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Wisconsin Forestry Center
December 2023 Newsletter
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Science of Tree Felling course scholarship now available to high-school students
Do you know a high schooler looking for a headstart in a forestry career? Student scholarship applications are due by Feb. 2 for the Science of Tree Felling course, offered by the Wisconsin Forestry Center and the UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources.
In this course slated for March 22-24 in Tomahawk, high school juniors and seniors will learn from industry professionals and work alongside UW-Stevens Point students in this field-intensive chainsaw training.
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Thank you to the scholarship sponsors! | |
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USDA offers funding for forest landowners
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has announced a rare funding opportunity for forest landowners created by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Applicable forestry practices include brush management, forest stand improvement (e.g., thinning, crop tree release, marking for commercial timber sale), tree-shrub planting, prescribed burning, fuel breaks, wildlife habitat planting, and more. Also encompassed are supportive practices such as site preparation for tree-shrub planting. Shovel-ready projects identified in a forest management plan (FMP) are more likely to secure funding. For landowners without a FMP, funding may be available to have one written by a qualified technical service provider forester.
Stop by your local USDA Service Center or click the button below to learn how you can get started with NRCS today!
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Small Woodlot Management
Managing small woodlots can be financially and logistically difficult. In this workshop, we will hear from a master arborist, consulting forester, and master logger on common small woodlot issues and potential solutions. Through a series of short presentations, case studies, and a question and answer session, we will explore the feasibility of four potential solutions, examples of when they've worked, and the role of local lumber markets in their success.
This workshop counts toward the Forest Management for Wildlife Certificate Program. This workshop has been approved for 2.5 SAF CFEs and 3.0 Wisconsin DNR Cooperating Forester CEUs. Pre-approval is being sought for Wisconsin SFI CEUs.
When: Jan. 17, 2024, 9 a.m.-noon CST
Where: Virtual via Zoom
Cost: $35
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Prescribed Fire Webinar Series | | |
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The Art of Silviculture
The official Society of American Foresters definition of silviculture describes it both as an art and a science. During the Season 4 finale, we talk with Dr. Marcella Windmuller-Campione, associate professor of silviculture at the University of Minnesota, about keeping the creativity in silviculture and the importance of being a lifelong learner.
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White Oak, Whiskey, and Wildlife
It is simply hard to overstate the importance of white oak (Quercus alba) to forest products, wildlife habitat, and ecosystem services. On this episode of SilviCast, join Dr. Jeff Stringer, one of the founders of the White Oak Initiative, as we discuss ways to promote the long-term sustainability of white oak forests.
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This month's episode of SilviCast sponsored by: | |
Utility Vegetation Management (UVM) | |
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Next offering of UVM program starts in January
The next offering of North American Electrical Systems, the first course in a comprehensive training program in UVM, will be in January. Industry professionals will lead participants through the knowledge and skills needed to manage sustainable UVM program plans. This five-week course will provide the required introductory knowledge necessary for moving through the remaining courses in the UVM certificate program.
Online Course Dates: Jan. 2-Feb. 11
Registration Deadline: Dec. 29
Cost: $600
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Nature Enthusiast Workshops | | |
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Did Smokey Bear Get it Wrong?
Smokey Bear says, “Only YOU can prevent forest fires!” But is all forest fire bad? Many of us are aware that prescribed burning is crucial for restoring and maintaining native prairie ecosystems. Forest managers know that fire is just as important for sustaining forest ecosystems. Join Michael Tiller, assistant professor of forest ecology and fire management, as we learn about fire’s role in Wisconsin’s forests.
When: March 1, 1-2:30 p.m.
Where: Virtual via Zoom
Cost: Free!
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Mead Wildlife Area Spring Hayride
Enjoy the beauty of spring in central Wisconsin! A hay-wagon ride allows people to explore the George W. Mead Wildlife Area in ways unavailable on foot. The wagon will take attendees to special areas at the Mead to experience natural habitats. Learn how the Mead is using forest management practices to maximize wildlife populations. May is a wonderful time to experience songbird migration at the Mead. The wagon will stop for photography, interpretation, and hiking opportunities.
When: May 21, 8-11 a.m.
Where: Mead Wildlife Area, Milladore
Cost: $35 for LIFE members, $50 for the public.
Registration Deadline: May 14
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Looking for on-demand CEUs/CFEs?
We offer a variety of on-demand continuing education options, including short courses and SilviCast podcast episodes. They are pre-approved for SAF and WI-DNR Cooperating Forester credits. Click the icons to learn more and register.
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Follow the WFC on Instagram!
The Wisconsin Forestry Center is now on Instagram! Follow us for the latest forestry news and to hear about upcoming professional development opportunities.
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Do you have workshop or training ideas that you want the WFC to explore? | | | | | |
