White oak seedling being measured to track survival and growth
The Vinton Furnace Experimental Forest (VFEF), which is within the Vinton Furnace State Forest, is one of 22 experimental forests operated by the U.S. Forest Service in the Northeast and Midwest. Scientists have been conducting studies at VFEF since the early 1950s. Current projects are focused on a number of topics that include basic and applied research on the ecology and management of oak forests and wildlife. Topics and field tour sites presented at this workshop include:
- Learn about long-term research at VFEF on the production of hard mast (acorns, hickory nuts, beech nuts). How and why does it vary from year to year? Can it be predicted based on weather conditions or other factors? How may it shift in the future as the climate changes?
- Visit a research site where the focus is on improving the survival and growth of white oak seedlings.
- Learn about breeding bird research that is being carried out at VFEF, including studies that focus on blue jays and acorns, and whippoorwills.
- Vinton Furnace sustains a population of the state-endangered timber rattlesnake. Extensive research is being conducted to learn more about the timber rattlesnake at VFEF, including its habitat, seasonal movements, and reproduction.
Transmitter used in blue jay research
This program will take place on October 11 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Vinton Furnace Experimental Forest headquarters, near McArthur, OH. A $12 registration fee entitles participants to lunch and program materials.
Please RSVP no later than Monday, October 7, by mailing in a registration form, calling 740-596-5212 (OSU Extension Vinton County) or emailing Dave at apsley.1@osu.edu.
“A Day in the Woods” and the “2nd Friday Series” 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, USDA-Forest Service (Northern Research Station, State and Private Forestry and the Wayne NF), USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ohio Department of Agriculture, Vinton-Hocking-Athens Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Central State University Extension, the National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, the Ruffed Grouse Society, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.
Since 2012, “A Day in the Woods” has offered 70 programs with more than 100 presenters for woodland owners and enthusiasts just like you.
For brochures and more details about our full slate of programs for the remainder of 2019, click: A DAY in THE WOODS 2019 Brochure Final Low Res-20zbq6d
Click here for a map to the Vinton Furnace State Forest: Directions – Experimental Forest
