Registration is now open for a new cohort opening May 4 in the Twin Cities. Much like last year's Big Woods, Big Rivers cohort, this hybrid course will meet both online and in-person, and concurrent registration for a day of workshops at the Gathering Partners of Natural Resources conference is required. Visit the Metro cohort webpage to learn more about the timeline and to find links to register.

Emerald ash borer threatens Minnesota's ash resource. This two-part presentation will include an update on the status of EAB in Minnesota and relevant quarantines in addition to case studies of silvicultural interventions to inform future ash management options. The session will include speakers from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, University of Minnesota, and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Visit our blog to learn more and register to attend the webinar.

Registration is now open for the Gathering Partners of Natural Resources conference! Plan to join us at this annual conference for family forest owners, Master Naturalists, and anyone interested in natural resource conservation and stewardship. There are dozens of sessions to choose from, and many that are specifically of interest to forest landowners. We hope to see you there!

Oak wilt status in Minnesota upgraded to High Risk
As of March 31, the state of Minnesota is in a high risk period for oak wilt. We recommend avoiding pruning or wounding oaks until midsummer to reduce the risk of a new oak wilt outbreak. Read more about oak wilt here.

Propagating Woody Plants in the Spring
Hardwood cuttings are fun to try if you want to propagate woody shrubs like willows, dogwoods, and currents. And early spring cuttings are a fun activity for the family since the weather is warmer and it is before yard or garden work. We've put together some simple instructions and a video to make it easy for you to learn how to do this on your own!

Extension Highlights: Forest Pest First Detector
The Forest Pest First Detectors training program has been helping volunteers identify Emerald Ash Borer and other forest pests since 2008. This spring, University of Minnesota Extension educators decided to try a different approach to help those interested in becoming volunteer First Detectors absorb it all.

UPCOMING EVENTS

APRIL 18 - EAB & Minnesota's Ash Resource (Online)
Join our webinar as we discuss EAB in Minnesota, including quarantines and case studies.

APRIL 18 - Weed 'Em Out! Workshop (Morris, MN)

This workshop for natural resources professionals will teach you to identify and report emerging invasive species before they become big trouble.

MAY 3 - Weed 'Em Out! Workshop (Baxter, MN)

This workshop for natural resources professionals will teach you to identify and report emerging invasive species before they become big trouble.

A complete listing of events can be found on our Events Calendar.