Topics and Agenda

2019 Schedule

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Three sessions will occur durring each time slot, please come prepared for the session you would like to attend. 

9 a.m. 

Breaking the myths about herbicides
Fred Whitford, Purdue University

 

Discussions among scientists and the public have focused on the real, predicted, and perceived risks that pesticides pose to people and the environment. Each use of a pesticide poses some level of risk, so it is not surprising that scientists, the regulated community, government officials, and the public need a realistic understanding of the risks associated with pesticide use. We must analyze how risk is assessed, identify the risks, and determine an appropriate level of concern. There are significant risks associated with leaving certain pests uncontrolled; and, in some cases, pesticides are the only viable alternative. There is little doubt that the proper use of pesticides improves our quality of life, protects our property, and promotes a better environment. We must understand both the benefits and the risks of pesticides in developing integrated pest forest and wildlife management strategies. Although it may be difficult to convey to the public a sense of balance among pesticide benefits and risks, this issue is central to America’s discourse on the continued use of pesticides. Making an informed decision—whether public policy or individual choice—is impossible without evaluating the benefits of use alongside the risks.

 

  

10 a.m.

Three diseases a landowner should know
Jim Chatfield, Ohio State University Extension

We will look in depth at three different diseases impacting woodlands around the tri-state area.  Some you see often and don’t need to worry about but some should be on your radar to react to.

   
  

  

   

10 a.m. 

Evaluating water quality in vernal pools, creeks and ponds
Eugene Braig, Ohio State University Extension

Water is integral to life.  The living landscape features many types of surface-water habitats.  We’ll briefly review some common methods for assessing the quality of streams, ponds/lakes, and forested wetlands/vernal pools.

 

   
  

  

   

10 a.m.

Managing your forests for deer: habitat and harvest  
Jarred Brooke, Purdue University

Many landowners are interested in managing white-tailed deer on their property either for hunting or wildlife viewing. But,  overabundant deer can cause significant damage to forest plants and woody regenerate. This talk will discuss steps to improve deer habitat quality on your property, while also taking steps to minimize damage caused by deer.

   
  

  

   

11 a.m.

Protecting tree seedlings from deer and other wildlife
Matt Springer, University of Kentucky Extension

Tree plantings are a common practice among both the public and private landowners. Several wildlife species can make growing these trees difficult especially within the first year or two after planting. We will identify the potential culprits and discuss some strategies to help protect your financial and time investment when you plant trees on your property.

11 a.m.

Tree identification Part 1 
Doug McLaren & Laurie Thomas, University of Kentucky Extension

Tree identification can be easy! This session will attempt to take all the mystery out of identifying the trees that blanket the states of Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio by using a dichotomous tree key. Plus participants will get an introduction to i-Naturalist and how to use this citizen science tool to help in tree identification.

11 a.m.

Is maple syrup a potential forest product for my land?
Gary Graham, Ohio State University Extension

Have you wondered if your forest land could be utilized for the forest product like maple syrup?  The best sugarbush (name for a dominant maple woods) is one that is not a mono culture of just maples.  What mix of none maples will make the sugarbush more productive and protected?  What does a sugarbush stand look like?  These and more questions will be answered as we discussed the topics of woodlot management for maple syrup production.

Noon - Lunch provided on site.

1 p.m. 

A managed woodland through time
Lenny Farlee, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center

How does management impact the benefits and products we receive from forests? We will explore the results of long-term management for some model properties, and discuss steps to implement management to meet your property goals.

Noon - Lunch provided on site.

1 p.m. 

Tree identification Part 2—testing your skills outdoors
Doug McLaren & Laurie Thomas, University of Kentucky Extension

This session provides participants with the opportunity to put their newly learned skills from Tree Identification Part 1 to use in the field as we use the dichotomous tree key and i-Naturalist to identify the trees around the park. It is advantageous for you to attend Tree Identification Part 1. Participants should dress for the weather.  

Noon - Lunch provided on site.

1 p.m.

Timber price report
Sayeed Mehmood, Ohio State University Extension

Dr. Mehmood will present his analysis of trends in Ohio timber price data. He will also briefly discuss the forest products industry’s contributions to Ohio’s economy. State of the U.S. economy and outlooks for the future will also be discussed.

   
  

  

   

2 p.m.

Snake identification
Brian MacGowan, Purdue University

Snakes might be one of the most misunderstood creatures we have around the home or woods. Despite their many benefits to people, many of us have fears about snakes. The vast majority of snakes we have in the Tristate region are nonvenomous species. This session will take the mystery out of identifying snakes and provide helpful information about both nonvenomous and venomous species you may encounter on your property.

   
  

  

   

2 p.m.

Managing woodlands for pollinators
Kathy Smith, Ohio State University Extension

Pollinators are a hot topic at the moment.  While the discussion often talks about planting pollinator plots, there are things a woodland owner can do to contribute to improving pollinator habitat.  We will highlight some pollinators that rely on trees and how woodland owners can improve their habitat.

 

     

   
  

  

   

2 p.m.

Succession planning – starting the conversation
Liz Jackson, Indiana Forestry and Woodland Owners Association

Have you talked to your family about your goals for your woodlands? Do they know the basics about managing the property? This session will suggest some tools to engage your family.