No one can predict the future with absolute certainty, but there are several trends that are difficult to deny. Extreme weather events are more common, temperatures appear to be warming, precipitation is becoming more variable, and populations of invasive species like emerald ash borer and tree-of-heaven continue to rise. All of these factors can impact your woods. National and global timber markets are also influencing the value of your timber resources.
Preparing Your Woods for an Uncertain Future is designed to help landowners better understand the potential impacts that these trends may have on their woodlands. Most importantly, the program will introduce you to some proactive strategies to minimize these risks, and improve the health and resiliency of your woodland for future generations.
Featured presenters include Patricia Butler, Climate Change Outreach Specialist, Northern Institute of Applied Climate Science; Tom Macy, Forest Health Administrator, ODNR-Division of Forestry; Matt Bumgardner, Forest Products Technologist, USFS Northern Research Station; Louis Iverson, Research Landscape Ecologist, USFS Northern Research Station; and Dave Apsley, Natural Resources Specialist, OSU Extension. Speakers will address the following topics:
- Past trends and predicted changes in climate and extreme weather events
- Understanding the adaptability and vulnerability of our oak dominated woodlands to these trends
- Invasive plants, insects and diseases that pose current and future threats to our woodlands
- Global timber markets and how they may impact the value of your trees
- Learn how to minimize risks to your woods by increasing the diversity of native species, enhancing individual tree health and minimizing the pressures of invasive species.
“A Day in the Woods” and the “2nd Friday Series” programs run from May through November and are sponsored by the Education and Demonstration Subcommittee of the Vinton Furnace State Forest with support from Ohio State University Extension, ODNR-Divisions of Forestry and Wildlife, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton County Soil and Water Conservation District, National Wild Turkey Federation, Glatfelter, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.
This program will take place from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur. A registration fee of $10 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials. Please RSVP by calling OSU Extension Vinton County at 740-596-5212, or email Dave Apsley at apsley.1@osu.edu by August 8.
For a brochure with more information about this and upcoming programs click here: 2016 DAY in the WOODS Brochure-Final
For a map and directions to the Vinton Furnace State Forest: Directions – Experimental Forest
