The Southern Regional Extension of Forestry

Issue 182: Week of November 18th, 2024

Recent News

Regional News

• NCFS Estimates $214 million in Hurricane Damaged Timber
• Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Downlisted from Endangered to Threatened
• SE Regional Partnership for Planning & Sustainability (SERPPAS) Releases New Strategic Plan
• Auburn University Research Focuses on Utilizing & Salvaging Storm-Damaged Timber
• GA Forestry Foundation Launches the Georgia Mass Timber Accelerator Program for 3 New Projects
• MSU Hosts the 4th annual AI in Agriculture Conference in Starkville, MS
• Knowledge Management Strategies for Rural Extension Networks

National News

• New Research May Help City Planners Meet Their Heat Mitigation Goals
• SAF Shares New Summary Report from the Mature and Old Growth Science Summit
• Report on Assessment of Land-Grant Universities’ Ability to Promote Outdoor Recreation Economies Near National Forests
• NDA Article Explains Why White-Tailed Deer are so Difficult to Find During Courtship
• EPA Releases Air Quality Guidance Documents for Exceptional Events Demonstration Template for Prescribed Fire on Wildland

Funding Opportunities

• USDA Seeks Applications to Create and Save Jobs in Rural Areas
• USDA NIFA Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Grants
• Rural Business Development Grants- For Training, Feasibility Studies, Community Economic Development & More!
• USFS Wood Innovations Funding Opportunity Program- Accelerate Wood Products & Wood Energy Markets
• USFS Community Wood Grant Program- Install Thermal Wood Energy System or Expand Innovative Wood Product Facility
• USFS Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance (WPIA) Grant Program- Financial Assistance to Facilities that Process Byproducts from Ecosystem Restoration Projects
• USFS Urban & Community Forestry Program Grant for Communities to Acquire & Establish Community Forests
• USDA to Begin Issuing $2.14 Billion to Agricultural Producers through Key Conservation and Safety-Net Programs
• Forest Legacy Program Announcement - 2024 IRA Round 2 Project Awards

Webinars

Access previously listed webinars here.

• Essential Skills: Managing for Trust
• Beech Leaf Disease: An Emerging Threat to the Queen of the Forest the American Beech
• Biochar-based removal of emerging contaminants from recycled water used for agricultural irrigation
• Forest Management Strategies for Local Phenotypes and Species Diversity  
• Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management Stewardship Series
• Complex and highly saturated soundscapes in restored oak woodlands reflect avian richness and abundance
• How will future climate change impact prescribed fire across the contiguous United States?
• Yale Forest Forum 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
• Site Considerations Before Establishing a New Seed Orchard
• A Bird’s Eye View of Habitat
• Frontiers in Forest Health: Mycorrhizal Network Misinformation
• Arborist Short Course Series
• Tree Tenders Training Series
• Woods in Your Backyard Series

Job Opportunities

• Assistant/Associate Professor & Extension Specialist Natural Resources Science Communication
• UKY Dept. of Forestry & Natural Resources Dept. Chair
• Director of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry (Louisiana Tech University)
• Extension Professional (Georgia Tech)
• Assistant or Associate Professor in Program and Staff Development (Mississippi State)
• Asst/Assoc. Outreach Professor & Extension Specialist of Natural Resources Science Communication (University of Georgia)
• Asst/Assoc. Professor of Biomaterials (University of Georgia)
• Asst/Assoc. Professor of Precision Forestry (University of Georgia)

Auburn University Research Focuses on Utilizing & Salvaging Storm-Damaged Timber

Multiple research projects from Auburn University's College of Forestry, Wildlife, and Environment's focus on salvaging and utilizing downed timber following hurricanes like Hurricanes Helene and Milton. They are developing and studying innovative methods for assessing, recovering, and repurposing storm-damaged timber and are conducting the research via funding from a $1.05 million federal appropriation to the U.S Forest Service (USFS). Current projects include developing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) mapping techniques, adapting harvesting equipment to harvest downed timber more efficiently, and creating rapid quality assessment tools to help landowners salvage economically viable wood. As part of this grant, researchers are also exploring new markets for downed timber including sustainable packaging and carbon-sequestering wood products. The end goal of these research projects is to enhance the timber industry’s resilience in hurricane-prone areas. Read more here.

GA Forestry Foundation Launches the Georgia Mass Timber Accelerator Program for 3 New Projects

The Georgia Forestry Foundation (GFF), in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the Softwood Lumber Board (SLB), has selected three projects to be part of their Georgia Mass Timber Accelerator program. The Mass Timber Accelerator program promotes building structures with a lower carbon building footprint through the use of mass timber instead of other conventional building materials. This program is part of a long-term strategy to create Mass Timber Hubs in key cities across the state, aimed at fostering local engagements and collaboration between architects, engineers, developers, and city planners. Selected project teams will receive both technical and financial assistance to develop their mass timber projects. Teams will receive expert technical assistance from WoodWorks, a non-profit organization that provides free resources and technical support to developers and construction teams working with wood. WoodWorks will also conduct a high-level carbon accounting analysis for each project. The three projects selected are: (1) a four-story mixes-use commercial building in Atlanta, (2) Chattahoochee Nature Center Welcome Center in Roswell, and (3) a four-story residential building in Savannah. Learn more about the selected projects here.

MSU Hosts the 4th annual AI in Agriculture Conference in Starkville, MS

Mississippi State University (MSU) is hosting the 4th annual Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Agriculture conference in Starkville, MS. The conference is being held from March 31st through April 2nd, 2025. The theme of this conference is "the role of AI in autonomous agricultural systems and socioeconomic effects." The conference has opened submissions for oral and student poster presentation abstracts and the deadlines for oral abstracts is January 6th, 2025 and for student poster presentation abstracts February 14th, 2025. Registration for the conference is $425 until January 31st, 2025 with discounts for student and virtual attendees. Learn more about the 4th annual AI in Agriculture conference by clicking here.

Knowledge Management Strategies for Rural Extension Networks

An extension professor at the University of Georgia (UGA), Kevan Lamm, wrote a blog post that identifies key components for successful knowledge management in rural advisory service (RAS) networks. The article describes knowledge management as the creation, coordination, transfer, and integration of knowledge so it is accessible and usable by stakeholders. The article, which is partly based on a published study from 2017 (found in the Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, here) is to provide a foundation for implementing effective knowledge management strategies. The key components for this strategy include regular in-person meetings and collaborative activities, building a network to share information and resources, making resources easily available to stakeholders, fostering a supportive culture, and centralizing documents and lessons learned. To read the blog post and find the link to the journal article, click here.

NCFS Estimates $214 million in Hurricane Damaged Timber

North Carolina Forest Service’s (NCFS) timber damage assessment following Hurricane Helene included an estimated 822,000 acres of timberland damaged during Hurricane Helene with an estimated $214 million Losses. NCFS has published timber salvage contract documents that include suggested terms/language to help affected landowners navigate salvage logging contracts. Some of these suggestions include listing a timeframe for the timber to be cut, requiring buyer liability and property insurance, signatures and notarization, and much more. Read the NCFS summary here, and read an ABC13 News article about these damages here. The NCFS timber salvage contract suggestions can be found here. More hurricane and natural disaster forestry resources can be found here.

Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Downlisted from Endangered to Threatened

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is downlisting the red-cockaded woodpecker’s (RCW) status from endangered to threatened under the Endangered Species Act. This milestone was made possible through five decades of collaborative conservation efforts between the Department of the Interior (DOI), federal and state partners, Tribes, and private landowners that have increased populations throughout their range. While RCW’s status has improved, it remains a threatened species, at risk of becoming endangered again due to habitat loss, weather events like hurricanes, ice storms, and wildfires. Despite the RCW’s downlisting, there are groups that believe the downlisting to be premature, claiming USFWS has not met its own scientific recovery plan criteria. Read the DOI’s press release here. Check out an article about this downlisting  on the GreenWire newsletter, which is part of the Energy and Environment section of the Politico news website, by clicking here.

SE Regional Partnership for Planning & Sustainability (SERPPAS) Releases New Strategic Plan

The Southeast Regional Partnership for Planning and Sustainability (SERPPAS) released a new strategic plan in June of this year. SERPPAS is guided by a strategic plan that describes a set of objectives to help advance conservation efforts. All of these objectives involve federal and state partners, relying heavily on military involvement. The new strategic plan focuses on 5 key topics: (1) the Sentinel Landscapes Partnership, established to conserve natural resources, increase climate change resilience, and support rural economies; (2) an At-Risk, Threatened, and Endangered Species Work Group, developed to conserve at-risk  and listed species; (3) a Prescribed Fire Work Group that will promote prescribed fire as a land management tool while limiting the risk of wildfire; (4) a Coastal Resilience and Regional Adaptation Work Group that will foster collaboration among partners and implement projects that increase resilience for military installations; and (5) an Energy Work Group to promote effective use of new or existing tools for energy projects. The strategic plan can be found here and includes summaries on the key topics. A story map that can be found here shares the efforts of SERPPAS and partners in longleaf ecosystems, including the fire-dependent species associated with longleaf.

New Research May Help City Planners Meet Their Heat Mitigation Goals

A recent article published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences summarizes research related to planning tools that could assist cities with planning tree-planting initiatives to maximize trees’ cooling effects. An article on Science blog, summarizes the results of this study. The researchers conducted a scaling analysis of cooling efficiency, the temperature reduction associated with a 1% increase to urban tree canopy, to predict whole-city CE in 4 major cities: Sacramento, CA; Baltimore, MD; Beijing, China; and Shenzhen, China. The scaling analysis revealed that cooling efficiency follows the power law, where a change in urban tree canopy results in a proportional relative change in heat, as the spatial scale increases from small units to the extent of a whole city. This research will help city planners with tree-planting initiatives by giving them an objective method to predict the amount of additional tree cover needed to achieve specific heat mitigation and climate adaptation goals. To read the blogpost and find the article, click here.

SAF Shares New Summary Report from the Mature and Old Growth Science Summit

Earlier this year, the Society of American Foresters (SAF) convened The Mature and Old Growth Science Summit to share scientific research around mature and old growth (MOG) forest conservation. SAF developed a report based on findings from the summit, called Summary Report of the Mature and Old Growth Science Summit. In addition to summaries of each plenary session and regional breakout session, the report also includes the findings of the MOG Inventory and Threat Analysis, a stand structure-based approach to define diverse MOG forests. The full report can be found here.

Report on Assessment of Land-Grant Universities’ Ability to Promote Outdoor Recreation Economies Near National Forests

The Extension Foundation, a non-profit organization that helps Cooperative Extension professionals improve their impact on local issues, has published a new research report titled Land-Grant University Capacity to Support Recreation Economies in National Forest Gateway Communities. This report summarizes results from a study  that assessed the ability of Land-Grant Universities’ (LGUs) to align with a 2022 USDA memorandum of understanding (MOU), that emphasizes outdoor recreation economies as a key agency priority. The report identified specific locations near national forests that are best equipped to allocate resources for recreation economy programs. The results are organized by region to make it easier to find relevant information for different locations. Read the publication here.

NDA Article Explains Why White-Tailed Deer are so Difficult to Find During Courtship

The hours-long courtship between a buck and a doe, commonly called “tending” is rarely witnessed. The National Deer Association (NDA) has released an article explaining why and how to find white-tailed deer during this time. NDA identified wildlife photographers as the people who have witnessed it the most. The photographers interviewed stated that, because tending only lasts 24 to 48 hours, it can be difficult to be in the right place at the right time to capture it. Additionally, the buck will herd the doe to a more hidden location at night to prevent interference from other competitor bucks. To find tending deer, look in weed fields and listen for vocalizations and the sound of the buck thrashing brush. To learn more about these deer behaviors, click here.

EPA Releases Air Quality Guidance Documents for Exceptional Events Demonstration Template for Prescribed Fire on Wildland

Earlier this month, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released an Exceptional Events Rule, guidance documents, and other implementation resources intended to assist air agencies with the preparation of exceptional events demonstrations like prescribed fires, wildfires, dust storms, air quality violations, and others. An Exceptional Event is “an unusual or naturally occurring event that can affect air quality, but is not reasonably controllable using techniques that tribal, state or local air agencies may implement in order to attain and maintain the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS).” Of specific importance is the new Exceptional Events Demonstration Template for Prescribed Fire on wildland that may influence fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations. The guidance documents cover prescribed fire as well as high winds, data modification, stratospheric ozone, and wildfire. The agency also updated a set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on exceptional events to clarify information relating to prescribed fire and private landowners. The EPA developed these products to improve and support an efficient process for demonstrating that wildland prescribed fire events impacted air concentrations of PM2.5. These new tools are identified by a “new” flag and are available on the agency’s exceptional events website. Additional resources include air quality maps, factsheets, a smoke and wildfire map, a best practices document, and much more. To access these resources, click here.

This series explores the significance of diverse habitats through the eyes of iconic bird species such as the Bobwhite Quail, Ruffed Grouse, Wood Thrush, Golden-winged Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, and Piping Plover. Attendees will gain insights into the biology and ecology of these birds while learning practical strategies for managing and promoting their habitats. Although the series centers on these select species, creating a variety of habitats will benefit countless other wildlife, plant, and fungal species, enhancing overall ecosystem health. Register by November 20th. Click here to register and learn more.

Essential Skills: Managing for Trust

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

Biochar-based removal of emerging contaminants from recycled water used for agricultural irrigation

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

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 series explores the significance of diverse habitats through the eyes of iconic bird species such as the Bobwhite Quail, Ruffed Grouse, Wood Thrush, Golden-winged Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, and Piping Plover. Attendees will gain insights into the biology and ecology of these birds while learning practical strategies for managing and promoting their habitats. Although the series centers on these select species, creating a variety of habitats will benefit countless other wildlife, plant, and fungal species, enhancing overall ecosystem health. Register by November 20th. Click here to register and learn more.

Forest Management Strategies for Local Phenotypes and Species Diversity  

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

This series explores the significance of diverse habitats through the eyes of iconic bird species such as the Bobwhite Quail, Ruffed Grouse, Wood Thrush, Golden-winged Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, and Piping Plover. Attendees will gain insights into the biology and ecology of these birds while learning practical strategies for managing and promoting their habitats. Although the series centers on these select species, creating a variety of habitats will benefit countless other wildlife, plant, and fungal species, enhancing overall ecosystem health. Register by November 20th. Click here to register and learn more.

Complex and highly saturated soundscapes in restored oak woodlands reflect avian richness and abundance

This series explores the significance of diverse habitats through the eyes of iconic bird species such as the Bobwhite Quail, Ruffed Grouse, Wood Thrush, Golden-winged Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, and Piping Plover. Attendees will gain insights into the biology and ecology of these birds while learning practical strategies for managing and promoting their habitats. Although the series centers on these select species, creating a variety of habitats will benefit countless other wildlife, plant, and fungal species, enhancing overall ecosystem health. Register by November 20th. Click here to register and learn more.

How will future climate change impact prescribed fire across the contiguous United States?

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

This series explores the significance of diverse habitats through the eyes of iconic bird species such as the Bobwhite Quail, Ruffed Grouse, Wood Thrush, Golden-winged Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, and Piping Plover. Attendees will gain insights into the biology and ecology of these birds while learning practical strategies for managing and promoting their habitats. Although the series centers on these select species, creating a variety of habitats will benefit countless other wildlife, plant, and fungal species, enhancing overall ecosystem health. Register by November 20th. Click here to register and learn more.

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

This series explores the significance of diverse habitats through the eyes of iconic bird species such as the Bobwhite Quail, Ruffed Grouse, Wood Thrush, Golden-winged Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, and Piping Plover. Attendees will gain insights into the biology and ecology of these birds while learning practical strategies for managing and promoting their habitats. Although the series centers on these select species, creating a variety of habitats will benefit countless other wildlife, plant, and fungal species, enhancing overall ecosystem health. Register by November 20th. Click here to register and learn more.

Navigating Military Readiness Through Responsible Project Execution

SAF Urban Wood Network Webinar Series: USRW Standards

Creating Compelling Proposals

Site Considerations Before Establishing a New Seed Orchard

This series explores the significance of diverse habitats through the eyes of iconic bird species such as the Bobwhite Quail, Ruffed Grouse, Wood Thrush, Golden-winged Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, and Piping Plover. Attendees will gain insights into the biology and ecology of these birds while learning practical strategies for managing and promoting their habitats. Although the series centers on these select species, creating a variety of habitats will benefit countless other wildlife, plant, and fungal species, enhancing overall ecosystem health. Register by November 20th. Click here to register and learn more.

This webinar is part of the Arborist Short Course Series by PennState. The series is designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills. Successful completion of the ten-day Arborist Short Course Series will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, as well as improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course is designed to allow participants to view lectures live or recordings and take the required quizzes to complete the course and receive a certificate of completion and ISA CEUs. Register by clicking here.

This is part of the Tree Tenders Training, hosted by PennState. Through the Tree Tenders training program, developed by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society in partnership with Penn State Extension Urban Foresters, participants will gain the skills needed to restore and care for your community's tree canopy. This program empowers individuals to take meaningful action by learning how to plant, prune, and maintain trees, directly contributing to environmental health and sustainability. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Arborist Short Course Series by PennState. The series is designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills. Successful completion of the ten-day Arborist Short Course Series will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, as well as improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course is designed to allow participants to view lectures live or recordings and take the required quizzes to complete the course and receive a certificate of completion and ISA CEUs. Register by clicking here.

This webinar is part of the Arborist Short Course Series by PennState. The series is designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills. Successful completion of the ten-day Arborist Short Course Series will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, as well as improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course is designed to allow participants to view lectures live or recordings and take the required quizzes to complete the course and receive a certificate of completion and ISA CEUs. Register by clicking here.

This is part of the Tree Tenders Training, hosted by PennState. Through the Tree Tenders training program, developed by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society in partnership with Penn State Extension Urban Foresters, participants will gain the skills needed to restore and care for your community's tree canopy. This program empowers individuals to take meaningful action by learning how to plant, prune, and maintain trees, directly contributing to environmental health and sustainability. Register here.

Explore the fascinating world of mycorrhizal fungi and uncover the truth behind common misconceptions in this engaging webinar. Mycorrhizal fungi play a crucial role in helping trees and plants access essential nutrients, forming intricate relationships with individual plants and even spreading across vast forest ecosystems. However, misinformation about these unique organisms is widespread. Join this webinar to gain a clear understanding of mycorrhizal fungi, the challenges scientists face in studying them, and their essential functions within forest health. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Woods in Your Backyard Series, designed specifically, but not exclusively, for smaller landscapes. Join this webinar to learn how landowners can positively influence the environment by implementing simple stewardship practices. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Arborist Short Course Series by PennState. The series is designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills. Successful completion of the ten-day Arborist Short Course Series will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, as well as improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course is designed to allow participants to view lectures live or recordings and take the required quizzes to complete the course and receive a certificate of completion and ISA CEUs. Register by clicking here.

This webinar is part of the Arborist Short Course Series by PennState. The series is designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills. Successful completion of the ten-day Arborist Short Course Series will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, as well as improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course is designed to allow participants to view lectures live or recordings and take the required quizzes to complete the course and receive a certificate of completion and ISA CEUs. Register by clicking here.

This is part of the Tree Tenders Training, hosted by PennState. Through the Tree Tenders training program, developed by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society in partnership with Penn State Extension Urban Foresters, participants will gain the skills needed to restore and care for your community's tree canopy. This program empowers individuals to take meaningful action by learning how to plant, prune, and maintain trees, directly contributing to environmental health and sustainability. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Woods in Your Backyard Series, designed specifically, but not exclusively, for smaller landscapes. Join this webinar to learn how landowners can positively influence the environment by implementing simple stewardship practices. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Arborist Short Course Series by PennState. The series is designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills. Successful completion of the ten-day Arborist Short Course Series will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, as well as improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course is designed to allow participants to view lectures live or recordings and take the required quizzes to complete the course and receive a certificate of completion and ISA CEUs. Register by clicking here.

This webinar is part of the Arborist Short Course Series by PennState. The series is designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills. Successful completion of the ten-day Arborist Short Course Series will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, as well as improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course is designed to allow participants to view lectures live or recordings and take the required quizzes to complete the course and receive a certificate of completion and ISA CEUs. Register by clicking here.

This is part of the Tree Tenders Training, hosted by PennState. Through the Tree Tenders training program, developed by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society in partnership with Penn State Extension Urban Foresters, participants will gain the skills needed to restore and care for your community's tree canopy. This program empowers individuals to take meaningful action by learning how to plant, prune, and maintain trees, directly contributing to environmental health and sustainability. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Woods in Your Backyard Series, designed specifically, but not exclusively, for smaller landscapes. Join this webinar to learn how landowners can positively influence the environment by implementing simple stewardship practices. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Arborist Short Course Series by PennState. The series is designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills. Successful completion of the ten-day Arborist Short Course Series will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, as well as improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course is designed to allow participants to view lectures live or recordings and take the required quizzes to complete the course and receive a certificate of completion and ISA CEUs. Register by clicking here.

This webinar is part of the Arborist Short Course Series by PennState. The series is designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills. Successful completion of the ten-day Arborist Short Course Series will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, as well as improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course is designed to allow participants to view lectures live or recordings and take the required quizzes to complete the course and receive a certificate of completion and ISA CEUs. Register by clicking here.

This webinar is part of the Woods in Your Backyard Series, designed specifically, but not exclusively, for smaller landscapes. Join this webinar to learn how landowners can positively influence the environment by implementing simple stewardship practices. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Arborist Short Course Series by PennState. The series is designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills. Successful completion of the ten-day Arborist Short Course Series will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, as well as improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course is designed to allow participants to view lectures live or recordings and take the required quizzes to complete the course and receive a certificate of completion and ISA CEUs. Register by clicking here.

This webinar is part of the Woods in Your Backyard Series, designed specifically, but not exclusively, for smaller landscapes. Join this webinar to learn how landowners can positively influence the environment by implementing simple stewardship practices. Register here.

This is part of the Tree Tenders Training, hosted by PennState. Through the Tree Tenders training program, developed by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society in partnership with Penn State Extension Urban Foresters, participants will gain the skills needed to restore and care for your community's tree canopy. This program empowers individuals to take meaningful action by learning how to plant, prune, and maintain trees, directly contributing to environmental health and sustainability. Register here.

This is part of the Tree Tenders Training, hosted by PennState. Through the Tree Tenders training program, developed by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society in partnership with Penn State Extension Urban Foresters, participants will gain the skills needed to restore and care for your community's tree canopy. This program empowers individuals to take meaningful action by learning how to plant, prune, and maintain trees, directly contributing to environmental health and sustainability. Register here.

This is part of the Tree Tenders Training, hosted by PennState. Through the Tree Tenders training program, developed by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society in partnership with Penn State Extension Urban Foresters, participants will gain the skills needed to restore and care for your community's tree canopy. This program empowers individuals to take meaningful action by learning how to plant, prune, and maintain trees, directly contributing to environmental health and sustainability. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Woods in Your Backyard Series, designed specifically, but not exclusively, for smaller landscapes. Join this webinar to learn how landowners can positively influence the environment by implementing simple stewardship practices. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Woods in Your Backyard Series, designed specifically, but not exclusively, for smaller landscapes. Join this webinar to learn how landowners can positively influence the environment by implementing simple stewardship practices. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Woods in Your Backyard Series, designed specifically, but not exclusively, for smaller landscapes. Join this webinar to learn how landowners can positively influence the environment by implementing simple stewardship practices. Register here.

This webinar is part of the Woods in Your Backyard Series, designed specifically, but not exclusively, for smaller landscapes. Join this webinar to learn how landowners can positively influence the environment by implementing simple stewardship practices. Register here.

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.

Rural Business Development Grants- For Training, Feasibility Studies, Community Economic Development & More!

The U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking proposals for its Rural Business Development Grants program that will promote rural economic development and job creation projects through the awarding of grant funds. Applications will compete in two separate categories, business opportunity grants and business enterprise grants. Eligible applicants are public body/government entities, Indian Tribes, and nonprofit entities primarily serving rural areas. Rural Business Development Grant money must be used for projects that benefit rural areas or towns outside the urbanized periphery of any city with a population of 50,000 or more. There is no maximum grant amount, but smaller requests will be given higher priority. Grant funds can be used for many different things from training & technical assistance to acquisition of land, easements, capitalization of revolving loan funds, rural distance learning for job training, community economic development, feasibility studies and more! Completed applications may be submitted in paper or electronic format and must be received by 4:30 PM local time on February 28, 2025. Learn more here.

USFS Wood Innovations Funding Opportunity Program- Accelerate Wood Products & Wood Energy Markets

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has announced the availability of funding to support projects that will substantially expand and accelerate wood products and wood energy markets throughout the United States to support forest management needs on National Forest System and other forest lands. The agency plans to award up to $8 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. Eligible applicants are for-profit entities, state, and local governments, Indian Tribes, school districts,

community not-for-profit organizations, institutions of higher education, and special purpose districts. The maximum amount for each award is generally $300,000 but the USFS will consider up to $500,00 to proposals with a significant impact on wood products or energy markets. The application deadline is December 11 at 5:00PM local time. To learn more, click here.

USFS Urban & Community Forestry Program Grant for Communities to Acquire & Establish Community Forests

The USDA Forest Service (USFS) Urban & Community Forest Program has released a new funding opportunity. The Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program is a competitive grant program administered by the USFS that provides funding for communities to acquire and establish community forests. The program targets private forests that are threatened by conversion to non-forest uses and empowers communities to steward the places they cherish. Since 2012, the Community Forest Program has conserved over 37,000 acres and supported 103 community-driven projects across 30 States and territories. The Fiscal Year 2025 Community Forest Program Request for Applications (RFA) is now available! The full Request for Applications, along with application guidance and scoring guidance, are available on Grants.gov (Opportunity Number: USDA-FS-2025-CFP). These documents can be found under the ‘Related Documents’ tab and are downloadable as a zipped file. Additional resources and information about the program are available on the Community Forest Program website. Applications are due to State Foresters or equivalent Tribal government officials by January 13, 2025. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to contact and work with a regional CFP coordinator during the application process and before submission.

USDA to Begin Issuing $2.14 Billion to Agricultural Producers through Key Conservation and Safety-Net Programs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that it will begin issuing more than $2.14 billion in payments to eligible agricultural producers, and landowners—providing much needed support through key conservation and safety-net programs. Producers should soon receive payments from USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) for their participation in these programs aimed to conserve natural resources and keep family farms economically viable. Specifically, program participants are expected to receive more than $1.7 billion through the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and CRP Transition Incentive Program (CRP TIP) and more than $447 million through the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Prices Loss Coverage (ARC/PLC) programs. Additionally, FSA is announcing an investment of $21 million for projects to better measure the effectiveness of CRP. For more information 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.

USFS Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance (WPIA) Grant Program- Financial Assistance to Facilities that Process Byproducts from Ecosystem Restoration Projects

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) is announcing the availability of up to $20 million of financial assistance to facilities that purchase and process byproducts from ecosystem restoration projects in areas at risk of unnaturally severe wildfire or insect or disease infestation. The total available funding will be up to $20 million with a minimum request amount of $50,000 and a maximum request of $1 million. Eligible applicants are for-profit entities, state, local governments, Indian Tribes, school districts, communities, not-for-profit organizations, institutions of higher education, and special purpose districts. There is no match required for proposals. Applicantions are due by December 18 at 5:00PM. To learn more, click here.

USFS Community Wood Grant Program- Install Thermal Wood Energy System or Expand Innovative Wood Product Facility

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) is announcing the availability of Community Wood grant funding to install a thermally led community wood energy system or build or expand an innovative wood product facility. The agency plans to award up to $6 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Eligible applicants are non-profits, local, state, and tribal governments, businesses, companies, corporations (for profit), institutions of higher education, and special purpose districts. The maximum for each award is $1 million to pay for up to 35% of total capital costs. The Forest Service may consider awarding up to $1.5 million (for up to 50% of total capital costs) to proposals located in areas of high unemployment. The application is due by December 18 at 5:00PM local time. To learn more, click here.

Forest Legacy Program Announcement -2024 IRA Round 2 Project Awards

Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Forest Service announced an investment of more than $265 million to conserve nearly 335,000 acres of ecologically and economically significant forestlands across the nation, in partnership with states across the country, thanks to funding from President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. Through the Forest Legacy Program, states work with Tribes, local communities, and landowners to identify important private forestlands and develop proposals to conserve these lands as forests. The Forest Service selects the top proposals for funding through a competitive, entirely voluntary process and provides grant funding to participating states so they may implement the work. Some of this land will stay in private ownership and will be permanently protected and conserved as forests, while states will also purchase other parcels to be managed as public land. The news release is available here. Project funding details are available on the Forest Legacy Program website here.

Heating Monitoring Funding Opportunity for Communities

The Center for Collaborative Heat Monitoring (CCHM) directly supports communities through a co-developed community science project, training, and a $10,000 stipend, for up to 10 communities per year. This funding is allocated for communities in the U.S. that are affected by extreme heat to assist them with creating a heat monitoring project. CCHM will prioritize applications submitted by communities who have experienced historical patterns of discrimination, underinvestment, and disenfranchisement, and have limited resources to conduct heat monitoring on their own. Every community that participates in a CCHM campaign will need one principal organization that will lead the campaign, preferably in addition to several partner organizations that can assist with outreach and other tasks. Applications are due by 11:59 PM eastern time on January 17, 2025. Click here to learn more. Click here to access the application form and instructions.

Assistant/Associate Professor & Extension Specialist Natural Resources Science Communication

This is a full-time, 9-month position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor, with responsibilities in outreach (60%), teaching (35%), and professional service (5%). The successful candidate is expected to conduct applied research to support outreach and teaching programs.

Individuals with expertise in the following areas are encouraged to apply: natural resources science

communication, science communication, agricultural education, environmental education, or a closely related natural resources discipline.

For the outreach appointment, the successful candidate will integrate three main functions: (1)

instruction and training of extension professionals and undergraduate and graduate students, (2)

applied research, and (3) consultation and technical assistance to stakeholders. Required.—Candidates must possess a Ph.D. degree prior to the starting date with an emphasis on natural resources science communication, science communication, agricultural education, environmental education, or a closely related natural resources discipline. 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.

Extension Professional (Georgia Tech)

The Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business (Center) is actively advancing the creation of a Georgia-grown forest carbon market that will leverage the collective interests of Compact members and other businesses across the state to drive investments in Georgia forest resources. In support of this partnership and strategic initiative, the Center is seeking candidates in an Extension Professional role with knowledge and experience in voluntary carbon markets. Extension Professionals are research faculty that fulfill the extension and service mission of Georgia Tech to the State of Georgia and beyond. This mission includes, but is not limited to business and industry outreach, economic development, technology deployment, startup company incubation, and entrepreneurship. To learn more, click here.

Assistant or Associate Professor in Program and Staff Development (Mississippi State)

Mississippi State Extension has an open position for an Assistant or Associate Professor in Program and Staff Development (PSD). The primary function of this position will be to facilitate Extension program planning and staff development processes and teach one graduate-level course each year in Agricultural Education, Leadership and Communication (AELC). The anticipated start date is July 1, 2025, with a review of applications beginning January 15, 2025. MSU Extension Program and Staff Development is dedicated to building the professional, programmatic, and evaluation knowledge and capacity of the organization and its employees. Faculty in PSD support Extension administrators, faculty, agents, and staff in planning and needs assessment, program development and enhancement, evaluation and accountability, performance measurement, and professional learning and development. Learn more here.

Asst/Assoc. Professor of Biomaterials (University of Georgia)

The Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia in Athens, GA invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Forest Biomaterials at the Assistant or Associate Professor level with research, instruction, and university and professional service expectations as part of a 9-month appointment. Individuals with expertise in the following forest biomaterials academic areas are encouraged to apply: conversion, green chemistry, modification, novel materials, petrochemical replacement materials, and/or xylochemistry. Required qualifications include a Ph.D. degree prior to the starting date in forest biomaterials, wood science, forest products, paper science and engineering, material science and engineering, chemistry, or a closely related field. Apply here.

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.

Asst/Assoc. Outreach Professor & Extension Specialist of Natural Resources Science Communication (University of Georgia)

The Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia in Athens, GA invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in natural resources science communication. This is a full-time, 9-month position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor, with responsibilities in outreach (60%), teaching (35%), and professional service (5%). The successful candidate is expected to conduct applied research to support outreach and teaching programs. Individuals with expertise in the following areas are encouraged to apply: natural resources science communication, science communication, agricultural education, environmental education, or a closely related natural resources discipline. Required.—Candidates must possess a Ph.D. degree prior to the starting date with an emphasis on natural resources science communication, science communication, agricultural education, environmental education, or a closely related natural resources discipline. Learn more here.

Asst/Assoc. Professor of Precision Forestry (University of Georgia)

This is a 9-month tenure track appointment with expected research, teaching, and professional service responsibilities at the Assistant or Associate Professor level in the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia (UGA). This position will be focused on the use of precision forestry technologies, including remote sensing, LiDAR, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and digitalization to improve site-specific prescriptions in forest management and advance the use of technology in forestry. The candidate will use these technologies to address diverse forest management, conservation, sustainability, forest health, and/or timber operations. Undergraduate teaching responsibilities will begin in Fall Semester 2025. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Forestry, Forest Engineering, Remote Sensing, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. Apply here.

Southeast Regional Manager (Remote)

Forest Stewardship Council is seeking applicants for a remote Southeast Regional Manager position. The Southeast Regional Manager will focus on achieving certification growth and maintenance targets while prioritizing the needs of certificate holders in the Southeast. This position will also be tasked with prospecting and acquiring new certificate holders, with the support of the Senior Manager, Certification, and Business Development. This remote position requires up to 40% travel across the U.S. and involves cross-team collaboration, effectively communicating the organization’s structure, goals, and policies to diverse audiences in both written and oral form. The minimum requirements for this position are to have graduated from an SAF accredited University with a degree in Forestry or Natural Resources and five plus years of experience. Apply by clicking here.

Understanding Heirs’ Property at the Community Level

"Twelve Trees: The Deep Roots of Our Future"

Regional Seminar: Early Design Decisions for Mass Timber Projects

Northeast Texas Forest Pest Seminar

Logging Cost Analysis Workshop

82nd annual Professional Agricultural Workers Conference (PAWC)

The goal of this workshop is to inform arborists, landscape managers, landscape contractors, and planners about managing tree and landscape pests. See the agenda and register here.

Partners in Community Forestry Conference

2024 Forest Inventory and Analysis Science Symposium

Texas A&M Prescribed Fire Field Day

Prescribed Fire for Wildlife Class

To aid impacted landowners in the recovery process, Georgia Forestry Commission, Warnell, and UGA Extension will be hosting a series of Landowner Workshops in December, focused on providing landowners with essential resources and strategies for forest restoration. Topics covered include assessing damage and understanding recovery options, insights into forest markets and pine recovery, best practices for insect and disease management, reforestation techniques and invasive species control, timber taxation guidance. Learn more here

A Community on Ecosystem Services Conference

To aid impacted landowners in the recovery process, Georgia Forestry Commission, Warnell, and UGA Extension will be hosting a series of Landowner Workshops in December, focused on providing landowners with essential resources and strategies for forest restoration. Topics covered include assessing damage and understanding recovery options, insights into forest markets and pine recovery, best practices for insect and disease management, reforestation techniques and invasive species control, timber taxation guidance. Learn more here

To aid impacted landowners in the recovery process, Georgia Forestry Commission, Warnell, and UGA Extension will be hosting a series of Landowner Workshops in December, focused on providing landowners with essential resources and strategies for forest restoration. Topics covered include assessing damage and understanding recovery options, insights into forest markets and pine recovery, best practices for insect and disease management, reforestation techniques and invasive species control, timber taxation guidance. Learn more here

To aid impacted landowners in the recovery process, Georgia Forestry Commission, Warnell, and UGA Extension will be hosting a series of Landowner Workshops in December, focused on providing landowners with essential resources and strategies for forest restoration. Topics covered include assessing damage and understanding recovery options, insights into forest markets and pine recovery, best practices for insect and disease management, reforestation techniques and invasive species control, timber taxation guidance. Learn more here

Clemson Wood Utilization Development Annual Meeting

Drought and Aquatic Ecosystems in the Southeast Workshop

Coastal GeoTools

Join the Southeastern Society of American Foresters (SESAF) for three days of networking, learning, and collaboration with fellow professionals in the forestry industry. This year's meeting is focused on the theme of Addressing Challenges, Embracing Changes, and Seizing Opportunities in Forestry. The conference will take place at The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center. This is an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field. Click here to register.

Woodland Owners Retreat

The conference will take place at The Mill, a historic building that belongs to MSU’s Division of Development and Alumni. Join Mississippi State University’s mission to enhance knowledge sharing and foster collaboration among U.S. university faculty, students, industry professionals, and stakeholders to facilitate the efficient, sustainable, and socio-economically equitable implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Learn more here.

Extension Risk Management Education National Conference 

National Forum on Biological Control

International Symposium on Biogeochemistry of Wetlands and Aquatic Systems

38th Forest Products Machinery & Equipment EXPO