forest Action Plan Summaries

The Southern Group of State Foresters has published a summary document of the 2020 State Forest Action Plan Assessments for the southern region. State Forest Action Plans serve as roadmaps for forest management, incorporating a large range of factors that contribute to overall forest health and sustainability. This summary contains regional and state-specific information, obtained from various publicly available sources such as state agencies and National Association of State Foresters websites, for each of the 13 southern states in addition to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The document is split into sections including an overview of key priorities, key issues (invasive species, market availability, wildfire, etc.), goals and objectives, strategies, priority landscape areas, and partnerships. The document concludes with summaries of the southern states’ commonalities. To read the State Forest Action Plan summary, click here.

Drought and Aquatic Ecosystems in the Southeast Workshop Call for Abstracts

Abstract submissions for the Drought and Aquatic Ecosystems in the Southeast Workshop are now open. This workshop’s themes focus on understanding, monitoring, and adaptation planning surrounding droughts and low-flow ecosystems. There are two submission types: a poster session submission and a tool & resource fair submission. The deadline for submission is November 22. This year’s workshop will be held in Raleigh, NC from January 7th to January 9th. Registration is free and limited to 100 people for in-person attendance; register by November 22. Virtual participation is available for plenary, panel, and presentation sessions. Click here to access the abstract submission form. Register for the workshop here.

Southern Group of State Foresters Elects a New Group of Officers

A new group of officers has been elected to the Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF) executive committee for the 2024/2025 term. Rob Farrell, Virginia State Forester, is the new chair for the SGSF Executive Committee. The Chair also serves as the Southern Area Representative to the National Association of State Foresters.&ZeroWidthSpace&ZeroWidthSpace&ZeroWidthSpace&ZeroWidthSpace&ZeroWidthSpace&ZeroWidthSpace&ZeroWidthSpace Additional officers are Brandon Howard, Kentucky State Forester as Vice Chair, and Al Davis, Director of the Texas A&M Forest Service as Treasurer. Read the blog post here.

MSU Heirs’ Property Training Workshop

Mississippi State University (MSU) Southern Rural Development Center will be hosting two Understanding Heirs’ Property at the Community Level train-the-trainer workshop opportunities. The first workshop will be held on October 29 & 30 at the Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley Hotel in Raleigh, NC and the second workshop will be held on November 13 & 14 at the Hyatt Regency in Orlando, FL. This workshop is designed for Land-Grant professionals for the purpose of the training families and communities in their local area. More information can be found here on the project’s website. Click here to access the registration form for Raleigh. Click here to access the registration form for Orlando.

University of Kentucky Tree Week Webinar Series

The University of Kentucky (UK) Forestry and Natural Resources Extension is hosting a webinar series, “Tree Week 2024.” This series features five webinars from October 11 till October 18 and there is an associated event, Bountiful Trees & Better Stream Buffers, on October 19 at Gardenside Park in Lexington, KY. Join these webinars to hear from experts about topics like tree planting, care and health, stream buffers, forestry careers, and more. Click here to register for the webinar series. Click here to learn more about the Bountiful Trees & Better Stream Buffers event.

Graduate Student Environmental History Essay Prize

The American Society for Environmental History (ASEH) and the Forest History Society (FHS) will award the ASEH-FHS Graduate Student Essay Prize for the best essay of journal-article length written by a graduate student on an environmental history and/or forest history topic. The winner will be awarded $250 and the essay will be strongly considered for publication in the Environmental History Journal. Three additional essays may be selected for publication consideration. Applicants must be members of ASEH, FHS or ASEH-FHS joint members at the time of submission. The submission deadline is November 20th. Click here to learn more.

Climate Smart Communities Initiative Registry Applications Now Open

The Climate Smart Communities Initiative (CSCI) is now accepting applications to join its "Registry of Climate Adaptation and Resilience Professionals." Any organization that works in the field of climate adaptation and resilience, are committed to following best practices, and have a track record of high-quality results are welcome to join. Benefits of joining the registry include access to funding from CSCI and networking/collaboration opportunities. At a minimum, applying organizations must have at least 3 years of experience in the field or two years of experience plus specialized training. After submission, each application will be reviewed within two months. To learn more and apply, click here.

European Commission Proposes Enforcement Delay for New EU Deforestation Regulation

The European Commission has proposed an extra 12-month phasing-in time for the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), an upcoming regulation that aims to promote deforestation-free products through tracking forest product supply chains, in response to preparedness concerns by global partners. The regulation’s postponement is due to concerns that it will disrupt trade since many wood suppliers are not prepared for its enforcement. If the proposal is approved, it would make the law applicable on December 30th, 2025 for large companies and June 30th, 2026 for small enterprises. The European Commission has also published additional guidance documents and a stronger international cooperation framework to support global stakeholders in their preparations for the EUDR implementation. Read the press release and access the additional resources here. Read an article by Associate Press News here. Read a news story about U.S. bipartisan support to postpone the EUDR’s enforcement here.

Study Findings Support Inter-State Cooperation for Endangered Species Conservation

A new study published in the Society for Conservation Biology journal highlights the need for improved multi-state coordination in conserving imperiled species across the U.S. It reviews the Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) list from State Wildlife Action Plans (SWAPs), a blueprint for preventing species from becoming endangered. Key findings from this study show that there are already many states addressing the same common set of wildlife groups but more coordinated efforts between states is needed. Underrepresented taxonomic groups are bees, aquatic life, and plants with a need for greater comprehensive coverage of these taxa. Accessing accurate and current data will support more consistent and coordinated conservation efforts across states. Read the full news release here.

USFS Releases a Practical Guide to Forestry Feedstock Under EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) in collaboration with Strategic Biofuels, a renewable fuels project development company, has published a free Practical Guide that provides simple explanations for the information and documentation required for woody biomass to qualify for use as feedstock under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). RFS’s purpose is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and expand the U.S.’s renewable fuels sector. Qualified feedstock must come from logging operations, including pre-commercial thinnings or milling residues, though traceability can be an issue. Wood from wildfire-prone areas or tribal lands may be usable with specific Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approvals. A management plan is required for feedstock removal, and current conclusions may evolve as regulations change. Download the full guide by clicking here.

Climate Literacy Guide for More Effective Climate Education

The U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) has created a Climate Literacy Guide for educators, communicators, and decision-makers. This guide presents information that is important for individuals and communities to know about the impacts of climate change and possible solutions. The U.S. is suffering more frequent and intense climate-driven events, making climate literacy more important than ever. To download the guide for free, click here.

Carbon Market Resources for Educators

The Forest Owner Carbon and Climate Education (FOCCE) program, an organization dedicated to helping forest owners make smart decisions about engaging in the carbon economy, has put together a list of resources for carbon market educators. There are resources for multiple regions within the United States. These free resources include PowerPoint presentations, an educator guidebook, factsheets, a keyword vocabulary sheet, a climate opinion map and projection, and much more. These resources can be found here.

USFS Creates New Indigenous Communities Engagement Training

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has created a new training series on how to engage Indigenous communities. The first training aims to teach communicators about Indigenous perspectives, barriers to success, and climate change impacts. The second training provides multimedia resources that allow participants to listen to Native People talk about what is important to them. In the third training, a policy reference chart can be viewed to aid in the understanding of policy on public lands. Lastly, the fourth training shares case studies of past projects that were successful that can be used as an example for future projects. To access these trainings, click here.

This webinar is part of the Tree Week Series put on by the University of Kentucky (UK) Forestry and Natural Resources Extension.” Join these webinars to hear from experts about topics like tree planting, care and health, stream buffers, forestry careers, and more. Click here to register for the webinar series.

Effects of fire on ecosystem carbon in the Midwest and Eastern United States – A Primer

This webinar is part of the Tree Week Series put on by the University of Kentucky (UK) Forestry and Natural Resources Extension.” Join these webinars to hear from experts about topics like tree planting, care and health, stream buffers, forestry careers, and more. Click here to register for the webinar series.

The industrial sector, which includes manufacturers of iron, steel, cement, pulp and paper, petroleum refining, organic chemicals, and nitrogenous fertilizer, is an increasingly important area of focus for national greenhouse gas emissions mitigation policies. But unlike the power sector, many of these manufacturers’ production processes are proprietary and often quite complex, with limited public access. Click here to register.

Join the Department of the Interior’s Environmental Justice Steering Committee’s third webinar of its Environmental Justice Technical Assistance Webinar Series to learn about tips, tricks, and resources that can help with navigating available funding and access federal grants to benefit local communities and Tribes. Register here.

Yale Forest Forum – Conserving Mature and Old-Growth Forests in a Changing Climate

Managing the right species on the right site: Part 2 - Species selection

This webinar is part of the Tree Week Series put on by the University of Kentucky (UK) Forestry and Natural Resources Extension.” Join these webinars to hear from experts about topics like tree planting, care and health, stream buffers, forestry careers, and more. Click here to register for the webinar series.

This webinar is part of the Tree Week Series put on by the University of Kentucky (UK) Forestry and Natural Resources Extension.” Join these webinars to hear from experts about topics like tree planting, care and health, stream buffers, forestry careers, and more. Click here to register for the webinar series.

Future Directions for Hurricane Disturbed Forests

Southeast Monthly Webinar Series: Review of the Growing Season

Drought developed or worsened across Oklahoma over the summer. In September, Extreme Drought (D3) expanded over southwest Oklahoma, northwest Texas, and southern Kansas. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center’s seasonal outlooks predict increased chances for warmer- and drier-than-normal conditions through the end of the year across the Southern Plains and into adjacent states. In fact, parts of eastern Texas that experienced flooding in early summer are now likely to develop drought by mid-fall. Register here.

Register for this webinar here.

In this session, the speakers will describe what business continuity planning is, why it’s important to community-level resilience, and share examples from across the country. The session will also include interactive breakout groups where attendees will discuss what goes into planning an effective business continuity workshop. This is the second session of a four part series. Register here.

Coastal Forests as Sentinels of Climate Change and Sea Level Rise

This webinar bridges knowledge gaps by working with partners from state and federal agencies and nonprofits to leverage monitoring data from fish community surveys conducted by their organizations as well as fish occurrence data from ichthyological collections and public databases to quantify and map distributional range shifts and abundance changes of non-native fish over the past ~30 years in the biologically important Tennessee and Cumberland river basins. Species distribution modeling is used to identify stream segments projected to be at risk from continued invasions under future climates. Register here.

This webinar highlights three of the brightest forest-sector innovators that the Wood Products and Bioenergy Team is supporting. This webinar is appropriate for working foresters and forestry professionals both. Anyone invested in emerging forestry innovations, or just curious about the application of technology in the industry, is welcomed to learn more. SAF members can join for free. The registration fee for non-SAF members is $10. Click here to register.

This webinar is part of a series hosted by the Yale Forest School and the Society of American Foresters (SAF). This webinar series invites federal agency staff, private foresters, forestry researchers, and forest advocacy organizations to share how they are responding to and shaping the discussion on mature and old-growth forests. Attendees will learn from a series of experts representing Tribal Nations, university researchers, and non-profits exploring core challenges to this effort. Register here.

In "The Best Land," Susan Brewer traces the history of a parcel of land in central New York and the stories of the two families--her own European settler family and the Mohawk/Oneida family of Polly Denny--who called it home. Her talk considers the struggle over land, tales of pioneer progress, and native dispossession. Although these two families lived as neighbors for centuries, they clashed over beliefs and practices regarding the land and its forests, streams, and soils. Register here.

Clash and Connection on the Best Land

This one-hour webinar will provide an update of Hurricane Helene timber damage, and strategies for capturing losses for tax purposes, as well as an overview on various timber tax topics. Topics include timber basis, IRS distinctions between a business, investment or a hobby, what is a back cruise and when is it helpful in determining taxes, when to use form T, and a host of other helpful topics for a landowner considering tax implications and best strategies relating to timber. Register here.

This stress management workshop is designed to help participants understand and manage the unique stressors of farming. This webinar will explore the factors contributing to farm stress, recognize the symptoms and consequences, and learn how to measure personal stress levels. Using practical tools such as the ABC Model of Stress, this workshop will guide participants through fostering self-confidence and cultivating mindfulness as key strategies for managing stress. Tips on creating a positive state of mind and practicing stress management techniques will also be given. Click here to register.

This one-hour webinar will provide an update of Hurricane Helene timber damage, and strategies for capturing losses for tax purposes, as well as an overview on various timber tax topics. Topics include timber basis, IRS distinctions between a business, investment or a hobby, what is a back cruise and when is it helpful in determining taxes, when to use form T, and a host of other helpful topics for a landowner considering tax implications and best strategies relating to timber. Register here.

This one-hour webinar will provide an update of Hurricane Helene timber damage, and strategies for capturing losses for tax purposes, as well as an overview on various timber tax topics. Topics include timber basis, IRS distinctions between a business, investment or a hobby, what is a back cruise and when is it helpful in determining taxes, when to use form T, and a host of other helpful topics for a landowner considering tax implications and best strategies relating to timber. Register here.

This webinar is part of a series hosted by the Yale Forest School and the Society of American Foresters (SAF). This webinar series invites federal agency staff, private foresters, forestry researchers, and forest advocacy organizations to share how they are responding to and shaping the discussion on mature and old-growth forests. Attendees will learn from a series of experts representing Tribal Nations, university researchers, and non-profits exploring core challenges to this effort. Register here.

Explore strategies for restoring forests devastated by the emerald ash borer in this insightful webinar. Dr. Dustin Bronson will share expert guidance on post-ash silviculture, focusing on how to support lowland, riparian forests and what to plant for recovery. Register by clicking here.

Working with Private Landowners to Increase Prescribed Fire Capacity

This webinar is part of a series hosted by the Yale Forest School and the Society of American Foresters (SAF). This webinar series invites federal agency staff, private foresters, forestry researchers, and forest advocacy organizations to share how they are responding to and shaping the discussion on mature and old-growth forests. Attendees will learn from a series of experts representing Tribal Nations, university researchers, and non-profits exploring core challenges to this effort. Register here.

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

Naturally diverse plant communities do not resist invasion by the strong competitor, Microstegium vimineum

SC Women Owning Woodlands Fall 2024 Webinar Series: Benefits of Prescribed Fire

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

This webinar is part of a series hosted by the Yale Forest School and the Society of American Foresters (SAF). This webinar series invites federal agency staff, private foresters, forestry researchers, and forest advocacy organizations to share how they are responding to and shaping the discussion on mature and old-growth forests. Attendees will learn from a series of experts representing Tribal Nations, university researchers, and non-profits exploring core challenges to this effort. Register here.

Underplanting is the practice of introducing a new generation of trees under an existing overstory. This could be done to convert the stand to a different species, sometimes called “conversion with retention.” It can also be done with seedlings of the same species as the overstory if a multi-aged stand is desired, but natural regeneration is insufficient to achieve this structure. Some questions to be addressed: Why plant longleaf pine seedlings under an existing pine canopy? Is it possible to establish a longleaf pine stand without clearcutting? What preparation is needed for converting loblolly pine stands to longleaf pine dominance? How does one manage an underplanted stand to reduce damage and encourage growth? Click here to register.

Workforce Opportunity Webinar Series: Career Development

Creative Funding Opportunities

Southeast Monthly Webinar Series: ENSO and Winter Outlook

In this webinar, Dr. Andrew Loyd will discuss beech leaf disease (BLD) biology, impact, and potential management strategies. The American beech (Fagus grandifolia) plays a significant role in many forest ecosystems across the eastern US. It is an economically important, slow growing and shade tolerant tree which adds structural diversity to many forest types, and its nut production makes it a valuable food source for wildlife. Register here.

This presentation will define bottomland forests, discuss their function and silvicultural challenges, address which species to favor and outline some forest management practices that landowners can implement. Register here.

This presentation will define bottomland forests, discuss their function and silvicultural challenges, address which species to favor and outline some forest management practices that landowners can implement. Register here.

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

This presentation will include research associated with the publication “Complex and highly saturated soundscapes in restored oak woodlands reflect avian richness and abundance.” The research assessed whether soundscapes in an eastern North American woodland reflect biodiversity changes during restoration measured in a concurrent multitrophic field study. In five restored and five degraded woodland sites in Wisconsin, researchers sampled vegetation, measured arthropod biomass, conducted bird surveys, and recorded soundscapes for five days of every 15-day period from May to August 2022. Learn more by clicking here.

This presentation will include research associated with the publication “Complex and highly saturated soundscapes in restored oak woodlands reflect avian richness and abundance.” The research assessed whether soundscapes in an eastern North American woodland reflect biodiversity changes during restoration measured in a concurrent multitrophic field study. In five restored and five degraded woodland sites in Wisconsin, researchers sampled vegetation, measured arthropod biomass, conducted bird surveys, and recorded soundscapes for five days of every 15-day period from May to August 2022. Learn more by clicking here.

This presentation will include research associated with the publication “The Influence of Management Practice on the Snakes in Forest Food Webs.” Researchers investigated the effects of frequency of forest management on the trophic structure and resource use of snake communities in two pine forests under high and low frequencies of management (i.e., shorter fire return intervals and thinning versus longer fire return intervals and limited thinning). They sampled snakes, prey, and dominant basal resources across each site for three summers from 2018 to 2020. Using stable isotope analysis, they compared community-wide metrics of trophic structure and generated isotopic mixing models to determine the relative contribution of resources to snake consumers. Click here to learn more.

SC Women Owning Woodlands Fall 2024 Webinar Series: NRCS Cost Share Opportunities

Navigating Military Readiness Through Responsible Project Execution

SAF Urban Wood Network Webinar Series: USRW Standards

Creating Compelling Proposals

USDA Seeks Applications to Create and Save Jobs in Rural Areas

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is accepting funding applications for projects that will help rural businesses create and save jobs within their communities. USDA is making loans and grants available under the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) programs for the fiscal year 2025. Through the programs, USDA provides zero-interest loans to local utilities which they then provide to local businesses for projects to create and retain employment in rural areas. The USDA will be awarding approximately $50 million, with the largest loans being $2 million and the largest grants being $300,000. Applications are to be submitted to the USDA Rural Development State Office where the project is located at 4:30PM local time by the following dates: First Quarter – September 30th, Second Quarter – December 31st, Third Quarter – March 31st, 2025, or Fourth Quarter – June 30th, 2025. Click here for more information.

Chesapeake Bay Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction Grants

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP), is soliciting proposals for projects that will restore water quality and habitats of the Chesapeake Bay. Eligible applicants are non-profit organizations, state government agencies, local governments, municipal governments, Tribal governments and organizations, and educational institutions. NFWF estimates approximately $25-30 million will be awarded in grants with awards ranging from $500,000 to $2 million each. Proposals are due by November 5th.To learn more and apply, click here.

USDA NIFA Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Grants

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is awarding Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) research, education, and extension grants to improve rural economies, increase food production, stimulate the bioeconomy, mitigate impacts of climate variability, address water availability issues, ensure food safety and security, enhance human nutrition, and train the next generation of the agricultural workforce. The grants are provided to support six Farm Bill priority areas: (1) plant health and production and plant products, (2) animal health and production and animal products, (3) food safety, nutrition, and health, (4) bioenergy, natural resources, and environment, (5) agriculture systems and technology, and (6) agriculture economics and rural Communities. There are several different grants available with closing dates ranging from September 30 through December 31. Click here to learn more.

Texas A&M Forest Service Staff Forester, Fire Coordinator, Specialist Positions- Multiple Locations

Texas A&M Forest Service is hiring for multiple positions. A Program Specialist and Program Coordinator are being hired in College Station, TX, a Regional Coordinator in Lufkin, TX, a Regional Operations Chief and a Fire Coordinator in San Angelo, TX, a Resource Specialist in Nacogdoches, TX, a Fire Coordinator in Edinburg, TX, a Staff Forester / Woodland Ecologist in La Grange, TX, and a Regional Coordinator in Austin, TX. Learn more about each title's qualifications and responsibilities here.

Forest Products Specialist- WI DNR

The Forest Products Specialist will provide detailed knowledge of the forest resource and forest products industry in Wisconsin and be a key internal and external consultant for staff, leadership, inter-divisional teams, and partner groups. This position has statewide responsibilities and can be headquartered at most offices throughout the state. Learn more here.

Natural Resources Specialist (University of Maryland Extension)

The Natural Resources Specialist serves statewide and provides leadership for educational program development, delivery, and evaluation on a variety of natural resources and environmental sciences topics including forest management, soil and water conservation, environmental science topics and other related issues. The Specialist will facilitate partnerships with university colleagues, local, state, and federal agencies, forestry/natural resource associations, nonprofit organizations, and others to develop relevant educational products and programs. 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.

Endowed Director of the Wood Utilization and Design Institute (Clemson University)

The position is a 12-month faculty (or faculty equivalent) appointment with responsibilities in external relations and industry partnerships, facilitation of collaborative grantsmanship and research, public policy and government affairs, building collaborations within and outside of Clemson University, and WU D administration. Although this position does not have a formal teaching assignment, there will be opportunities for guest lecturing, seminar organization, and speaking engagements to represent Clemson WU D. The successful candidate will lead a group of dedicated and innovative faculty, research scientists, students, and staff committed to professional and inclusive excellence. Learn more and apply here.

Extension Associate in Prescribed Fire and Fire Science (NCSU)

This is a 12-month recurring, full-time, professional staff position. The successful candidate will have a combination of knowledge, skills and experience that will allow them to work in areas relevant to prescribed fire and fire science. Responsibilities include providing leadership for the development, delivery, and evaluation of educational programming and materials with an emphasis on prescribed fire and fire science, assisting with project management, and other responsibilities associated with both the Southeast Regional Partnership for Planning and Sustainability (SERPPAS) and the Southern Fire Exchange, and supporting North Carolina State Uuniversity’s (NCSU) student fire training program. Apply here.

Wildlife Faculty Positions – Three Positions (LSU Ag Center)

LSU invites applications from emerging and established scholars for three tenure-track or tenured appointments and one instructor position. The appointments may be tenure-track at the rank of Assistant Professor or Associate Professor, or tenured at the rank of Associate Professor or Professor, depending on qualifications and experience. Except for the instructor, all positions will have 12-month appointments with primary responsibilities in research (60%) and teaching (40%). Spousal/partner hires will be considered for qualified applicants: we encourage qualified couples to apply if their skills align with the positions. Click here to learn more an apply.

Assistant/Associate Professor Spatial Technologies (Mississippi State University)

This position is a tenure-track, full-time, 9-month appointment. The successful candidate will be expected to teach on-campus and distance-learning undergraduate and graduate courses including Spatial Technologies in Natural Resources Management, Remote Sensing Applications, GIS for Natural Resources Management, and a graduate course in the candidate’s area of expertise. The successful candidate will also be expected to develop an extramurally funded research program in areas such as geospatial assessment of natural resources, precision forestry, or quantification of carbon storage and ecosystem services using passive (e.g., spectral reflectance) and/or active (e.g., LiDAR) sensors. A Ph.D. in Forestry, Natural Resources, or a closely related discipline is required. To apply, click 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.

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.

Director of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry (Louisiana Tech University)

This is a 12-month administrative position. The Director is responsible for long-range vision and planning, resource development, faculty and student recruitment, faculty development, comprehensive financial planning, facilitating faculty research and teaching, and management of the academic and farm units. This position is also expected to seek out and coordinate outreach and service activities, in addition to external relations with the agricultural, forestry, and rural communities through commodity and industry organizations, small business development organizations, and youth organizations (FFA and 4-H). The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills with students, faculty, staff, peers, and administrators. Apply here.

Assistant Professor in Global Change Ecology (Virginia Tech)

Virginia Tech invites applicants for the position of assistant professor in global change ecology as part of a campus-wide hiring initiative focusing on the grand challenge of invasive species. They seek a candidate with interest and experience in invasion science through the lens of invasion ecology, ecosystem disturbance, and/or novelty in terrestrial ecosystems. This is a full-time, tenure-track, 9-month appointment with primary responsibilities in research and teaching. The successful candidate will lead a vibrant, externally funded research program that is recognized for scientific excellence, mentor a diverse population of graduate and undergraduate students, and provide high-quality instruction. A Ph.D. or equivalent at the time of appointment in a discipline closely related to global change ecology is required. Apply and learn more by clicking here.

SEAFWA 78th Annual Conference

Forisk Hosts Timber Market Analysis Class

Certified Prescribed Burn Workshop with LDAF Certification

Learn the role of trees in water quality, participate in a scavenger hunt for native trees and perennials and even plant a few new trees along the streambank. This event is hosted by the University of Kentucky with guest speakers Katherine Bulloch and Kristine Goggin. Click here to learn more.

This conference is one of the largest gatherings of wildlife professionals and supporters in North America. For over 30 years, TWS has hosted this unique and informative event that spotlights the latest advancements in wildlife management and research while providing abundant opportunities for networking and career advancement. Online registration is now closed but onsite registration will be available. More information can be found here.

Florida Forests & Water Forum

Specialized training in wood drying for wood industry personnel conducted by UK Forestry extension at the Robinson Wood Utilization Center. Register here.

Extension Disaster Education Network 2024 Annual Conference

Sustainable Forestry & Land Retention Project Landowner

Generation NEXT Legacy Planning Workshop 

Innovation in Mass Timber Solutions (IMTS) Conference 

Mississippi State University (MSU) Southern Rural Development Center will be hosting this train-the-trainer workshop opportunity. This workshop is designed for Land-Grant professionals for the purpose of the training families and communities in their local area. More information can be found here on the project’s website. Click here to access the registration form.

Tennessee Forests & Water Forum

Mississippi State University (MSU) Southern Rural Development Center will be hosting this train-the-trainer workshop opportunity. This workshop is designed for Land-Grant professionals for the purpose of the training families and communities in their local area. More information can be found here on the project’s website. Click here to access the registration form.

CEUs available from the following: The Wildlife Society, International Society of Arboriculture, Society of American Foresters, Texas Pro Logger Program, Texas Accredited Forester Council, and Texas Department of Agriculture. Click here to register.

82nd annual Professional Agricultural Workers Conference (PAWC)

Partners in Community Forestry Conference

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

Woodland Owners Retreat

This conference will bring together public and private sector educators, crop insurance agents, lenders, and other agricultural professionals to share ongoing and emerging successful risk management education efforts that target agricultural producers and their families. Conference participants will learn about what is working to help producers effectively manage the financial, production, marketing, legal and human risks associated with their agribusinesses. Registration opens December 2024. Click here to visit the conference’s website.

National Forum on Biological Control

International Symposium on Biogeochemistry of Wetlands and Aquatic Systems

38th Forest Products Machinery & Equipment EXPO