Southeastern Ohio is blessed with an abundance of woodlands most of which (76%) is owned by family forest owners like you. Each woodland is unique for various reasons including topography, soils and geology, land-use and management history and types of vegetation present. Many of these woodlands contain non-native invasive species that pose significant threats to the overall forest health. Family forest owners are also unique and have a wide variety of reasons for owning their woodlands from enjoying nature and wildlife to supplementing income from timber and non-timber forest products. However, one thing that many family forest owners have in common is their desire to improve the health and condition of their woodlands. Oftentimes, this involves “tackling non-native invasive plants”. For you to set realistic goals for your woodland and to make progress toward these goals it is important to understand its current condition which can determine its future potential.

If you would like to learn more about tackling non-native invasive plants, please join us on April 11 for our “A DAY in the WOODS” program at the Hocking County Fairgrounds to: 

• Learn how to identify invasive plants in your woodlands.
• Understand common herbicide labels and treatment methods.
• Get tips for when and how to control invasives and what to do after treatment.

This program will take place at Hocking County Fairgrounds located at 150 North Homer Avenue, Logan, Ohio 43138 and runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Once inside the fairgrounds, turn to the left and follow the yellow A DAY in the WOODS signs to the parking area.  A registration fee of $20 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials. To download a brochure with more details about this program and future programs visit: u.osu.edu/seohiowoods .

Please use one of the following methods to register by April 4th: Register and pay online at go.osu.edu/aditw; call OSU Extension Jackson County 740-286-5044  or email Annie Miller at [email protected] .

“A Day in the Woods” and is 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 Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, University of Rio Grande, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Do you want to learn more about the historical use of fire in Ohio? Does understanding the current effects of prescribed fire upon our woodland areas spark your interest? Do you want to better understand the ecology and management of our upland oaks and why these are such important trees? If so, please Ohio State University Extension’s Jim Downs and Dr. Andy Londo for this fascinating program!

To register for this FREE online program please visit the following link: http://go.osu.edu/fire25

This Zoom Webinar will occur on Friday March 28th from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.

I hope to see you there!

Here is an early view of the 2025 A DAY in the WOODS Program. While the dates for these programs are already set, the exact titles of the workshops and locations are still a work in progress. We hope to have the official brochure for this year released sometime in early March.

April 11^th – Topic: Non-Native Invasive Plants and Ticks. Tentative Location: Hocking County.

May 9^th – Topic: Wildflowers and Fungi. Tentative Location: Jackson County

June 13^th – Topic: Songbirds. Tentative Location: Vinton Furnace State Forest

July 11^th – Topic: Oak and Hickory Ecology and Management. Tentative Location: Vinton Furnace State Forest

August 8^th – Topic: Tree Identification. Ohio Department of Natural Resources Zaleski Complex

September 12^th – Topic: Birds of Prey. Tentative Location: Vinton Furnace State Forest

October 10^th – Topic: Shrub Identification. Location: Hocking County

November 14^th – Topic: Sustainable Timber Harvesting Location: Vinton Furnace State Forest

Please stay tuned to this website for additional information on the programs and registration details!

Can you identify trees with leaves? What about without leaves? Identifying trees in winter can be a real challenge. This is an advanced class for individuals with some tree identification prior knowledge.

The class will begin indoors with samples of various tree twigs. A guide for identifying trees by fruit and twigs will be utilized for a significant portion of the course. We will get into using a dichotomous key. The afternoon portion of the class will hopefully be outside – weather dependent.

If you would like to learn more about identifying trees in the winter time, please join us on February 18th, 2025 for this program.

• Learn the tips and tricks to identifying trees by buds and twigs.
• Understand and utilize a dichotomous key.

This program will take place at Fairfield County Ag Center, located at 831 College Avenue, Suite D, Lancaster, Ohio 43130. The program will run from 9:30 am – 3:00 pm. A registration fee of $40 will cover the costs of the dichotomous key and lunch. Registration is required by 02/12/2025.

Please visit Advanced Winter Tree ID to register for the program. or call Ohio Woodland Stewards Program 614-688-3421.

“A Day in the Woods” and is 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 Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp is located at 1362 Caves Road, Jackson, Ohio. 

Like a well-managed garden, your woodland will provide more benefits if you invest some of your time and energy managing them. “Forest Stand Improvement”, an interactive outdoor learning opportunity for woodland owners in SE Ohio, will help you to understand the various practices that you can use to improve your woodlands. This program is offered on November 8^th at the Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest near McArthur and will include the opportunity to tour numerous field sites demonstrating various woodland improvement practices. We will also be providing the opportunity to gain knowledge on one of the most important tools in managing your woodlands, the chainsaw.

If you would like to learn more about Forest Stand Improvement, please join us on November 8th for our “A DAY in the WOODS” program at Vinton Furnace State Forest

• Learn and understand the basics of chainsaw safety, including PPE
• Observe proper strategy and technique for tree felling
• Appreciate the effects of midstory control towards meeting a range of forest objectives
• Determine why cull tree removal is an important component in creating and maintaining thriving forests.

This program will take place at Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur and runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials. To download a brochure with more details about this program and future programs visit: https://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods .

Please use one of the following methods to register by November 1st: Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/aditw; call OSU Extension Jackson County 740-286-5044 or email Annie Miller at [email protected].

“A Day in the Woods” and is 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 Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Southeastern Ohio is blessed with an abundance of woodlands most of which (76%) is owned by family forest owners like you. Every property is unique for various reasons including topography, soils and geology, land-use and management history and types of vegetation present. Wildlife management is important to most woodland landowners. Just like the diversity in every woodland this program will focus on a variety of different species and their required habitat including songbirds, black bear, bobcat, fisher, gray fox, river otter, beaver, and white-tail deer. Please join us to help learn about setting realistic wildlife goals for your property and ways to achieve them!

If you would like to learn more about Critter Homes: Wildlife Habitat Improvements, please join us on October 11th for our “A DAY in the WOODS” program at Vinton Furnace State Forest

• Learn more about how timber stand improvements can create habitat for Ohio’s wildlife
• Gain a better knowledge of which practices correlate to certain wildlife species
• Get more information regarding wildlife EQIP practices

This program will take place at Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur and runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials. To download a brochure with more details about this program and future programs visit: https://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods .

Please use one of the following methods to register by October 4th: Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/aditw; call OSU Extension Jackson County 740-286-5044 or email Annie Miller at [email protected].

“A Day in the Woods” and is 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 Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

The forest is a wonderful and mysterious place especially at night.  Join us on September 13^th for “Night Flyers”.  This special evening program by A DAY in the WOODS will take place at the Vinton Furnace State Forest.  Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Explore the unique ecology of Ohio’s night flyers—birds, bats, moths, and more
• Understand habitat needs and strategies to promote nocturnal wildlife on your property
• Enjoy a night hike to look and listen for nocturnal wildlife
• Discover some common and not so common night sounds in the forest
• Search for moths and caterpillars and other nocturnal insects
• And if the weather cooperates – view the magnificent night sky with minimal light pollution

Wildlife biologists and other natural resources personnel from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Ohio State University, School of Environment and Natural Resources will be on hand to lead the program.

This program will take place on September 13th at the Vinton Furnace State from 5:00 to 9:30 PM. A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of a light evening meal and program materials.

Please use one of the following methods to register by September 6th: Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/aditw; call OSU Extension Jackson County 740-286-5044 or email Annie Miller at [email protected].

If you’ve got one handy, please bring a headlight or flashlight.

“A Day in the Woods” and is 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 Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Fire has been an important natural disturbance within Ohio’s forests for thousands of years. As such, some of the trees and plants have developed adaptations that allow them to not only survive fire but are encouraged to establish and grow following fire. Oak-Hickory forests are one such forest that can benefit from the usage of prescribed fire. Returning fire to a landscape that has largely been without fire for the last century may be one of the key components to help sustain the dominance of oak across the unglaciated forest areas of Ohio. Prescribed fire is not without complications as 76% of Ohio’s forests are owned by private owners and its misuse could cause serious issues. Each of Ohio’s woodlands is unique due to variance including topography, soils, land-use management history, and the types of vegetation present. Woodland landowners have a variety of reasons for ownership including wildlife, timber, aesthetics, legacy, or just a place or call home. However, one thing that many family forest owners have in common is their desire to improve the health and condition of their woodlands. Come and see if prescribed fire could provide you with the opportunity to create a thriving woodland on your property!

If you would like to learn more about Prescribed Fire, please join us on August 9th for our “A DAY in the WOODS” program at Vinton Furnace State Forest to: 

• Learn the ecology of fire in relation to southeastern Ohio forest ecosystems.
• Explore prescribed fire treated stands and compare to untreated stands.
• Learn about prescribed fire resources available to private landowners.

This program will take place at Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur and runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials. To download a brochure with more details about this program and future programs visit: https://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods .

Please use one of the following methods to register by August 2nd: Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/aditw; call OSU Extension Jackson County 740-286-5044 or email Annie Miller at [email protected]

How to find Vinton Furnace State Forest:

From the North (Dundas): From the intersection of State Route 93 and State Route 324, drive south on State Route 324 for approximately 0.3 miles and turn left onto Sam Russell Road. Follow Sam Russell Road about 2.5 miles to the forest entrance.

From the South (Radcliff): From the intersection of State Route 32 and State Route 160, drive about 2.1 miles north on State Route 160 and turn right onto the experimental Road.

Once you enter Vinton Furnace State Forest follow the yellow “A DAY in the WOODS” signs to the event location. 

“A Day in the Woods” and is 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 Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Southeastern Ohio is blessed with an abundance of woodlands most of which (76%) is owned by family forest owners like you. Every property is unique for various reasons including topography, soils and geology, land-use and management history and types of vegetation present. Many of these properties contain areas suitable for native grasslands and pollinator habitat. Family forest owners are also unique and have a wide variety of reasons for owning their woodlands from enjoying nature and wildlife to supplementing income from timber and non-timber forest products. However, one thing that many family forest owners have in common is their desire to improve the health and condition of their woodlands. For you to set realistic goals for your woodland and to make progress toward these goals it is important to understand its current condition which can determine its future potential.

If you would like to learn more about native grasslands and pollinator habitat, please join us on July 12 for our “A DAY in the WOODS” program at Meigs Conservation Area, 35010 New Lima Road, Pomeroy, OH 45769 to: 

• Learn about establishing and managing pollinator habitat
• Understand habitat needs and host plants for various pollinator species
• Understand how pollinator management can benefit other wildlife species

This program will take place at Meigs Conservation Area located at 35010 New Lima Road. Pomeroy, Ohio 45769 and runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Once near the site, please follow the yellow A Day in the Woods signs our exact meeting location. (directions to Meigs SWCD Conservation Area)   A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials. To download a brochure with more details about this program and future programs visit: https://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods .

Please use one of the following methods to register by July 5th: Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/aditw; call OSU Extension Jackson County 740-286-5044  or email Annie Miller at [email protected] .

“A Day in the Woods” and is 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 Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Southeastern Ohio is blessed with an abundance of woodlands most of which (76%) is owned by family forest owners like you. Each woodland is unique for various reasons including topography, soils and geology, land-use and management history and types of vegetation present. Many of these woodlands contain non-native invasive species that pose significant threats to the overall forest health. Family forest owners are also unique and have a wide variety of reasons for owning their woodlands from enjoying nature and wildlife to supplementing income from timber and non-timber forest products. However, one thing that many family forest owners have in common is their desire to improve the health and condition of their woodlands. For you to set realistic goals for your woodland and to make progress toward these goals it is important to understand its current condition which can determine its future potential.   

If you would like to learn more about invasive species, please join us on June 14 for our “A DAY in the WOODS” program at Hocking College’s Lake Snowden to:  

• Learn how to identify non-native invasive species
• Get to know how invasive plants affect woodland health and what can be done to control them
• Get tips for when and how to control invasives and what to do after treatment

This program will take place at Hocking College Lake Snowden Campus located at 5900 US Highway 50, Albany, Ohio 45710 and runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Once at Lake Snowden, follow the yellow A Day in the Woods signs to the Sauber Center building.  A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials. To download a brochure with more details about this program and future programs visit: A Day in the Woods Brochure

Please use one of the following methods to register by June 7th: Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/aditw; call OSU Extension Jackson County 740-286-5044  or email Annie Miller at [email protected] . 

 “A Day in the Woods” and is 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 Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Southeastern Ohio is blessed with an abundance of woodlands most of which (76%) is owned by family forest owners like you. Each woodland is unique for a variety of reasons including topography, soils and geology, land-use and management history and types of vegetation present. Family forest owners are also unique and have a wide variety of reasons for owning their woodlands from enjoying nature and wildlife to supplementing income from timber and non-timber forest products. However, one thing that many family forest owner have in common is their desire to improve the health and condition of their woodlands. For you to set realistic goals for your woodland and to make progress toward these goals, it is important to understand its current condition which can determine its future potential.

If you would like to learn more about evaluating your woodlands, please join us on May 10 for our first “A DAY in the WOODS” program of 2024 to: 

• Understand the importance of inventorying and monitoring your woods
• Learn basic inventory techniques that provide a benchmark for setting goals and monitoring progress in your woods
• Receive a tree measuring stick and learn to use it to measure heights and diameters of your trees
• Learn to assess the health and condition of your woods

This program will take place at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur and runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials. To download a brochure with more details about this program and future programs visit: https://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods .

Please use one of the following methods to register by May 3th: Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/aditw; call OSU Extension Jackson County 740-286-5044  or email Annie Miller at [email protected] .

“A Day in the Woods” and is 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 Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

We are pleased to announce the 2024 agenda for the A DAY in the WOODS.  Online registration is now available at: REGISTER HERE. For a brochure with more details click here: 2024 ADIW Brochure

Evaluating your Woods
May 10 (9 am) – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Understand the importance of inventorying and monitoring your woods
• Learn basic inventory techniques that provide a benchmark for setting goals and monitoring progress in your woods
• Receive a tree measuring stick and learn to use it to measure heights and diameters of your trees
• Learn to assess the health and condition of your woods

Getting a Handle on Invasive Species
June 14 (9 am) – Lake Snowden, 5900 US Highway 50 Albany, OH 45710
• Learn how to identify non-native invasive species
• Get to know how invasive plants affect woodland health and what can be done to control them
• Get tips for when and how to control invasives and what to do after treatment

Native Grasslands and Pollinator Habitat
July 12 (9 am) – Meigs Conservation Area, 35010 New Lima Rd. Pomeroy, OH 45769
• Learn about establishing and managing pollinator habitat
• Understand habitat needs and host plants for various pollinator species
• Understand how pollinator management can benefit other wildlife species

Prescribed Fire: Ecology &  Implementation
August 9 (9 am) – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Learn the ecology of fire in relation to SE Ohio forest ecosystems
• Explore prescribed fire treated stands and compare to untreated stands
• Learn about prescribed fire resources available to private landowners

Night Flyers
Sept 13 (5 pm) – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Explore the unique ecology of Ohio’s night flyers—birds, bats, moths, and more
• Understand habitat needs and strategies to promote nocturnal wildlife on your property
• Enjoy a night hike to look and listen for nocturnal wildlife

Critter Homes: Wildlife Habitat Improvements
Oct 11 (9 am) – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Learn more about how timber stand improvements can create habitat for Ohio’s wildlife
• Gain a better knowledge of which practices correlate to certain wildlife species
• Get more information regarding wildlife EQIP practices

Forest Stand Improvemen
Nov 8 (9 am) – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Learn and understand the basics of chainsaw safety, including PPE
• Observe proper strategy and technique for tree felling
• Appreciate the effects of midstory control towards meeting a range of forest objectives
• Determine why cull tree removal is an important component in creating and maintaining thriving forests

Photo via Adobe Stock – Imagesbyelaine / Wirestock Creators

Many times, landowners think of managing their properties for either forest-specific or wildlife-specific reasons. In reality, managing for one of those reasons will manage both. ‘Forest Wildlife Habitat Relationships’ will help you understand how managing for the forest can benefit the wildlife or vice versa. This program will be offered Friday, October 13, 2023 at Vinton Furnace State Forest. It will give you the opportunity to:

• Understand the elements of wildlife habitat found in our woodlands and natural areas in SE Ohio
• Learn about many of the wildlife species (game and non-game) that inhabit southeast Ohio
• Understand what you can do to enhance wildlife habitat on your property

This program will take place at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur on Friday October 13^th from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials.

Please use one of the following methods to register by October 9^th:

• Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd
• Call Vinton SWCD 740-596-5676
• Email Jessica Burns at [email protected]

For brochures and more information about this and upcoming programs visit: http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods

“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, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Like a garden, your woodland will provide more benefits if you invest some of your time and energy. “Improving Your Woods”, an interactive outdoor learning opportunity for woodland owners in SE Ohio, will help you to understand the various practices that you can use to improve your woodlands.   This program is offered on September 8^th at the Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest near McArthur and will include the opportunity to tour numerous field sites demonstrating various woodland improvement practices.

• Learn a variety of woodland management techniques that you can use to improve your woodland
• Understand the alphabet soup of practices available to you including crop tree management (CTM), timber stand improvement (TSI), invasive species management, and understory removal
• Practice selecting crop trees to meet your goals and determine which trees to remove to enhance their growth

This program will take place at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur on Friday September 8^th from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM.   A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials.

Please use one of the following methods to register by September 4^th:

• Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd
• Call Vinton SWCD 740-596-5676
• Email Jessica Burns at [email protected]

Directions – Experimental Forest

American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) a native shrub that thrives in moist soils.

In addition to an amazing diverse overstory of hardwood trees, our woodlands in Appalachia Ohio are home to a wide variety of native shrubs which are critical components of our woodland ecosystems.  These shrubs are important hosts for many native species of insects, provide food and cover for many species of wildlife, and offer many other benefits.

• Understand the relationships between our native pollinators and shrubs
• Learn to identify common native and non-native shrubs
• Understand the impacts of non-native invasive species on our ecosystems

This program will take place at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur on Friday August 11^th from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM.   A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials.

Please use one of the following methods to register by August 7th:

• Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd
• Call Vinton SWCD 740-596-5676
• Email Jessica Burns at [email protected]

For brochures and more information about this and upcoming programs visit: http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods

Don’t forget to check out our  tree and shrub identification videos at: http://go.osu.edu/treeid

For directions to the program location visit: GPS Coordinates  or Map to the Vinton Furnace

“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, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

One of the first steps to improving your woodland is to know the species of trees that grow there.  With dozens of tree species on the typical woodland property in Appalachian Ohio, this can be a formidable task.  “Identifying the Trees in Your Woods” will introduce you a simple leaf key to guide you through the process.  You will have the opportunity to use the key to identify a wide assortment of tree samples in the classroom, then explore the diverse woodlands at the Vinton Furnace State Forest with experienced foresters.  This will help to reinforce your leaf identification skills and to help you to learn to use other characteristics, such as bark, twigs and buds, tree form and shape, and even site or location to help you identify trees.

This program will take place at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur on Friday July 14^th from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM.   A registration fee of $15 will cover the cost of lunch and a copy of Leaf Identification Key to Eighty-eight Ohio Trees.

Please use one of the following methods to register by July 10:

• Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd
• Call Vinton SWCD 740-596-5676
• Email Jessica Burns at [email protected]

Don’t forget to check out our Treemendous Tuesday, tree identification videos at: http://go.osu.edu/treeid

For directions to the program location visit: GPS Coordinates  or Map to the Vinton Furnace

A DAY in the WOODS began with a kickoff event on April 14, 2012, at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur.  June 9, 2023 will mark the 100^th A DAY in the WOODS educational program for woodland owners and enthusiasts in Appalachia Ohio.  This event will begin at 11:30 AM with a brief ceremony hosted by Dan Balser, Chief of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry, and Dave Apsley, Natural Resources Specialist with Ohio State University Extension to celebrate the occasion and to recognize all of the partners support the effort.

The ceremony will be followed by lunch and an afternoon filled displays, demonstrations and activities for woodland owners and enthusiasts organized and conducted by A DAY in the WOODS partnering organizations. Some of the activities planned include:

• Tree identification walk
• Chainsaw safety demonstration
• Birding activities
• Tours of  demonstration sites
• Tour of the new Ohio Hills -Adaptive Silviculture for Climate Change Research site.
• Conversations with representatives from many of our partners
• Tree measuring excercise

The 100^th A DAY in the WOODS event celebration be held at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur on May June 9, 2023, from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM.  Many of the afternoon educational programs will take place in the woods so be sure to bring your hiking boots and dress accordingly.

There is no charge to attend this event, but you must register by May 31 to receive lunch.

To register visit

go.osu.edu/celebrate100

or

call the Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District

  740-596-5676

by no later than May 31

Directions – Experimental Forest

For more information contact Dave Apsley by email at [email protected]  and keep an eye on http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods for updates.

From its beginning in 2012, A DAY in the WOODS has been a collaborative effort with the goal of providing quality educational programs for woodland owners and enthusiasts in Appalachian Ohio.  It is the flagship outreach program for the Ohio Interagency Forestry Team.  To date A DAY in the WOODS has offered 99 programs reaching more than 5,300 woodland owners and enthusiasts who manage nearly 150,000 acres of woodlands.

Thanks to our lunch Sponsors:

A DAY in the WOODS is coordinated by Ohio State University Extension in partnership with Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Divisions of Forestry and Wildlife, USDA Forest Service, Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative,  and Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.  Lunches are provided courtesy of the Ohio Forestry Association Foundation,  Speyside Bourbon Cooperage and Stave Mill, and the Ohio Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation.

We are pleased to announce our program schedule for A DAY in the WOODS for 2023.

We are especially excited about our June 9th celebratiion of our “100th A DAY in the WOODS” program since 2012. We are currently working on a brochure and will post it under 2023 Brochure above as soon as it is available.

May 12 – Reading your woodlot!  What does it say about your woodland management goals?

• Understand how past land use, soil and site conditions and other factors affect your woodland
• Learn to look for evidence of past-land use, natural disturbance and site capability
• Learn to develop reasonable goals for your woods based on the information that you gather
• Location: Vinton Furnace State Forest

June 9 – 100^th  A DAY in the WOODS  celebration 

• Celebrate this milestone with our partners and supporters
• Participate in a wide variety of tours and educational opportunities throughout the day
• Stay Tuned for more details in the coming weeks
• Location: Vinton Furnace State Forest

July 14 – Tree Identification  

• Learn to use leaf characteristics to identify trees
• Learn to key using samples in the classroom
• Explore a variety of woodland habitats and practice what you’ve learned
• Location: Hocking College or Zaleski ODNR Complex

Aug 11– Shrubs n’ Bugs

• Understand the relationships between our native pollinators and shrubs
• Learn about non-native invasive species and their impacts on the ecosystem
• Location: Vinton Furnace State Forest

Sept 8– Improving Your Woodlot

• Learn about a variety of woodland management techniques that you can use to improve your woodland including Crop Tree Management, Timber Stand Improvement, invasive species management, and mid/understory management
• Practice selecting crop trees to meet your goals and determining which trees are competing with them
• Location:  Vinton Furnace State Forest

Oct 13– Forest Wildlife Habitat Relationships

• Understand the elements of wildlife habitat found in our woodlands and natural areas in SE Ohio
• Learn about many of the wildlife species (game and non-game) that inhabit southeast Ohio and understand what you can to enhance their habitat in your woods
• Location:  Vinton Furnace State Forest

Our final A DAY in the WOODS program for 2022 focused on Family Forests and Carbon.

Featured presentations included:

“Carbon 101”, Charles Levesque – President, Innovative Natural Resource Solutions, LLC and Coordinator, Securing Northeast Forest Carbon Program

• Video Part 1 – Charles Levesque

• Charles Levesque ppt slides
• https://www.northeastforestcarbon.org/

“Ohio’s Family Forest Carbon Program (AFF/TNC)”, Tristan Kinnison – American Forest Foundation

• Video Part 2 – Tristan Kinnison

• Tristan Kinnison PowerPoint Slides
• http://familyforestcarbon.org

“Examples of current Forest Carbon projects in Ohio”, Anthony Pappas – Heritage Habitat & Forestry, LLC

• Video Part 3 – Anthony Pappas

• Anthony Pappas PowerPoint Slides
• https://www.heritagehabitatco.com/
• Other resources:
  • Natural Capital Exchange
  • Forest Carbon Works
  • Family Forest Carbon Program
  • Forest Management Guide by Heritage Habitat & Forestry
  • Heritage Habitat Services Packet
  • Info Request Landowner Carbon Programs
  • Landowner Flow Chart

“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, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Oak-dominated woodlands provide many important habitat elements for a wide variety of woodland animals from salamanders and song-birds to wild turkey and white-tailed deer.  Many of these animals depend on acorns to get them through Ohio’s winters, but oaks provide many other advantages for wildlife.  Oaks also benefit from many of these relationships and depend on wildlife like blue jays and squirrels to disperse and plant their acorns in suitable locations.   Even though oak-dominated forests are still common in southeastern Ohio, we are seeing trends that are concerning.

Join us on October 14 at the Vinton Furnace State (Experimental) forest to:

• Learn about the fascinating relationships between oaks and a wide array of wildlife species.
• Increase your knowledge of the ecological and economic benefits of oak-dominated forests.
• Understand the increasing concerns that we have for the future of oak-dominated forests in southeastern Ohio and the efforts of Ohio’s Interagency Forestry Team to address them.
•  Learn about oak regeneration and the role of fire and other disturbances in the process.
• Become aware of the resources and opportunities  available to you as a woodland owner to enhance oaks on you property.

Featured presenters include Stephen Mathews (Ohio State University School of Environment and Natural Resources); Rebecca Snell (Ohio University); Mark Wiley (ODNR Division of Wildlife); Stephanie Downs (ODNR Division of Forestry), and Dave Apsley (Ohio State University Extension).

This program will take place on October 14^th at the Vinton Furnace State from 9 AM to 3 PM.   A registration fee of $12 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials. Please use one of the following methods to register by October 10th: register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd; call the Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District 740-596-5676; or email Dave Apsley at [email protected].

Directions – Experimental Forest

“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, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative,  and Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Photo courtesy of the ODNR Division of Wildlife

The forest is a wonderful and mysterious place especially at night.  Join us on September 9^th for “A Night in the Forest: Nocturnal wildlife and night skies”.  This special evening program by A DAY in the WOODS will take place at the Vinton Furnace State Forest.  Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Experience the forest at night

• Discover some common and not so common night sounds in the forest

• Learn about chimney swifts, nightjars and eastern whip-poor-wills

• Search for moths and caterpillars and other nocturnal insects

• “Listen” to bats and learn about echolocation

• And if the weather cooperates – view the magnificent night sky with minimal light pollution

Wildlife biologists and other natural resources personnel from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Ohio State University, School of Environment and Natural Resources will be on hand to lead the wildlife portion of the program.   George Eberts and the Ohio University Astronomy Club will be on site with telescopes to interpret the night sky.

This program will take place on September 9^th at the Vinton Furnace State from 6:30 to 10 PM.   A registration fee of $12 will cover the cost of a light evening meal and program materials.

Please use one of the following methods to register by September 5^th: register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd; call the Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District 740-596-5676; or email Dave Apsley at [email protected].

If you’ve got one handy, please bring a headlight or flashlight.

Directions – Experimental Forest

“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, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative,  and Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

One of the first steps to improving your woodland is to know the species of trees that grow there.  With dozens of tree species on the typical woodland property in Appalachian Ohio, this can be a formidable task.  “Identifying the Trees in Your Woods” will introduce you a simple leaf key to guide you through the process.  You will have the opportunity to use the key to identify a wide assortment of tree samples in the classroom, then explore the diverse woodlands at the Vinton Furnace State Forest  with experienced foresters.  This will help to reinforce your leaf identification skills and to help you to learn to use other characteristics, such as bark, twigs and buds, tree form and shape, and even site or location to help you identify trees.

This program will take place at the Vinton Furnace State Forest (Directions – Experimental Forest)

and runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM.   A registration fee of $12 will cover the cost of lunch and your copy of Leaf Identification Key to Eighty-eight Ohio Trees. 

Please use one of the following methods to register by August 8:

•  Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd

•  Call  740-596-5676 Vinton SWCD

•  Email Dave Apsley at [email protected]

For  brochures and more information upcomming programs visit: ADIW BROCHURE

Don’t forget to check out our tree identification videos at: go.osu.edu/treeid

 “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, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Are you interested in supporting wildlife by creating native grassland and pollinator habitat on your land? Are there areas of your property that you want to keep open or are not well-suited to growing trees? Woodland openings, old pastures, lawn, and unused hay fields present opportunities to create native grassland and pollinator habitats. Managing these upland habitats along with healthy woodlands is the key to providing year-round food and cover for game birds, songbirds, deer, pollinating insects, and many other desirable wildlife species.

Join us on Friday, July 22 in Meigs County to:

• See a real-life example of pollinator habitat that was created and is actively managed by a private landowner with support from the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP.)

• View a live demonstration of equipment commonly used to create and manage grassland and pollinator habitats.

• Learn how to identify areas of your property that are suitable for native grasslands and pollinator habitat.

• Discuss challenges and solutions for managing upland habitats once they are established.

• Become familiar with common native forbs and grasses that attract desirable wildlife.

• Participate in collecting and identifying insects that use pollinator habitat.

• Consider how multiple habitat types can be managed on your property and how they combine to support Ohio’s wildlife.

• Discover resources and assistance available to help you establish and improve wildlife habitat on your own property.

Resource professionals from Ohio State University Extension, local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Pheasants and Quail Forever, the United States Forest Service, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources will be present to share information and answer your questions.

The field day will take place on July 22^nd from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at:

Re-Gen Farm and Forest Products Inc.

40518 Township Hwy 247, Pomeroy, Ohio 45769

Here is a Google Maps link to the event location:

go.osu.edu/pollinator-location

Look for the yellow and green  A DAY in the WOODS signs leading to the parking area. A registration fee of $12 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials.

Please bring a water bottle. Water coolers will be available on site. Portable chairs, sunscreen, hats, and bug spray are also recommended, according to your needs. Wear comfortable, protective shoes that will support you when walking up and down hills at a comfortable pace on mown grass trails.

Please use one of the following methods to register by July 18:

• Register and pay online: http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd Be sure to select July 22.

• Call: Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District  (740-596-5676)

• Email: Dave Apsley at [email protected]

“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, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative,  and Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Swedish brush axe

Caring for you woodlands can be overwhelming at times.  Fortunately, there is a wide array of tools and equipment that can help to make these tasks much more efficient and effective. These tools can be as simple as a hatchet or as sophisticated as an an off-road vehicle with a GPS guided sprayer.   Join us on Friday, July 15 at Hocking College to:

• Learn how to select, maintain, and safely use chainsaws
• Understand how to safely operate your small farm tractors and off-road vehicles
• Become familiar with a wide variety of power and manual tools you can use to improve your woodlands and wildlife habitat
• Learn how to operate hand-held and vehicle mounted spray equipment safely and effectively

Our featured presenter for this program is Dale Hatfield, Hocking College-Forest and Tree Care Manager, Building and Grounds.   Dale is also an instructor for the Ohio Forestry Association’s CSAW (Chainsaw Safety Awareness that Works) training program.  Dale’s crew and Natural Resources professionals from partnering agencies including Ohio State University Extension, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and local Soil and Water Conservation Districts will be on hand to demonstrate equipment and share pro tips.

This program will take place from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Hocking College –  Sylvania Educational Site,  17690 Sylvania Ave, Nelsonville Ohio 45764. A registration fee of $12 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials.

Please use one of the following methods to register by July 11th:

• Register and pay online:http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd  Be sure to select July 15
• Call: Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District 740-596-5676
• Email: Dave Apsley at apsley.[email protected]

For a map and more details visit: http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods

“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, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Streamside forests and wooded watersheds play a key role in providing clean water and quality habitat for both aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. Trees, especially those along stream sides, absorb nutrients and trap soil particles minimizing their impact on fish and the organisms that they feed on. Forested watersheds and wetlands can also help to reduce the severity of flooding and provide for a more consistent flow of clean water for human consumption.  Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Learn about watersheds and how humans can impact them
• Understand the role of streamside forests in keeping streams healthy and productive
• Watch an electrofishing demonstration and learn about other sampling techniques used to study streams
• Explore macroinvertebrates and other indicators of water quality
• Enjoy an optional guided float down Raccoon Creek (additional fee of $12)

You will have the opportunity to get in a creek and help with seining for aquatic insects. So, if you want to jump in, be sure to bring an old pair of tennis shoes or waders and an extra set of dry clothes.

Featured presenters include Carrie Brown, ANR Educator-OSU Extension Fairfield County; Amy Mackey,Raccoon Creek Watershed Coordinator-Ohio University’s Voinovich School; Levi Arnold, Region 7  Watershed Manager-ODA Division of Soil & Water Conservation; Bob Mulligan, Forest Hydrology Manager- Ohio Division of Forestry; Jenna Balazs,Watershed Education and Outreach Coordinator-Hocking Soil and Water Conservation District; Rebecca Miller, Education Specialist-Hocking Soil and Water Conservatoin District; Kelly Capuzzi, State Fisheries Biologist-Ohio EPA; and Kaylin Callander, Naturalist- Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Watercraft.

This program will take place from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Hope School House Interpretive Center in Zaleski State Forest located at approximately 28000 Wheelabout Road, McArthur.  A registration fee of $12 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials.  An optional float trip will take place from approximately 2:15 to 6:00 PM.  An additional fee of $12 Canoe or Kayak rental, and shuttle. Be sure to let us know if you’re planning to join us on the float trip.

Please use one of the following methods to register by June 8th:

• Register and pay online: http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd  Select June 10 (be sure to also select June 10 float if you plan to kayak)
• Call:  Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District (740-596-5676)
• Email: Dave Apsley at [email protected]

Southeastern Ohio’s woodlands contain a rich assortment of plants ranging from majestic oaks to the most delicate understory herbs.  The focus of the May 13 “A Day in the Woods” program will be “Understory Plants in Your Woodland.” Featured presenters are Homer Elliott – Wildlife & Natural Resources Faculty at Hocking College, Todd Hutchinson- Research Ecologist – USFS Northern Research Station, Badger Johnson – Climate Resilience Coordinator at Rural Action, and Rebecca Wood, Director of Hopewood Holistic Health. “Understory Plants in Your Woodland” is designed to help you:

• Learn to identify many of the understory plants found in SE Ohio

• Understand the ecology of these plants

• Recognize some common woodland mushrooms

• Become familiar with the many resources available to help you further understand the nutritional and medicinal value of these plants and mushrooms

• Explore understory plants and fungi at the Vinton Furnace State Forest

This program will take place at the Vinton Furnace State Forest and runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM.   A registration fee of $12 will cover the cost of lunch and program materials.  Please use one of the following methods to register by May 9th:

•  Register and pay online at http://go.osu.edu/vintonswcd

•  Call  740-596-5676 Vinton SWCD

•  Email Dave Apsley at [email protected]

For  brochures and more information: 2022 A DAY In the WOODS Brochure

Directions – Experimental Forest

 “A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton Soil and Water Conservation District, Central State University Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pixelle Specialty Solutions, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, Ohio Forestry Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College,  Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Pheasants and Quail Forever, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

These are the recordings from “Using Technology to Map and Care for Your Woodlands”  A DAY in the WOODS program on 4-8-22.  Unfortunately, the audio quality is not great.  See bottom half of this post for supplemental information (power point slides and instructions) and more detailed recordings from 10/9/2020.

My Land Plan and Google Earth (Dave Apsley, OSU Extension; 23:32 min)

Adding a Soil Series Layer to Google Earth PRO

Note:  One of our partcipantes shared this link which provides a soils layer for Google Earth: https://casoilresource.lawr.ucdavis.edu/soil_web/kml/SoilWeb.kmz

Just click on the link and a SoilWeb  KMZ file will download.  Click on it and it will open in Google Earth Pro if you have it loaded on your comptuer.  It will show up as a folder in your Temporary Places folder as SoilWeb and can turned on and off by checking and unchecking the box next to it.   When it is checked the Soil Series info will show up when you zoom into one of your places.

Web Soil Survey (Stephanie Downs, ODNR-Division of Forestry; 32:10 min)

ONX Hunt; Pat Migliozzi (ODNR-Divison of Forestry) and George Hulbert (USFS-Northern Research Station; 17:21 min)

Using AVENZA phone app (Stephanie Downs, ODNR-Division of Forestry; 13:14 min)

The resources below delve even deeper into several of the mapping and GPS programs that were explored on October 9, 2020.

Mapping you woodland focuses on tools that you can use to locate boundaries and other land features, and to create digital maps from location data using free GPS (Global Positioning System) phone applications and online mapping tools.

Recording of October 9 Virtual DAY in the WOODS program including (79 min):

• Using Ohio county auditor web resources – Eric Hayes, Athens Soil and Water Conservation District

• Collecting location information from your woodland using AVENZA maps – Stephanie Downs,  Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry

  • Mapping – AVENZA Instructions

  • Mapping- How to use AVENZA – powerpoint slides

• Overview of online mapping tools including My Land Plan, Google Earth Pro and other free or low cost mapping tools – Dave Apsley, Ohio State University Extension, Stephanie Downs,  Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry, and Eric Hayes, Athens Soil and Water Conservation District

  • Mapping – Tool Worth Exploring – powerpoint slides

How to use My Land Plan to map and manage your woodland Resources

Dave Apsley, Ohio State University Extension

Mapping- Using My Land Plan- powerpoint slides

PowerPoint presentation on My Land Plan (13 min):

Demonstration on how to use My Land Plan (14 min):

Creating interactive maps using Google Earth Pro

Dave Apsley, Ohio State University Extension, and Eric Hayes, Athens Soil and Water Conservation District (30 minutes)

Mapping – How to use Google Earth Pro- powerpoint slides

PowerPoint presentation on Google Earth pro (13 min):

Map created in
Google Earth pro

Our April 8, A DAY in the WOODS program “Using Technology to Map and Care for Your Woodlands” will be offered in a hybrid format.   The morning portion of the program will explore online resources including Web Soil Survey, My Land Plan, Google Earth and Virginia Tech’s Tree Identification web site.  We will also introduce participants to a variety of smart phone apps that can be used to map and track your movement on your property, identify your trees and assess the health of your woodlands.   The optional field session offered only at Zaleski State Forest will consist of demonstrations and hands practice to help you to become comfortable with the technology

Please select one of the following options to attend this program:

1. To attend the morning Zoom Webinar portion of the program, CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

2. To join us for the morning and afternoon sessions in-person at Zaleski ODNR Complex.  PLEASE RSVP by email Dave Apsley at [email protected] (include the subject line Technology A DAY in the WOODS).  Since we will not be providing a lunch at this event, it will be free of charge.  Please don’t forget to bring your lunch.

Map and Directions to Zaleski ODNR Complex:   ZaleskiDrivingMapRevised4-13-15PDF-26r6cke    Zaleski ODNR Complex Aerial

Program Agenda

•  10:00 – 11:30 Indoor: Zoom Webinar or in person at Zaleski SF

  • Mapping resources: My Land Plan, Google Earth,

  • Web Soil Survey and Virginia Tech Tree ID websites

  • Introduction to a variety of Smart Phone Apps including Avenz (and other mapping apps), Healthy Woods and VTree

  • Question and Answer session

• 11:30-12:00    Lunch: Don’t forget to “bring your own”

• 12:00-2:00      Field: Zaleski SF

  • Demonstrations and hands-on use of apps

• 

Photo Courtesy of Jason Jones, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever

Grasslands and Pollinator Habitat for Wildlife Recording (Link to full recording of 3/11/22 DAY in the WOODS Zoom Recording)

 “The Power of Pollinators”  starts at 7:00 min  (Marne Tichenell, OSU Extension)

Titchenell Pollinator Status-Important-Plant Associations.pdf

“Goals and Expectations” starts at 33:40 (Eric Hayes, Athens SWCD)

Hayes GoalsAndExpectations.pdf

” Planning for and Maintaining Upland Habitat” starts at 48:00 (Abby Prieur, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever)

Prieur Planning for and Maintaining.pdf

“Site Preparation”  starts at 01:11:00 (Jason Jones, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever)

Jones_Site Prep.pdf

Separate recorded video, click to view: USDA Conservation Programs: Promoting Healthy Grasslands and Pollinator Habitat    (Nick Schell, Ohio NRCS)

Schell_USDA Conservation Programs Promoting Healthy Grasslands and Pollinator Habitat.pdf

Additional Resources:

Ohio Trees for Bees fact sheet

OSU Bee Lab – u.osu.edu/beelab

Attracting Native Pollinators – Xerces Society Publications – xerces.org

pheasantsforever.org/Conservation/Habitat-Education.

https://extension.psu.edu/warm-season-grasses-and-wildlife

https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs142p2_017880.pdf

https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/documents/sp731-b.pdf

https://www.pfhabitatstore.com/store/items/OH/

EstablishingPollinatorMeadows

ButterflyGardens

PollinatorHabitat

PollinatorBiologyandHabitat

Pollinating insects are responsible for 75% of the global food supply, and are accurate indicators of overall ecosystem health. Recent declines of pollinating insects, and other wildlife adapted to similar habitats, are cause for genuine concern. Ohio landowners can help by managing healthy forests and native grasslands that host a diverse community of native flowering plants, which are critical strongholds for pollinating insects and wildlife dependent on grasslands.

Join us Via Zoom Webinar on March 11^th  from 3 pm to 5 p.m. for an introduction into native grasslands and pollinator habitat.

Click Here to register

Hold the Date: A field event is being planned for July 22.  Join us to to learn more about the benefits of pollinator habitat and native grassland habitat, and how to establish pollinator habitat and grassland habitat on your own property. We will tour pollinator habitat and native grasslands, and witness just some of the ecosystem services they provide for us.”  More details for this field event will be provided soon!

We’ve still got details to work out, but this is what we’ve got in store for A DAY in the WOODS, 2nd Friday Series for 2022:

• Mar 11- Native grasslands and Pollinator Habitat for Wildlife- A virtual Introduction. 3 pm. via Zoom

• Apr 8 – Using Technology for Woodland Management. 10 am.  Join us via Zoom or in person at Zaleski ODNR Complex. 12:30 PM Live Demonstrations at Zaleski ODNR Complex (not available via Zoom)

• May 13- Understory plants in Your Woodland.  9 am. Vinton Furnace State Forest

• Jun 10- Woodlands and water.  9 am.  Zaleski State Forest.  2:30 pm optional float trip on Raccoon Creek

• Jul 15- Tools and Equipment for managing your woodlands and wildlife habitat. 10 am. Hocking College

• Jul 22- Native grasslands and Pollinator Habitat for Wildlife. 9 am.  Field-based. Location to be determined.

• Aug 12- Tree Identification. 9am. Vinton Furnace State Forest

• Sept 9- A night in the forest: Nocturnal Wildlife and Night Skies. 6:30 pm. Vinton Furnace State Forest

• Oct 7- Managing oaks for wildlife. 9 am.  Vinton Furnace State Forest

• Nov 10 (Thursday)- Family Forests and Carbon.  3 pm. Virtual via zoom

• Hands on Chainsaw Training (CSAW). 8 Hour Hands on Classes. Dates, Locations TBA.

RECORDING OF PROGRAM

PowerPoint slides:

Oak Ecology and Silviculture – Apsley

The Importance of Oak for Wildlife – Runkle

Managing Oaks for Woodlands Practices and Resources – Downs

HP Landscape Planning_Oak-Wildlife Webinar – Randall

Other Resources:

Five-Steps-Assistance-FACTSHEET (1) Five-Steps-Assistance-FACTSHEET (1)

Our final A DAY in the WOODS program for 2021 “Woodland Boundaries” will take place on December 10, at 10 am to 11:15 via Zoom Webinar.   This program will be presented by Mark Rickey, State Service Forester with ODNR-Division of Forestry, and Dave Apsley, Natural Resources Specialist with Ohio State University Extension. Join us on December 10 to:

• Learn about the importance of woodland boundaries and why it is important to maintain them.
• Get tips on how to seek and find evidence of their location.
• Understand how you can mark and maintain your boundaries to make them more recognizable.
• Learn the importance of boundary line trees and evidence, and how they should be treated
• Know when it may make sense for you to reach out to a professional land surveyor for assistance.
• Get access to a new series of videos on Woodland Boundaries that were produced to assist Ohio’s family woodland owners.

To register for this Zoom Webinar visit: http://go.osu.edu/ditw2021

Fall is in the air, and many of the trees in Southeastern Ohio have already shed their leaves. This makes tree identification more difficult, but there are still many clues that you can use to identify trees in their leafless state. “Identifying Trees in Winter” will provide you with the knowledge to differentiate among the variety of trees on your property in the coming winter months  Participants in this program will:

• Develop an eye for bark and tree shape to aid in winter tree identification
• Learn to use bud and twig characteristics to identify trees
• Become familiar with tree fruits like acorns and other clues that can be found on the ground
• Spend the day exploring the forest sites at the Vinton Furnace State Forest with several foresters and natural resources professionals
• Visit a variety of wooded sites to learn about their contribution to the diversity of Ohio’s Appalachian forests

“Identifying Trees in Winter” will take place at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur on November 12,  2021, from 9 AM to 3 PM.  The program will take place entirely in the field and will include a considerable amount of walking on uneven terrain, so be sure to bring your hiking boots and dress accordingly. We will follow the COVID-19 protocols that are in place at the time.   Please bring a face covering to use when:

• you are indoors and not fully vaccinated
• it makes you comfortable

A registration fee of $12 per person (payable on the day of the event by cash or check to Vinton SWCD) entitles participants to program materials and a box lunch.  Registration is required.  Please RSVP on or before November 8 by emailing Dave Apsley at [email protected], or by calling Cheri Porter or Dave Runkle at the Vinton SWCD (740-596-5676).

The Vinton Furnace State Forest is in a very remote portion of Vinton County.  Signs will be posted on the morning of the event along the route from both entrances. For a map and directions to help you find the training center at the Vinton Furnace State Forest, click : Directions – Experimental Forest

For more information contact Dave Apsley ([email protected]).

“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 Bird Conservation Initiative, Ohio Tree Farm Committee, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, the Ruffed Grouse Society, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee. Since 2012, “A Day in the Woods” has offered nearly 80 programs with more than 100 presenters for nearly 4,000 woodland owners and enthusiasts just like you.

One of the non-native bush honeysuckles (Morrow’s honeysuckle) found in Ohio

Are you seeing aggressive plants encroaching on your woodland property but aren’t sure what they are?  Do you already know about non-native invasive plants but don’t know how to control them?  This program “Identifying and Controlling Invasive Plants” may be just for you.  It will take place at the Hocking College Nature Center in Nelsonville, OH on September 10 from 9 am to 3:30 pm.

The program will take place entirely in the field and is designed to help woodland owners learn how to identify and manage non-native invasive species.   We’ll have several experienced foresters and natural resources specialists from Hocking College, ODNR-Division of Forestry, Athens SWCD, Vinton SWCD, The National Wild Turkey Federation and OSU Extension on hand to assist with this program. The program will start with an introduction to some of the more common non-native invasive species in SE Ohio.  It will include demonstrations of equipment and techniques, and discussions about herbicides and safety.  We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each technique to help you devise a strategy for your woodland property.

If you suspect you’ve got an invasive plant but aren’t sure, feel free to bring pictures or a sample in a plastic bag. We’ll do our best to assist you with identification.

A registration fee of $12 per person (payable on the day of the event by cash or check to Vinton SWCD) includes a box lunch and program materials.  Registration is required on or before September 6.  To register email Dave Apsley at [email protected], or by call Cheri Porter or Dave Runkle at the Vinton SWCD. 740-596-5676.

We plan to hold most of this program in the woods in small groups of approximately 10.   We will follow the COVID-19 protocols that are in place at the time.   Please bring a face covering to use when:

• you are indoors and not fully vaccinated
• it makes you comfortable

There is no actual address for the old nature center, but it is on Hocking Parkway, Nelsonville, OH 45764.  There is a parking lot for the old nature center on the north edge of campus (across the road from the RR bridge that crosses the Hocking River).  So I highly recommend using the GPS coordinates: 39.447848, -82.224709 or the map below (see red place marker).  We will place some A DAY in the WOODS yellow signs along Hocking Parkway and at the parking area

Click here for a map!

“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, Ohio Forestry Association Foundation and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee. Since 2012, “A Day in the Woods” has offered nearly 80 programs with more than 100 presenters for nearly 4,000 woodland owners and enthusiasts just like you.

New to woodland ownership?  Feeling overwhelmed? This program, Introduction to Woodland Ownership,  is specifically designed for you.

Families, just like yours, own approximately 3/4 of the 8.1 million acres of woodlands in Ohio, yet they often do not know where to start or where to turn for advice and assistance when they need it.  Foresters, wildlife biologists, and other natural resource professionals from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Natural Resources Conservation Service, the National Wild Turkey Federation and Ohio State University Extension will be on hand to answer your questions and discuss how they can help you to improve the health of your woodland.  We’ll cover the wide range of options available to you as a woodland owner and the many resources that are available to help you care for your woodlands.

What:  Introduction to Woodland Ownership, A DAY in the WOODS

Where: Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur

When: August 13, 9 AM to 3 PM

Registration:  $12 per person (payable on the day of the event by cash or check to Vinton SWCD) includes a box lunch.  Registration is required.  Please register on or before August 9 by emailing Dave Apsley at [email protected], or by calling Cheri Porter or Dave Runkle at the Vinton SWCD. 740-596-5676. 

We plan to hold most of this program in the woods in small groups of approximately 10.   Again, we will follow the COVID-19 protocols that are in place at the time.   Please bring a face covering to use when:

• you are indoors and not fully vaccinated
• it makes you comfortable

The Vinton Furnace State Forest is located in a very remote portion of Vinton County.  Signs will be posted on the morning of the event along the route from both entrances. Directions – Experimental Forest

For more information contact Dave Apsley ([email protected] or 740-710-3009)

Our July 9th program will be held virtually and will touch on a wide range of woodland health issues ranging from  insects and diseases (both native and non-native) to a lack of desirable regeneration in the understory.  The program will focus on  the benefits of and how to use the “HealthyWoods” phone app which was developed by University of Kentucky and University of Tennessee Extension in cooperation with Ohio State University and other extension programs in the eastern US https://healthywoodsapp.org/.   This new resources was developed to help you to quickly and easily identify common issues facing your woodland.

Our featured presenter will be Ellen Crocker, Ph.D. a  Forest Health Extension Specialist  from the University of Kentucky.  Ellen was instrumental in the development of this useful resource for woodland owners.

We highly recommend downloading HealthyWoods from your app. store prior to the program.  It is available in both Android and iOS.

This program will take place from 10AM to Noon on July 9.  Click here to register

We are pleased to announce that our June 11, A DAY in the WOODS – Shrub Identification program will take place as an in-person event at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur. This will be our first in-person A DAY in the WOODS program since the fall of 2019.  Please be patient with us!  Due to COVID-19 we will limit participation to 24 attendees and will follow current COVID-19 protocol as prescribed by our employers and the State of Ohio.

What:  Shrub Identification program

Where: Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur

When: June 11, 10 AM to 3 PM

Registration:  $12 per person (payable on the day of the event by cash or check to Vinton SWCD) includes a box lunch

RSVP, limited to the first 24 people who reserve a spot via email [email protected], or by calling  740-596-5676.  Once we reach capacity, we will maintain a list in the order that requests are received if slots become available.

We plan to hold this entire program in the woods in small groups of approximately 10.  We currently have 6 instructors lined up to assist with this program.   Again, we will follow COVID-19 protocols that are in place at the time.   Please bring a face covering to use when:

• you are not fully vaccinated
• you in are in the training center to use restroom facilities or for any other reason
• you are unable to social distance from people outside of your normal circles
• it is necessitated by COVID-19 protocol changes
• it makes you comfortable

The Vinton Furnace State Forest is located in a very remote portion of Vinton County.  Signs will be posted on the morning of the event along the route from both entrances. Directions – Experimental Forest

For more information contact Dave Apsley ([email protected] or 740-710-3009)

Health Benefits of Woodlands (PDF of Powerpoint) – Jarel Bartig: Health Benefits of Woodlands

Selected reference from  Health Benefits of Woodlands:

  -The Nature Fix by Florence Williams

-Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv

-Forest Medicine by Qing Li

-Ohio Leave No Child Inside Collaborators – https://ohiolnci.org/

-International Society of Nature and Forest Medicine – https://www.infom.org/

-The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs – https://www.natureandforesttherapy.org/Walk with a Doc – https://walkwithadoc.org/

-Children and Nature Network – https://www.childrenandnature.org/

-National Environmental Education Foundation’s
Children and Nature Initiative – https://www.neefusa.org

-Park RX America – https://parkrxamerica.org/

What’s Your Eco-Zip Code (PDF of Powerpoint) – Lisa Kluesner: 

DayInTheWoods_EcoZipcodes_05142021

USDA Forest Service Section, Subsection, and Landtype Descriptions for Southeastern Ohio: https://www.fs.fed.us/nrs/pubs/rmap/rmap_nrs10.pdf

Lookout Rock-Zaleski State Forest

Forest Ecology will be offered by A DAY in the WOODS on Friday, May 14 from 10 am to noon via Zoom Webinar

Click here to register!

This program will focus on southeast Ohio – our most heavily forested portion of the state located in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains and part of the greater Appalachian Mountain Ecosystem.  The workshop has two parts – the first will explore the role that our woodlands can have in enhancing our physical and mental health and the second will provide an introduction to the landscape ecology of southeast Ohio.  We hope you can join us as we explore the ecological “zip codes” of southeast Ohio and how we all fit in.

Photo credit: Brad Perkins

Below you will find links to the program recording and other resources from “Migratory Birds”, A DAY in the WOOD, program on April 9, 2021.  Learn about the ecology of avian migration, tricks to identifying birds by sight and sound, and the critical conservation implications of this ecological phenomenon in a developing landscape. We will go over the timing of migration for different groups of birds and how to find out where and when birds are showing up.

Video recording link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9BdazCG2WA

Timing of the Spring Migration in Ohio slides (PDF): Day in the Woods – 2021 – Shumar – & Matthews

Warblers in Ohio (PDF): Birding with Brad_Warblers

eBird website: https://ebird.org/

Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative website: https://obcinet.org/

More birding with Brad videos

• Marsh Birds of Ohio: https://mediasite.osu.edu/Mediasite/Play/4e7ad0a1d73344b8962e49c9f932a5cd1d
• Raptors: https://mediasite.osu.edu/Mediasite/Play/a04c831d7de74776a2aed10f1a0633b51d

Blackburnian warbler. Photo credit: Brad Perkins

Migratory Birds will be offered on Friday April 9th from 10 am to noon via Zoom Webinar.

Click here to register!

Learn about the ecology of avian migration, tricks to identifying birds by sight and sound, and the critical conservation implications of this ecological phenomenon in a developing landscape. We will go over the timing of migration for different groups of birds and how to find out where and when birds are showing up.

Featured speakers include Matthew Shumar (Program Coordinator, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, The Ohio State University SENR), Stephen Matthews (Associate Professor, The Ohio State University SENR) and Brad Perkins (Executive Director, Ohio Forestry Association)

“Native trees and shrubs for wildlife”  was offered via Zoom Webinar on March 12, 2021. This program focused on the food provided by native trees and shrubs for Ohio’s many species of wildlife.  Below is the video of this program, a copy of the presentation materials and a related web links.

Featured presenters include Ryan Boyer (District Biologist IN, MI, OH; National Wild Turkey Federation), Marne Titchenell (Wildlife Program Specialist, OSU Extension), and Dave Apsley (Natural Resources Specialist, OSU Extension).

Topics covered included:

• Types of food provided by trees and shrubs for wildlife

• Seasonality and nutritional value of food (mast) produced by trees and shrubs

• Importance of providing a diverse mix native, woody plant species

• Methods you can employ in your woodlands to enhance the production of mast and other wildlife benefits

• Resources available help you to enhance these habitat elements in your woods

Additional Resources

PDF – A Day in the Woods- Native Trees and Shrubs for Wildlife (Final)

National Wild Turkey Federation – Manage Your Property – website

Ohio Woodland Stewards website

Note:   Due to COVID-19, these programs will be offered virtually until we get authorization to conduct them on site and in person.  At that time, we hope to offer most of the programs in a hybrid format with both live and in-person options. Program details and updates will be posted at http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods as they become available.    Contact Dave Apsley [email protected] for more details.

April 9- Migratory Birds (click to register)

May 14- What’s Your Ecological Zip Code? and the Health Benefits of Woodlands

June 11- Shrub Identification

July 9- Assessing the Health of Your Woods with HEALTHYWOODS Phone App.

Aug 13- New Woodland Owner Program: The ABC’s of Owning and Caring for Your Woodland

Sep 10- Invasive plant Identification and Control

Oct 8- Woodland Practices: A wagon tour of the Vinton Furnace and State Forest

Nov 12- Winter Tree Identification – Vinton Furnace State Forest….In Person….

Dec 10- Locating, Maintaining and Marking your Property Boundaries

Jan 14-2022- Pollinator/Grassland/CRP

Registration is open for our 2nd Virtual A DAY in the WOODS program for 2021,   “ADVICE from the WOODS”.

“ADVICE from the WOODS” will take place from 10 AM to noon on Friday, February 12 in the form of a Virtual question and and answer session with professional foresters and wildlife biologists including Stephanie Downs (ODNR-Division of Forestry), John Morton (ODNR-Division of Wildlife) and Dave Apsley (OSU Extension).  Other foresters and NR professionals will be recruited to assist depending on expertized needed to answer questions submitted in advance.

The program will be offered via ZOOM Webinar.  Click here to register!

Submit your forestry, wildlife and other natural resources related questions to Dave Apsley ( [email protected]) on on before February 5, 2021.

Eagle Presentation for Day in the Woods _PDF slides_20210108

Ohio Division of Wildlife – Wildlife Reporting Website:

Opening page: https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/wildlife/Report+Wildlife+Sightings

Direct link: https://apps.ohiodnr.gov/wildlife/speciessighting/

Ohio Division of Wildlife Bald Eagle page

https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/discover-and-learn/animals/birds/bald-eagle 

Ohio Bald Eagle Webcams

Eastlake: https://hdontap.com/index.php/video/stream/eastlake-ohio-eagle-nest-cam-aef-live-stream     

              Avon Lake: https://www.youtube.com/c/AvonLakeEagleCam/live

Cleveland Metroparks: https://www.clevelandmetroparks.com/about/conservation/natural-resources/bald-eagle-nest-livestream

Midwest Region Fish and Wildlife Service guidance for activities near eagle nests (e.g. logging, etc.):

               https://www.fws.gov/midwest/eagle/permits/index.html

 Reducing Lead

https://peregrinefund.org/projects/north-american-non-lead-partnership

More Birding with Brad Opportunities

             Warblers of Ohio: ID and Ecology https://mediasite.osu.edu/Mediasite/Play/1f715f51ea3c4421849fb8e19dcdc5991d

             Marsh Birds of Ohio: https://mediasite.osu.edu/Mediasite/Play/4e7ad0a1d73344b8962e49c9f932a5cd1d

             Raptors: https://mediasite.osu.edu/Mediasite/Play/a04c831d7de74776a2aed10f1a0633b51d

Photo courtesy of Brad Perkins

Our first A DAY in the WOODS program for 2021 “The Fall and Rise of Bald Eagles in Ohio” will take place on January 8 at 10 am.  This program will be presented by Brad Perkins, Executive Directory of the Ohio Forestry Association, and Laura Kearns, Wildlife Biologist with ODNR-Division of Wildlife.

Brad is passionate about bald eagles and photography.  He has monitored eagle nests in Ohio for 25 years.  Laura is actively involved in bald eagle surveys and nest census work in Ohio.

Learn about the recovery of this magnificent bird and its current status in Ohio.   Brad and Laura will share stunning photography, current statistics and trends,  tips for observing and identifying eagles, rescue stories, as well as, their personal experiences studying and photographing bald eagles in Ohio.  The program will conclude with a question answer session.

To register for this Zoom Webinar visit: http://go.osu.edu/ditw2021

We are pleased that so many of you participated in our Virtual A DAY in the WOODS programming in 2020.  Thank you for helping to make it a success in spite of the challenges presented by COVID-19!

Since we are uncertain about how COVID-19 will affect our 2021 programming, we’ve decide to just release our virtual winter programing schedule at this time.  These programs will be offered via Zoom Webinar on the 2nd Friday of each month (January-March) in 2021.  We intend to convene our planning committee in February to game plan for the remainder of 2021.   We hope to be able to offer some live programming in the WOODS later in 2021.

• January 8, 2021 –  10 am to 11:30 am- “ The Fall & Rise of Bald Eagles in Ohio” , Brad Perkins, (Ohio Forestry Association),  and  Laura Kearns (ODNR-Division of Wildlife).
• February 12, 2021 – “Advice from the Woods”   question and answer session with professional foresters and wildlife biologists,  Stephanie Downs (ODNR-Division of Forestry) and many others based on questions submitted.  Submit your questions in advance by email [email protected]
• March 12, 2021 – “Native trees and shrubs for wildlife”,  Ryan Boyer (National Wild Turkey Federation),  Dave Apsley (OSU Extension), and Marne Titchenell (OSU Extension and SENR)

Our November 13, A DAY in the WOODS program Winter Tree Identification was offered virtually via Zoom Webinar.  

Recording of the PowerPoint presentation with Dave Apsley, OSU Extension and Jim Downs, Hocking College

Topics included in this presentation:

• twigs, buds, fruit and other characteristics,
• using bark to identify trees
• resources available to aid in Winter Tree Identification

PDF of PowerPoint with notes: Winter ID Virtual 2020

PDF of PowerPoint without notes: Winter ID Virtual 2020 no notes

Link to playlist of short bark clips: bark id short clips  (note these are currently being uploaded, check this link soon)

Link to Tree ID short videos: http://go.osu.edu/treeid

Fall is in the air, and many of the trees in Southeastern Ohio have already shed their leaves. This makes tree identification more difficult, but there are still many clues that you can use to identify trees in their leafless state.

Dave Apsley (Ohio State University Extension) and Jim Downs (Hocking College) will provide you with the information and tips to help you to differentiate among the variety of trees on your property in the coming winter months.    This program will take place from 10:00 to 11:30 am, and participants in this program will:

• Learn to use bud and twig characteristics to identify trees
• Become familiar with many tree fruits like acorns and other clues that can be found on the ground
• Begin to develop an eye for bark to aid in winter tree identification

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

T

“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 nearly 3,000 woodland owners and enthusiasts just like you.

Map created in
Google Earth pro

Our October 9, A DAY in the WOODS program Mapping you woodland will once again be offered  virtually via Zoom and YouTube videos.    This program will focus on tools that you can use to locate boundaries and other land features, and to create digital maps from location data using free GPS (Global Positioning System) phone applications and online mapping tools.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

These topics will be presented during a live Zoom Webinar:

10:00 AM – Welcome and Zoom Orientation – Julie Strawser and Dave Apsley (Ohio State University Extension)

10:05 AM –  Using Ohio county auditor web resources – Eric Hayes, Athens Soil and Water Conservation District

10:30 AM –  Collecting location information from your woodland using AVENZA maps – Stephanie Downs,  Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry

11:15 AM  Overview of online mapping tools including My Land Plan, Google Earth Pro and other free or low cost mapping tools – Dave Apsley, Ohio State University Extension, Stephanie Downs,  Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry, and Eric Hayes, Athens Soil and Water Conservation District

11:30 Question and answer session with all presenters.

Additional videos which  provide detailed instructions on how to use online mapping tools will be available after the October 9 program : 

How to use My Land Plan to map and manage your woodland Resources, Dave Apsley, Ohio State University Extension, Stephanie Downs,  Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry (30 minutes)

Creating interactive maps using Google Earth Pro, Dave Apsley, Ohio State University Extension, and Eric Hayes, Athens Soil and Water Conservation District (30 minutes)

Videos and other resources from our virtual  A DAY in the WOODS program Forest and wildlife history and future challenges  offered on 9-11-2020 can be found below:

Change in age, structure, and composition of Ohio’s forests –  Tom Macy and Cotton Randall, Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry

Wildlife history – trends in land use and influence on Ohio’s wildlife populations– Mark Wiley, Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry

• Video for both presentations above: Forest and wildlife history and future challenges

Impacts of climate change on forests and wildlife, Steve Matthews,  The Ohio State University, School of Environment and Natural Resources OSU (approximately 60 min):   Impacts of climate change on forests and wildlife-video

• Climate Change Atlas

Impacts of Non-native invasive species on wildlife, Marne Titchenell, Ohio State University Extension, and School of Environment and Natural Resources (approximately 30): https://go.osu.edu/manageinvasives

• Invasive Plant Impacts on wildlife – PowerPoint Slides
• OSU Fact Sheet – Feral Swine
• More Webinars from Ohio Woodland Stewards

Photo courtesy of Jeff Hoffer, Public Safety Supervisor, Ohio State University Mansfield

Our September 11th, A DAY in the WOODS program Forest and wildlife history and future challenges will once again be offered via Zoom.    This program will focus on the only constant in nature, change.  Our wonderful lineup of panelists will discuss the history of Ohio’s forests and wildlife, as well as, some of the current and future challenges facing our woodlands and wildlife.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

These topics will be presented during a live Zoom Webinar:

10:00 AM – Welcome and Zoom Orientation with Marne Titchenell and Dave Apsley (Ohio State University Extension)

10:05 AM –  Change in age, structure, and composition of Ohio’s forests – Cotton Randall, Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry

10:40 AM –  Wildlife history – trends in land use and influence on Ohio’s wildlife populations– Mark Wiley, Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry

11:15 –  Q/A session with Steve Matthews (OSU SENR), Cotton Randall (ODNR-DOF), Marne Titchenell (OSUE and SENR) and Mark Wiley (ODNR-DOW)

Additional Videos produced for this program:

Impacts of climate change on forests and wildlife, Steve Matthews,  The Ohio State University, School of Environment and Natural Resources OSU (approximately 60 min);  This webinar will air live as part of Ohio Woodland Stewards’ Friday’s Escape to the Forest Series. You can attend this webinar live on 9/4/2020 at 11 AM. To register http://go.osu.edu/climatefw .  The video will also be available on Monday 9-7-2020 at:  https://woodlandstewards.osu.edu/resources/webinars

Impacts of Non-native invasive species on wildlife, Marne Titchenell, Ohio State University Extension, and School of Environment and Natural Resources (approximately 30); This video is available now at:  https://go.osu.edu/manageinvasives

Meeting Recording:
Zoom Meeting Recording

• Timber Theft and Trespass in Ohio – James S. Savage, Esq. and Mark Rickey, Service Forester, ODNR-Division of Forestry (Start at the beginning of the video)
• Ohio Fence Line Law, recreational user laws and other issues facing Ohio woodland owners-Peggy Kirk Hall, Associate Professor, Agricultural & Resource Law, Ohio State University Extension, and Amy Milam, Director of Legal Education, Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (Start at minute 51 of the video)

Mark Rickey ([email protected])

• Video of Boundary Presentation from 5-12-2020

• Professional Land Surveyors of Ohio (web link)

• How to Mark Boundaries (pdf)

• Property Laws for Neighbors Ag. Credit (pdf)

Peggy Kirk Hall ([email protected],  farmoffice.osu.edu )

OSU Agricultural and Resources Law Program:

• Recreational User Statute

• Hunting Leases

• Fenceline law

• Trespassing on the farm

Amy Milam ([email protected] ,  ofbf.org )

James Savage ([email protected]) – If interested in Ohio Woodland Owner Advocacy Group Involvement

Originally our A DAY in the WOODS program for August was  designed to explore two broad topics: Mapping and GPS for woodland owners, as well as, Legal Considerations. Since COVID-19 has thrown a monkey wrench into our plans we’ve decided to just cover the Legal Considerations portion of that program on August 14.  We’ll save the Mapping and GPS portion of the program a later date (probably October 9).  Please stay tuned to this site for regular updates.

We are pleased to announce that James S. Savage, Esq. and Mark Rickey, Service Forester, ODNR-Division of Forestry will begin the program with a  discussion on Timber Theft and Trespass in Ohio.  They will share their recent experiences with timber theft in southeastern Ohio and discuss ways that you can protect your woodlands from timber theft/trespass.

Our second presentation features Peggy Kirk Hall, Associate Professor, Agricultural & Resource Law, Ohio State University Extension, and Amy Milam, Director of Legal Education, Ohio Farm Bureau Federation.  Peggy and Amy will discuss Ohio Fence Line Law, recreational user laws and other issues facing Ohio woodland owners.

• 10:00 AM-Welcome virtual A DAY in the WOODS and Zoom orientation- Dave Apsley and Julie Strawser, OSU Extension
• 10:05 AM-Timber Theft and Trespass in Ohio – James S. Savage, Esq. and Mark Rickey, Service Forester, ODNR-Division of Forestry
• 10:45 AM-Ohio Fence Line Law, recreational user laws and other issues facing Ohio woodland owners-Peggy Kirk Hall, Associate Professor, Agricultural & Resource Law, Ohio State University Extension, and Amy Milam, Director of Legal Education, Ohio Farm Bureau Federation
• 11:15 AM Question and answer session

To register for this program: click here!

Below are the resources from Measuring the Trees in Your Woods – Virtual  “A DAY in the WOODS” on July 10.

Topics covered include:

• Making a Tree Measuring Stick
• Measuring tree diameter
• Pacing with accuracy
• Measuring merchantable height of trees
• Determining the board foot volume of trees

Video on Making your own Tree Measuring stick (13:45 minute video): Making-Tree-Measuring-Stick

Tables for making your custom stick:

1. To determine which table to use from below watch the first 2:40  minutes of this video.
2. A 25 inch arm reach works for most people here is the appropriate table: Standard 25 inch reach – Measuring Stick  Download and print the table before you proceed with the video.
3. If after watching the first few minutes of the video you  determine that another arm reach would be better,  download and print the appropriate table below**.
   • 21 inch reach – Measuring Stick
   • 23 inch reach – Measuring Stick
   • 27 inch reach – Measuring Stick
   • 29 inch reach – Measuring Stick
   • 31 inch reach – Measuring Stick

**Note: The scale on the Merritt Hypsometer, used to estimate the number of logs in a trees, also varies with arm reach. The correct interval for a 16 foot log is highlighted in yellow on each table. 

If you cannot find the arm reach that you need to make your stick, just send me an email with the reach that you need and I’ll create a table for you ([email protected])

• Video on measuring tree diameter (4:54): Measure-diameter

• Video on pacing to determine distance (4:22): Pacing-Video

• Video on measuring tree height (4:28): Measure-height

• Zoom Video of PowerPoint from “Measuring the Trees in Your Woods” (Approximately 1 hour):  Tree Measure Zoom

• PowerPoint slides from “Measuring the Trees in Your Woods” (pdf):  Measuring Trees- Virtual DAY in the WOODS

• OSU Factsheet “Using the Tree Measuring Stick”: OSU FACTSHEET F-62

• OSU Factsheet “Measuring Standing Trees”: OSU FACTSHEET F-35

  • Note: this fact sheet contains Doyle and International volume tables to determine tree volumes in Board Feet
  • Other tree volume tables can be found here: Forester’s Handbook-Volume Tables

Please join us for  Measuring the Trees in Your Woods – Virtual  “A DAY in the WOODS” on July 10.

This program will consist of a a homework assignment and a one hour live Zoom Webinar from 10 am to 11 am on July 10.  Topics covered include:

• Making a Tree Measuring Stick (See homework assignment below)
• Measuring tree diameter
• Pacing with accuracy
• Measuring merchantable height of trees
• Determining the board foot volume of trees

Homework assignment: Please download and watch this 13:45 minute video:  https://www.facebook.com/seohiowoods/videos/2701312290090241/

 and make your own Tree Measuring Stick (a.k.a. cruiser stick) prior to the July 10th program. 

1. To determine which table to use from below watch the first 2:40  minutes of this video.
2. A 25 inch arm reach works for most people here is the appropriate table: Standard 25 inch reach – Measuring Stick  Download and print the table before you proceed with the video.
3. If after watching the first few minutes of the video you  determine that another arm reach would be better,  download and print the appropriate table below**.
   • 21 inch reach – Measuring Stick
   • 23 inch reach – Measuring Stick
   • 27 inch reach – Measuring Stick
   • 29 inch reach – Measuring Stick
   • 31 inch reach – Measuring Stick

**Note: The scale on the Merritt Hypsometer, used to estimate the number of logs in a trees, also varies with arm reach. The correct interval for a 16 foot log is highlighted in yellow on each table. 

If you cannot find the arm reach that you need to make your stick, just send me an email with the reach that you need and I’ll create a table for you ([email protected])

This program is free for all participants, but space is limited.   To register for the webinar go to:  go.osu.edu/ditw-zoom.

Once your register you will receive a confirmation email with log-in information for the live Zoom program at 10 am on June 12.  The email will also contain contact informaton incase you have questions about how to make your Tree Measuring Stick.

“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 nearly 3,000 woodland owners and enthusiasts just like you.

Click here to download brochure:  2020 Brochure Final

Thanks to all of you who participated in our virtual A DAY in the WOODS: Identifying the Trees in Your Woods.  Below are the recordings and  resources from that program.

Introductory video on Tree Identification Basics with Dave Apsley (OSU Extension) and Stephanie Downs (ODNR-Forestry).  42 minute Zoom Video : http://go.osu.edu/treeidbasics

Identifying the Trees in Your Woods video on using tree id key and resources with Dave Apsley (OSU Extension), Stephanie Downs (ODNR-Forestry), Jim Downs (Hocking College) and Tom Macy (ODNR-Forestry). 1 hour Zoom Video: http://go.osu.edu/treeidkeying

New series of Tree Identification Clips on You Tube. Currently there are 6 short (2 to 3 min each) videos in the playlist, many more to come soon:  http://go.osu.edu/treeid

To purchase Leaf Identification Key to Eighty-Eight Ohio Trees visit: https://extensionpubs.osu.edu/leaf-identification-key-to-eighty-eight-ohio-trees/

Note: use FREE2020 for free shipping coupon or 20IN20 for 20% off coupon

Reference materials discussed:

• Virginia Tech Dendrology, Tree ID keys (Leaf and Twig), single pages fact sheets with excellent photos, range maps and descriptions: https://dendro.cnre.vt.edu/dendrology/idit.htm
• vTree app for Android or iPhone:   https://dendro.cnre.vt.edu/dendrology/vtree.htm
• Eastern Trees, Peterson Field Guides, George Petrides/Janet Wehr, ISBN-13: 978-0395904558
• The Woody Plants of Ohio, E. Lucy Braun,  ISBN-13: 978-0814204979
  • A Force for Nature: Lucy Braun, Kentucky Educational TV: A Force for Nature: Lucy Braun
• Trees of Ohio: field guide, ODNR Division of Wildlife/Forestry. Free PDF Download: https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr-core/documents/wildlife-documents/ztrees-of-ohio
• Woody Plants of Kentucky and Tennessee: The Complete Winter Guide to Their Identification and Use, Ronald L Jones and B. Eugene Wofford, ISBN-13: 978-0813142500

Please, join us on June 12 for a virtual Day in the Woods focusing on Identifying the Trees in Your Woods.  Dave Apsley (OSU Extension), Stephanie Downs (ODNR-Division of Forestry), Jim Downs (Hocking College) and Tom Macy (ODNR-Division of Forestry), will be your presenters  for the program.

This program will consist of a one hour session including demonstrations and discussions on:

• Using a Leaf Key to Identify Trees
• Resources available online, in paper and for your phone to identify trees
• Our new TreeTalk series of 2-3 minute video shorts featuring many of Ohio’s trees

Home work assignment: Please watch this 45 minute video  Tree Identification Basics to prepare yourself for the June 12 program.  This video features Dave Apsley (OSU Extension) and Stephanie Downs (ODNR-Division of Forestry) and is designed to introduce you to the process of tree identification.

This program is free for all participants, but space is limited.   To register for the webinar go to:  go.osu.edu/ditw-zoom.

Once your register you will receive a confirmation email with a link and password to download your free pdf copy of Leaf Identification Key to Eighty-Eight Ohio Trees, and log-in information for the live Zoom program at 10 am on June 12.

“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 nearly 3,000 woodland owners and enthusiasts just like you.

For questions and information on how to login in contact Dave Apsley at [email protected].

Click here to download brochure:  2020 Brochure Final

We will share resources and some ideas on where woodland owners can begin the journey of planning for the legacy and future of their woodlands. This session would be beneficial to current and hopeful woodland owners, their families, and their stewardship partners. We invite participants to join in the discussion & share their experiences so we may learn from each other!

Wednesday, June 10th, 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Women Owning Woodlands strives to bring topical, accessible, and current forestry and natural resources information to women landowners and forest practitioners. We support women in forest leadership, women who own and manage their own woodlands, and all who facilitate the stewardship of forests.

All are welcome! Please let us know if any special accommodations are needed.

To register for the webinar and get the access information, contact Jamie Dahl— [email protected] or (740) 279-0656.

Webinar flyer is also posted here:  WOW_BeginLegacyJune2020

Below are the videos and resources from all eight presentations from our May 8 Virtual DAY in the WOODS.   Sorry it took so long.  Thanks to all of our partners and presenters for making this happen!

Spring Migrating Birds

• Matt Shumar ([email protected] – Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative) 
• Laura Kearns ([email protected]  -Division of Wildlife

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/2zNTbq28Frk

PowerPoint:Migration – Shumar              Migrants – Kearns

Resources to learn more:

• About eBird: https://ebird.org/about
• eBird Essentials (free online course): https://ebird.org/news/ebird-essentials
• eBird Breeding & Behavior Code definitions:

https://support.ebird.org/en/support/solutions/articles/48000837520

Health Benefits of Woodlands

•  Jarel Bartig ([email protected]-USDA, Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service)

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/w7_M4s75mW0

PowerPoint:Health Benefits- Bartig

Resources to learn more:

• The Nature Fix by Florence Williams
• Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv
• Forest Medicine by Qing Li
• Ohio Leave No Child Inside Collaborators https://ohiolnci.org/
• International Society of Nature and Forest Medicine https://www.infom.org/
• The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs https://www.natureandforesttherapy.org/
• Walk with a Doc: https://walkwithadoc.org/
• Children and Nature Network: https://www.childrenandnature.org/
• National Environmental Education Foundation’s Children and Nature Initiative: https://www.neefusa.org
• RX America: https://parkrxamerica.org/

Crop Tree Management

• Jim Downs ([email protected]-Hocking College)

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/Cgz7XIFZJ4o

Resources to learn more:

• Tree Talk Video- Crop Tree Management (Dave Apsley) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoMphx2Zm-E
• Crop Tree Management: A Tool to Help You Achieve Your Woodland Goals https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/f-50
• Enhancing Food (Mast) Production for Woodland Wildlife in Ohio https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/f-60

Evaluate Your Roads and Trails 

• Bob Mulligan ([email protected]-ODNR-Division of Forestry)

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/tcv6LyLkQpY

PowerPoint:Trails – Mulligan

Resources to learn more:

• BMPs for Erosion Control for Logging Practices https://callb4ucut.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2015/03/BMPguide_Ohio.pdf

Boundary Marking

• Mark Rickey ([email protected]-Division of Forestry)

Video: https://youtu.be/GNAsBAGSeBM

Resources to learn more:

• Fence Line Law Fact Sheet:
• https://aede.osu.edu/sites/aede/files/!import/LineFenceFactSheetApril2009.pdf
• Professional Land Surveyors of Ohio:
• https://ohiosurveyor.org/
• Property Laws for Neighbors: PDF AG. Credit
• Boundary How To: PDF

Look for Spotted Lanternfly & Other Insects

• Jamie Dahl, ([email protected] – Central State University Extension)
• Amy Stone ([email protected], Ohio State University Extension)

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/oBuxIjdjHw8

PowerPoint:  InvasiveForestInsects_Stone_DahlMay2020

Resources to learn more:

• Ohio State Spotted Lanternfly resources:http://go.osu.edu/spottedlanternfly
• SLF Factsheet is now available: http://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/anr-83
• Penn State Extension offers additional SLF resources:http://extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly
• Other invasive pest resources from ODNR Division of Forestry: http://forestry.ohiodnr.gov/
• Great Lakes Early Detection Network App: https://apps.bugwood.org/apps/gledn/

Inventory Young Oaks 

• Dave Apsley, ([email protected], Ohio State University Extension)

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/w2F0ZlSLUlw

PowerPoint:Understory Oak – Apsley

Resources to learn more:

• Barriers to Oak Regeneration – Ohio Woodland Journal PDF
• Leaf Identification Key to Eighty-Eight Ohio Trees https://woodlandstewards.osu.edu/sites/woodlands/files/d6/files/pubfiles/b899-leaf%20key.pdf
• Virginia Tech online Tree ID Key https://dendro.cnre.vt.edu/dendrology/idit.htm

Scout for Invasive Plants

• Dave Runkle, ([email protected]) – Vinton SWCD
• Eric Hayes, ([email protected] – Athens SWCD

Zoom Recording:  https://youtu.be/XQdJn9cQmn0

PowerPoint:Invasive Plants – Hayes Runkle

Resources to learn more:

• The Value of Native and Invasive Fruit‐Bearing Shrubs for Migrating Songbirds: – https://pubag.nal.usda.gov/catalog/1292093
• http://forestry.ohiodnr.gov/
• http://ohiodnr.gov/invasiveplants
• Ohio Invasive Plant Council: https://www.oipc.info/invasive‐plants‐html
• Invasive Plant Calendar: https://www.athensswcd.org/uploads/3/0/1/0/30105193/2020_invasive_calendar.pdf

The COVID-19 crisis has changed our lives in many ways, but one thing we can all do safely is spend more time in the woods. This can provide much needed physical and mental health benefits, but can also benefit your woodlands.  Join us on May 8^th for a virtual DAY in the WOODS (go.osu.edu/ditw-zoom) to learn about “Keeping Yourself and Your Woodland Healthy”. This series will consist of four one-hour live sessions featuring eleven foresters and natural resources professionals.   All sessions will be recorded and available for viewing at a later date. Feel free to join any or all these sessions:

Spring Migrating Birds (9-10 am) – Matt Shumar (Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative) & Laura Kearns (ODNR-Division of Wildlife)

• • The timing of migration
  • Natural history and bird identification
  • Exciting birds to discover during migration
  • Using eBird to discover birds and contribute to science

Health Benefits of Woodlands (11 am-noon) – Jarel Bartig (USDA, Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service)

• • Mental  and Physical health benefits
  • How it works
  • Techniques you can try
  • Resources to learn more

Keeping woodlands healthy-Part 1 (1-2 pm)

• • 1:00  Improve Your Woodland: Crop Tree Management– Jim Downs (Hocking College)
  • 1:20  Evaluate  Your Roads and Trails – Bob Mulligan (ODNR-Division of Forestry
  • 1:40  Maintain Your Property Boundaries– Mark Rickey (ODNR-Division of Forestry)

Keeping woodlands healthy-Part 2 (3-4 pm)

• • 3:00  Look for Spotted Lanternfly & Other Insects (Jamie Dahl, Central State University Extension) & Amy Stone (Ohio State University Extension)
  • 3:20  Inventory Young Oaks and Other Seedlings(Dave Apsley, Ohio State University Extension)
  • 3:40  Scout for Invasive Plants (Dave Runkle, Vinton SWCD and Eric Hayes, Athens SWCD

This program is free for all participants, but space is limited.   To login onto the webinar go to :  go.osu.edu/ditw-zoom. For questions and information on how to login in contact Dave Apsley at [email protected].  Be sure to visit http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods to download the brochure and see our exciting line up for A DAY in the WOODS 2020.

“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 nearly 3,000 woodland owners and enthusiasts just like you.

Click here to download brochure:  2020 Brochure Final

Dr. Risa Pesapane is an assistant professor at The Ohio State University whose research program focuses on the ecology and surveillance of ticks and tick-borne pathogens. She is asking for help collecting ticks from all over the state to fill basic knowledge gaps in the distribution of ticks and their pathogens in Ohio. Ticks of any species, from any host, and any time of the year are requested. We thank you for your assistance in improving our understanding of ticks in Ohio!

Click here to download instructions on how to submit your ticks: TickSubmissionInstructions

Click here for a Be TICK Smart Brochure from the Ohio Department of Health: Be+Tick+Smart+Brochure

New video on ticks produced by Ashley Kulhanek, OSU Extension: https://spark.adobe.com/video/UjbPcNVmKCgn6

Below are links to the latest Tree Talk videos on the Ohio State University, South Centers YouTube channel. In these videos we share a bit about what has been happening recently in Southeast Ohio’s woods. We share some trees and flowers that have been in bloom! Dave also gives a preview to the A Day in the Woods program for 2020.

Click to visit the two newest videos:

Buds and Blooms in the Woods

A Day in the Woods Updates

Ohio State University Extension and Central State University Extension partner each month to host new Tree Talk topics. Check-out the Tree Talk Playlist to see all the past episodes and shorts: go.osu.edu/treetalk. The newest episodes are at the bottom.

New tick video now available

Tick News: (1:49 Minutes) by Ashley Kulhanek, Overview of common ticks with great images and simple graphics: http://spark.adobe.com/video/UjbPcNVmKCgn6

Here are some videos from our July 2019 edition of Tree-Talk focuses on ticks and tick-borne diseases.   Our special guests were ANR Educators Tim McDermott, DVM (Franklin County) and Marcus McCartney (Washington County).  Check out these videos to learn how you can protect your family, pets and livestock from the increasing threat of ticks and the diseases that they carry.

Full episode (29 minutes) including Marcus McCartney’s personal experience with Lyme disease: https://youtu.be/bKkTeJozh1U

Protecting yourself from ticks (3:30 minutes): https://youtu.be/3AwOzLxk5_g

Tick removal (3:41 minutes): https://youtu.be/9HPAuG8cS9Y

Useful websites:

https://u.osu.edu/tick  (click on the tick tab on the top left of the page)

https://tickencounter.org

http://tickreport.com

2020 Brochure Final and the 2020 Family Day Flyer are now both available for download.

Due to the current situation with COVID-19 we will be holding our May 8 and June 12 programs virtually.

More detail about the content of these virtual programs will be provided on this site, via social media and through the local press when we get closer to the dates of these events.  If other changes are warranted they will also be posted on this site.  Stay safe and be sure to make the time to spend A DAY in the WOODS…

In order to provide quality educational opportunities for Ohio’s farmers and woodland owners during these uncertain times Ohio State University Extension has launched Agriculture and Natural Resources Madness a Tournament of Education.

We worked with  our partners to provide a forestry bracket on April 6 with the following topics.  The recorded links can be found below the program descriptions.

Thinking about selling timber? Some things to consider…

Dave Apsley, OSUE and Bob Mulligan, ODNR-Division of Forestry

http://go.osu.edu/sellingtimberapr6

The future of oak is in our hands

Dave Apsley, OSUE and Jamie Dahl, CSUE

http://go.osu.edu/oaktreesapr6

Ohio’s family forests

Jamie Dahl, CSUE and Dave Apsley, OSUE

http://go.osu.edu/familyforestapr6

Visit this OSU Extension web link to learn about this and other distance learning opportunities that we are providing

 Agriculture and Natural Resources Madness

Join Southeast Ohio Women Owning Woodlands on Earth Day for our webinar:

Tree Care and Planting Tips that Everyone Can Use, April 22nd (Earth Day) from 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Ann Bonner from ODNR’s Division of Forestry will offer tree care tips for all. Whether you are managing your backyard or your woodlot, this webinar will benefit you!

To register and get more information on joining the webinar contact Jamie Dahl at [email protected] or (740) 279-0656.

You can access the webinar live here: https://osu.zoom.us/j/445439132

Please do register in advance to get all the webinar tips and handouts. All are welcome!

To download the flyer click here: WOW_TreeCareApril2020

Below is the Tentative program schedule for 2020.  A brochure with registration information will be available soon…

2020 Tentative Program Schedule

May 8 – Breeding Birds- Vinton Furnace State Forest

June 12 – Tree identification- Hocking College

July 10 – From trees to lumber-Zaleski State Forest

August 14 – Using computer software and GPS to map and manage your woodland (AM)- Zaleski SF

August 14 – Legal issues for woodland owners (PM)- Zaleski SF

September 11 – Woodland & wildlife implications of our changing times – Vinton Furnace State Forest

September 26 –  Family Day in the Woods- (Saturday) Vinton Furnace State Forest

October  9 –  Tools and equipment for managing your woodlands and wildlife habitat-Hocking College

November 13 – Building and maintaining woodland trails and roads- Vinton Furnace State Forest

December 11 – Winter tree identification- Vinton Furnace State Forest

Below is our latest Tree Talk video on Crop Tree Management.  If you’ve got a younger woods and are looking for ways to improve it Crop Tree Management may be just the tool for you!  Sorry it is a bit longer than we like, but we couldn’t figure out a good way to break this topic into segments.

Here are the links to the fact sheets referenced in the video:

Crop Tree Management:  https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/f-50

Enhancing Mast Production for wildlife:  https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/f-60

Below are three YouTube videos  from our November TreeTalk hosted by Jamie Dahl, Forest Outreach Coordinator, Central State University Extension with special guest Marne Titchenell, Wildlife Program Specialist, OSU Extension, School of Environment and Natural Resources

TREE TALK Insect Reliance Oak Ecosystems   7:12 Minutes

TREE TALK   Wildlife Forest Resources   9:13 Minutes

TREE TALK – Oak Acorns Wildlife Connection 13:53 minutes

Here is a great opportunity to enjoy Hocking State Forest and to learn about forestry in Ohio from our partners at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry.  DKA

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Hocking State Forest will be the setting for a good look at fall colors and forest resources on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sponsored by the Ohio Division of Forestry, the event is free and will provide plenty of fun for the entire family in a beautiful setting.

The tour begins at the historic Hocking State Forest Cabin, located at 19275 State Rt. 374, Rockbridge, OH 43149. Parking is provided.

“Our foresters look forward to helping you see not only the splendid scenery of Hocking State Forest, but to experience the forest in new ways,” said Dan Balser, chief of the ODNR Division of Forestry. “Come celebrate fall with our foresters and learn about the history, ecology, wildlife and care of this state forest gem in southeast Ohio.”

The Fall Foliage event features displays, bean soup and cornbread, chainsaw demonstrations and wildfire fighting equipment. Wagon tours around the state forest will highlight tree identification, natural oak regeneration, forest practices to encourage healthy tree growth and wildlife habitat, tips for woodland owners, threats to the Hocking region’s hemlock trees and successful efforts to preserve them, invasive plant control and much more. Continue reading Fall Color and Forestry featured at Hocking State Forest tour →

Moonville Tunnel at Zaleski SF

Fall is in the air, and many of the trees in Southeastern Ohio have already shed their leaves. This makes tree identification more difficult, but there are still many clues that you can use to identify trees in their leafless state. “Identifying Trees in Winter” will provide you with the knowledge to differentiate among the variety of trees on your property in the coming winter months.  This program will take place from 9 am to 3:30 pm and will include lunch.

Participants in this program will:

• Develop an eye for bark and tree shape to aid in winter tree identification
• Learn to use bud and twig characteristics to identify trees
• Become familiar with tree fruits like acorns and other clues that can be found on the ground
• Spend the afternoon exploring the forest around the Moonville Tunnel at Zaleski State Forest
• Visit a variety of sites from wetlands to dry ridges to learn about their contribution to the diversity of Ohio’s Appalachian forests

This program will begin at 9 a.m. at the Zaleski State Forest ODNR complex, near McArthur, OH.  After lunch we will carpool to the field site near Moonville Tunnel.  The field portion of the program will include a considerable amount of walking on uneven terrain, so be sure to bring your hiking boots. Continue reading A DAY in the WOODS offers “Identifying Trees in Winter” on November 8th at Zaleski State Forest →

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.

Continue reading “Woodland and Wildlife Research” program offered at the Vinton Furnace State Forest on Friday, October 11th. →

We are partnering to initiate a response to the potential introduction of  the pathogen that causes Sudden Oak Death in southeastern Ohio.  If you know anyone who purchased a rhododendron or lilac plant from Walmart or Rural King this spring, please share this post with them.  Thanks!  Dave Apsley

YouTube Video discussing  Sudden Oak Death and response in SE OHIO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADAH6zdkOY8

On July 16, the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA), in coordination with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) issued a press release indicating that sudden oak death caused by Phytophthora ramorum was detected on rhododendron and lilac plants shipped to Walmart and Rural King stores throughout the state. We have since learned that potentially infected plants were shipped to Wal-Mart and Rural King stores in the following southeastern Ohio cities: Athens, Chillicothe, Gallipolis, Jackson, Logan, Marietta, New Boston, Saint Clairsville, South Point, Waverly, West Union, and Zanesville.

Continue reading Help is now available to assist with removal of rhododendrons and lilacs potentially infected with sudden oak death pathogen →

Date: Tuesday, June 11th
Time: 5:15 p.m.– 7:00 p.m.

Location: Rural Action (at the Kuhre Center) 9030 Hocking Hills Drive The Plains, Ohio

Contact: Jamie Dahl and Cierra Bailey [email protected] [email protected]

Register: Please email both Cierra & Jamie to sign-up so we can plan for refreshments (though drop-ins are also welcome)
Feel free to bring a friend, all are welcome!
Come for the whole session or pop-in for any portion of the time.
If you need any special accommodations, please let us know as far in advance as possible.

Photo Credit: ODNR-Division of Wildlife/Tim Daniel

Most folks are familiar with white-tailed deer, wild turkey and many of the critters that they regularly see in their woodlands, but there are many other wildlife species that are a bit more elusive. Gray tree frogs, flying squirrels, redback salamanders, gray ratsnakes and many other wildlife species are frequently present in our local woodlands, but they often go unnoticed. Join Don Althoff, (University of Rio Grande), Kaylin Callander (Lake Hope State Park), Laura Kearns (ODNR-Division of Wildlife) and Lindsay Rist (ODNR-Division of Wildlife) on June 14 to learn where and when to look for these fascinating critters.  You’ll also learn about their life histories and the habitat needs.

This program will take place at on June 14 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Vinton Furnace State Forest, near McArthur, OH.

For a map with directions to help you find the forest, click here: Directions – Experimental Forest

For a brochure with registration information, click here: A DAY in THE WOODS 2019 Brochure Final Low Res-20zbq6d

A $12 registration entitles participants to lunch and program materials.  To help us make preparations,  please RSVP no later than  Monday, June 10 by mailing a registration form, calling 740-596-5212 (OSU Extension Vinton County) or emailing Dave at [email protected].

Since 2012, “A Day in the Woods” has offered more than 60 programs with more than 100 presenters for woodland owners and enthusiasts just like you.

“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.

The Ohio State University South Centers’ YouTube channel records Tree Talk programs on the second Thursday of each month.  Dave Apsley, Natural Resources Specialist with Ohio State University Extension, and Jamie Dahl, Forest Outreach Coordinator with Central State University Extension serve as the hosts.  Tree Talk covers a wide range of topics of interest to woodland owners and enthusiasts.

Click on this hotlink (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-NSWPUhldRR9Z0HiXHHNRGnqOjSs7JSN) or search for OSU South Centers Tree Talk in your web browser for a complete listing of programs.

Here are some of the latest recordings:

Trees of Ohio-Field Guide Produced by ODNR-Division of Wildlife and Forestry. You’ll receive your copy of this new publication

One of the first steps to improving your woodland is to learn the species of trees and shrubs that grow there.  However, with the amazing diversity of trees found in Appalachian Ohio, this can be a daunting task.  Fortunately, with a little coaching and some practice, we are confident that you are up to the challenge.

Woodland owners and enthusiasts of all skill levels will be sure to benefit from “Tree and Shrub Identification” offered at Hocking College on May 24. First, you will learn to use a simple leaf key to guide you through the process of tree identification. Then you will have the opportunity to practice your skills using the key to identify a wide assortment of tree samples in the classroom.  Later you will explore the woodlands around Hocking College with experienced foresters (a.k.a. tree geeks) to reinforce your tree and shrub identification skills.  You will also learn about other characteristics, such as bark, branching, tree shape, and site conditions to help you to identify trees and shrubs at any time of the year.

Leaf Identifcation Key to Eighty-Eight Ohio Trees. You’ll also receive a copy of this key and learn to use it.

This program, hosted by Hocking College, will take place at on May 24 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Natural Resources Building on the Hocking College campus located at 3301 Hocking Parkway, Nelsonville, OH 45764.  The Natural Resources building is located on the north end of the campus. Parking is available in the North Lot located on the east side of Hocking Parkway.  For a map, brochure and more information, visit http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods.  The $12 registration entitles participants to lunch and program materials.  To help prepare materials and plan for meals, please RSVP no later than the Monday, May 20 by mailing in a registration form, calling 740-596-5212 (OSU Extension Vinton County) or emailing Dave at [email protected].

Click here for directions and a parking map: Hocking College Campus – Parking Map-1e7za5e

Click here for A DAY in the WOODS Brochure: A DAY in THE WOODS 2019 Brochure Final Low Res-20zbq6d

Since 2012, “A DAY in the WOODS” has offered 61 programs with more than 2,500 participants attending. More than 100 natural resources professionals have presented these programs to woodland owners and enthusiast just like you.  For brochures and more details about our full slate of programs for 2019, visit http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods.

“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, U.S. 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.

Southeastern Ohio’s woodlands are home to a rich assortment of plants ranging from our majestic oaks to the most delicate understory herbs. “Spring Edible Plants” will be the focus of the May 10 “A Day in the Woods-2^nd Friday Series” program at the Vinton Furnace State Forest. This program will feature multiple guest presenters who will cover a wide range of spring edible topics in both indoor and outdoor sessions.  Join us as we:

• Explore the spring woods in search of edible plants and fungi
• Learn about the health benefits that many of these plants can provide
• Discover ways that you can prepare these plants to add variety to your diet
• Learn about some of the edible fungi that you may find and can grow in your own backyard

A registration fee of $12 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 [email protected] by May 6.

 Since 2012, “A DAY in the WOODS” has offered 61 programs with more than 2,500 participants attending. These programs have been presented by more than 100 natural resources professionals to woodland owners and enthusiast just like you.

Click here for directions and a map to the Vinton Furnace State forest: Directions – Experimental Forest

Click here for a brochure with registraiton information and more details about our full slate of programs for 2019: A DAY in THE WOODS 2019 Brochure Final Low Res-20zbq6d

“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, U.S. 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, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Be sure to mark your calendar so you don’t miss any of these opportunities to spend A DAY in the WOODS:

• Spring Edibles from Your Woods, May 10, Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Tree Identification, Bonus Friday-May 24, Hocking College-Natural Resources Building
• Non-game Wildlife, June 14, Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Woodland Stewardship Opportunities, July 12, Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Hemlock Ecosystems and Night Sounds, August 9, Camp Oty’Okwa and Hocking State Forest
• Timber Harvesting-Things to Consider, September 13,  Zaleski  State Forest-ODNR Complex
• Family Day in the Woods, Saturday, September 14, Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Woodland and Wildlife Research, October 11, Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Winter Tree Identification, November 8,  Zaleski State Forest-ODNR

Jamie Dahl, Forest Outreach Coordinator for Central State University Extension is hosting a Women Owning Woodlands gathering for folks to get to know each other and determine the type of programming that you would like to see in Appalachian Ohio.

The event will take place on Monday, May 6 from 5:15 pm to 7 pm at the Wells (Albany) Public Library, 5200 Washington Rd., Albany, OH

Please email Jamie Dahl for more information or to RSVP: [email protected]

CLICK HERE to DOWNLOAD a FLIER

Please bring a friend, all are welcome!

Here is a great opportunity to learn about selling timber.  Click here to download the brochure: Selling Timber Highland County 2019

The brochure for the 2019 A DAY in the WOODS – 2nd Friday Series is now available for download.

Click here for a PDF version of the Brochure: A DAY in THE WOODS 2019 Brochure Final Low Res-20zbq6d

We are in the process of printing brochures and will let you know when they are available.

March 5

• Stayin’ Alive- Wildlife Diversity Conference 2019
• Columbus, OH
• https://apps.ohiodnr.gov/Wildlife/DiversityRegistration/

March 6 & 7

• Ohio Forestry Association and Ohio Tree Farm Committee 2019 Annual Meeting
• Landowner Track Starts at 2:00 PM on March 7
• Columbus, OH
• https://www.ohioforest.org/page/OFAAM

March 11 

• Thinking of Selling Timber?
• Coshocton, OH
• https://coshocton.osu.edu/news/thinking-selling-timber

March 30

• Ohio River Valley Woodlands and Wildlife Workshop
• Madison, IN
• https://tristatewoods.ca.uky.edu/

• Southern Ohio New and Small Farm Conference
• Piketon, OH
• https://agnr.osu.edu/small-farm-programs/new-and-small-farm-conferences

May 10^th: Spring edibles @ Vinton Furnace State Forest

May 24^th: BONUS Friday: Tree ID @ Hocking College

June 14^th: Non-game wildlife @ Vinton Furnace State Forest

July 12^th: Woodland Conservation Practices and EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentive Program) @ Vinton Furnace State Forest

August 9^th: Hemlock Ecosystems and Night Sounds, Camp Oty’Okwa in the Hocking Hills

September 13^th: Timber Harvesting-Things to Consider @ Zaleski  State Forest- ODNR Complex

October 11^th: Woodland and Wildlife Research Update

November 8^th: Winter Tree Identification @ Zaleski State Forest-ODNR Complex

I’m seeing pretty good crops of acorns and hickory nuts in Vinton and Jackson Counties this year.  So our deer, turkey, squirrels and other wildlife should do well this winter.  To learn more about the valuable food (Mast) that our trees produce for wildlife check out this Tree talk YouTube video (thanks to Duane Rigsby and Pat Dengel):

Here is a link to our OSU Extension Fact sheet (Enhancing Food (Mast) Production for Woodland Wildlife in Ohio) https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/f-60

We are thrilled that Jamie Dahl was recently hired by Central State University to serve as Forest Outreach Coordinator. We are also proud to add Central State University to our growing list of partners working together to sustain the woodlands and serve the citizens of Appalachia Ohio.  Although Jamie just started in her new role in mid-July, she has already participated in several collaborative outreach and planning efforts.   Below is an excerpt from the Southeast Ohio Woodland Interest Group (SEOWIG) August 2018 Newsletter.  Welcome Jamie!

Jamie Dahl just started a new position as the Forest Outreach Coordinator with the Cooperative Extension and McIntire-Stennis Programs at Central State University. Jamie is co-located in the Wayne National Forest Headquarters in Nelsonville, Ohio. Jamie will be working directly with the Ohio Interagency Forestry Team. This team is focused toward improved forest health and reversing the decline of oak-hickory ecosystems in southeast Ohio.

Jamie will be working alongside Ohio State University Extension and other forestry partners to help assess and fill gaps in forestry outreach and education, with a focus on southeast Ohio. She will also help to support current programing such as: A Day in the Woods, Call Before You Cut, and 4H Forestry and Wildlife Camp. Jamie will primarily serve private landowners and youth as key audiences.

Central State University is one of the partner agencies that comprise the Ohio Interagency Forestry Team.  Member agencies include the USDA Forest Service (Northern Research Station, Wayne NF, State & Private Forestry Morgantown Field Office), USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ohio Department of Natural Resources (Divisions of Forestry & Wildlife), The Ohio State University and Central State University (Cooperative Extension Programs).  The Ohio State University and Central State University are the two land-grant universities in Ohio that deliver cooperative extension programs and services. You can learn more about Central State University Extension here: http://www.centralstate.edu/academics/cse/agriculture/index10.php?num=28.

Jamie has a Bachelor of Science in Forest Management and a Master of Science in Forest Resources, Wood Procurement and Utilization, both from The Pennsylvania State University.  She is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in Higher Education Leadership at Colorado State University with a focus on social science within natural resources. Jamie has previous forestry and natural resources experience in Pennsylvania and Colorado. Her prior work areas include: forest management, public outreach, volunteer management, training, research, and education. She is also an active member of the Society of American Foresters.

Jamie’s contact information is:  740-753-0904 (office); (740)-279-0656 (cell); [email protected]

This us a great opportunity for kids to spend some time at Canter’s Cave to learn about forestry and wildlife, experience the great outdoors, and have some fun with others with similar interests.  A special thanks to the natural resources faculty and staff  at Hocking College for all of their help with this event.

Submitted August 16, 2018

Tracy Winters

Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development

OSU Extension Gallia County

111 Jackson Pike, Suite 1572, Gallipolis Ohio 45631

740-446-7007

[email protected]

4-H Forestry – Wildlife Conservation Camp

Do you have a child who is interested in Wildlife Conservation or Forestry?  Maybe they just enjoy being outside and learning about nature? Or maybe they haven’t had an opportunity to explore the outdoors and all it has to offer. A weekend at 4-H Forestry – Wildlife Conservation Camp might help them decide on a career, or introduce them to college opportunities they didn’t even know exist!

Boys and girls ages 12 – 18 from across Ohio are invited to attend this unique camp held at the Elizabeth L. Evans Outdoor Education Center/Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp in Jackson, Ohio. The camp’s location set, in the rocky hills of Southern Ohio, allows campers to explore the beautiful sandstone gorges, visit the natural waterfalls and see the ancient hemlock that make up the forest.  While they are at the camp, they will also learn about the Native Americans who once lived in and around the numerus rock shelters that can be found on the 100+ acre property. The camp is being planned and implemented by OSU Extension professionals, partnering with staff from Hocking College, Soil and Water Conservation and Central State University. Both 4-H and non-4-H youth are invited to attend.

The camp will begin with check-in from 6:00 PM till 8:00 PM on Friday September 14^th and end late morning with check-out on Sunday September 16^th at 11:00 AM. The camp is an ideal setting for such a program, offering an abundance of natural resources and traditional camp activities. During the weekend camp, participants will participate in both STEM centered educational sessions focused around Wildlife Conservation and Forestry and traditional camp activities. But, this camp won’t feel the least bit like school. Participants will get to try their hand at radio telemetry, wilderness survival, tree climbing, fishing, wildlife and tree identification, hunting and trapping techniques, boating and even some shooting sports activities.  During each session there are lots of hands-on activities and the opportunity to learn about careers in Natural Resources, Forestry, Wildlife and Environmental Science.

In addition to all the sessions, participants will get to try some outdoor cooking, see a sawmill and tree felling demonstration, enjoy a campfire and take part in some traditional 4-H evening recreation.

The fee to participate in 4-H Forestry- Wildlife Conservation Camp is only $35 for the first 40 campers that get registered, thanks to a grant from the Ohio 4-H Foundation.  Once those spots have been filled the price will be $77.00. Only the first 90 registrants will be accepted, and all registrations are due by September 7^th or until space limit is met. An event flyer/registration is available on the web at http://gallia.osu.edu. For more information, contact Tracy Winters Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development, OSU Extension Gallia County via phone at 740-446-7007 or email at [email protected].

4-H Forestry Wildlife Conservation Camp is sponsored in part by a grant from the Ohio 4-H Foundation. Camp is open to all youth ages 12-18, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or disability. Youth do not have to be currently enrolled in the county’s 4-H program to participate. Campers are accepted in the order that registrations are received.

Properly restored logging skid trail

In addition to providing much needed income, a timber harvest is a tool that you can utilize to help you achieve a wide range of goals from improving forest health to enhancing wildlife habitat.   However, without proper planning and implementation, harvests can have long-term negative consequences for your woodland and for your family’s ability to earn a sustainable income from your property in the future.

Timber Harvesting-Things to Consider, a program designed to help you make informed decisions about harvesting timber, will take place at the Zaleski – ODNR Complex on September 14.  If you are thinking about selling timber in the future, consider attending this workshop where you will have the opportunity to:

• Learn how to make sure that your timber harvest is compatible with your goals
• Obtain information on how to market and sell your timber to ensure that you receive a competitive price
• Understand where to get help with planning and implementation of your timber harvest.
• Visit properly planned and implemented timber harvests at Zaleski State Forest
• Learn about Call Before You Cut (1-877-424-8288 or http://callB4Ucut.com) and other available resources

The program starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 3:30 PM.   A registration fee of $12 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 [email protected] by September 10. The Zaleski ODNR Complex is located at 29371 Wheelabout Road, McArthur, Ohio 45651.

Directions to Zaleski ODNR complex: ZaleskiDrivingMapRevised4-13-15PDF-26r6cke

Parking information and Aerial image of Zaleski- ODNR complex: Zaleski ODNR Complex Aerial (002)-1fe4042

“A DAY in the WOODS” and the “2^nd Friday Series” are sponsored by the Education and Demonstration Subcommittee of the Vinton Furnace State Forest.  The principal partners in this effort include 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, The Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, the Ruffed Grouse Society, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Since 2012, “A DAY in the WOODS” has offered 56 programs with more than 2,000 participants attending. More than 100 natural resources professionals have delivered these programs to woodland owners and enthusiast just like you.  Be sure to mark your 2018 calendar so you are sure not to miss any of these great opportunities to spend A DAY in the WOODS:

• Timber Harvesting Things to Consider, September 14, Zaleski State Forest – ODNR Complex
• Fall Treasures in Your Woodland-Fungi, Lichens and More, October 12 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Woodland Wildlife Habit, November 9 – Vinton Furnace State Forest

2018 A DAY in the WOODS-2nd Friday Brochure: A DAY in THE WOODS 2018 Brochure – Low Res-wyeaef

Belgium Coke Ovens on the Vinton Furnace State Forest near the Iron Furnace

Would you enjoy a DAY in the WOODS exploring and learning with your family?

Are you looking for a way to get your kids outdoors and away from their electronic devices?

Have you ever wondered what goes on at the Vinton Furnace State (Experimental) Forest?

Join us at the Vinton Furnace State Forest near McArthur on Saturday, August 18 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) for a fun and educational FAMILY DAY in the WOODS.  The day will include wagon rides and nature walks through the forest, a visit to the iron furnace and Belgium coke ovens, wildfire prevention activities with Smokey Bear and a portable sawmill demonstration.  Additionally, many natural resources professionals (foresters, wildlife biologists, ecologists, archaeologists, and research scientists) will be on hand to lead the activities designed to give kids (grades K-6) the opportunity to explore:

• A variety of wildlife that live in the woods from cerulean warblers to golden eagles and from wood frogs to timber rattlers.
• People from the past from the native American mound builders to the European settlers who farmed and worked the Vinton Furnace that produced iron in the late 1800’s
• Insects including prairie and forest pollinators
• A wide assortment of trees and their contribution to the ecology and economy of the region

The program starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM.   The program is free of charge. However,  to facilitate planning and food preparation we are asking you to please RSVP by calling the OSU Extension office in  Vinton County at 740-596-5212, or emailing Dave Apsley at [email protected] by August 15.

Lunch, snacks and other refreshments will be available for purchase from a local Vinton County 4-H club, or if you choose feel free to pack a lunch and bring your own drinks.

Note: The Vinton Furnace State Forest training center is well off of the beaten path.  There is no reliable mailing address to use with your GPS so be sure to follow these directions (Directions – Experimental Forest).  Have no fear we will have green and yellow signs posted along the 5 or so miles of gravel roads that lead you to a fun filled, educational day.

“A DAY in the WOODS” is sponsored by the Education and Demonstration Subcommittee of the Vinton Furnace State Forest.  The principal partners in this effort include 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, The Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, the Ruffed Grouse Society, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Since 2012, “A DAY in the WOODS” has offered 54 programs with more than 2,000 participants attending. More than 100 natural resources professionals have presented these programs to woodland owners and enthusiast just like you.  Be sure to mark your 2018 calendar so you are sure not to miss any of these great opportunities to spend A DAY in the WOODS (A DAY in THE WOODS 2018 Brochure – Low Res-wyeaef)

• Woodland Stewardship Opportunities, August 10-Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Timber Harvesting Things to Consider, September 14, Zaleski State Forest – CCC Camp
• Fall Treasures in Your Woodland-Fungi, Lichens and More, October 12 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Woodland Wildlife habit, November 9 – Vinton Furnace State Forest

Families, just like yours, own three-quarters of the 8.1 million acres of woodlands in Ohio.  Yet folks do not know where to turn for advice and assistance when they need it.  The program “Woodland Stewardship Opportunities” will cover a wide range of topics that will help woodland owners to care for the woodlands on their property.  Foresters, wildlife biologists and other natural resources professionals from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and Ohio State University Extension will be on hand to discuss and demonstrate:

• Techniques that you can use to improve your woodland for wildlife, timber income, recreation or whatever benefits that you hope to realize from your property
• Strategies for dealing with those pesky invasive plants and insects on your property
• Tools that you can use to encourage oaks on your property
• The many resources (people, agencies and programs) available to answer your questions and help you accomplish the goals that you have for your woodlands

The program starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 3:30 PM.   A registration fee of $12 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 [email protected] by August 6.

Directions – Experimental Forest

A DAY in THE WOODS 2018 Brochure – Low Res-wyeaef

“A DAY in the WOODS” and the “2^nd Friday Series” are sponsored by the Education and Demonstration Subcommittee of the Vinton Furnace State Forest.  The principal partners in this effort include 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, The Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, the Ruffed Grouse Society, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Since 2012, “A DAY in the WOODS” has offered 54 programs with more than 2,000 participants attending. More than 100 natural resources professionals have delivered these programs to woodland owners and enthusiast just like you.  Be sure to mark your 2018 calendar so you are sure not to miss any of these great opportunities to spend A DAY in the WOODS:

• Family DAY in the WOODS, August 18 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Timber Harvesting Things to Consider, September 14, Zaleski State Forest – CCC Camp
• Fall Treasures in Your Woodland-Fungi, Lichens and More, October 12 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Woodland Wildlife habit, November 9 – Vinton Furnace State Forest

One of the first steps to improving your woodland is to learn the species of trees that grow there. With dozens of tree species on the typical woodland property in Appalachian Ohio, this can be a formidable task.  The program “Identifying the Trees in Your Woods” will introduce you a simple leaf key to guide you through the process. We will begin by identifying a wide assortment of tree samples in the classroom.  Later you will have the opportunity to explore the woodlands at the Vinton Furnace State Forest with foresters to reinforce your leaf identification skills.  You will also begin to use other characteristics, such as bark, branching, tree shape, and location to help you to identify trees at any time of the year.

The program starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 3:30 PM.   A registration fee of $12 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 [email protected] by July 9.

Click here to download our 2018 Brochure: A DAY in THE WOODS 2018 Brochure – Low Res-wyeaef

Directions to Vinton Furnace State Forest:Directions – Experimental Forest

“A DAY in the WOOD” and the “2^nd Friday Series” are sponsored by the Education and Demonstration Subcommittee of the Vinton Furnace State Forest.  The principal partners in this effort include 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, The Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, the Ruffed Grouse Society, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Since 2012, “A DAY in the WOODS” has offered 53 programs with more than 2,000 participants attending. More than 100 natural resources professionals have presented these programs to woodland owners and enthusiast just like you.  Be sure to mark your 2018 calendar so you are sure not to miss any of these great opportunities to spend A DAY in the WOODS:

• Tree and Shrub Identification, July 13 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Woodland Stewardship Opportunities, August 10 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Family DAY in the WOODS, August 18 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Timber Harvesting Things to Consider, September 14, Zaleski State Forest – CCC Camp
• Fall Treasures in Your Woodland-Fungi, Lichens and More, October 12 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Woodland Wildlife habit, November 9 – Vinton Furnace State Forest

Yellow-breasted chat at our 2017 Breeding Bird Program

Spring is a busy time in the woods, and some of the most active and colorful inhabitants are the multitude of breeding birds. These species have impressive life histories, and they utilize every nook and cranny of our woodlands in southeastern Ohio. Join us on June 8 at the Vinton Furnace State forest near McArthur for an opportunity to learn about this diverse assemblage of feathered creatures.  Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Observe a variety of forest birds by sight and song
• Experience mist netting and understand the important information gained with birds in-hand
• Learn about ongoing research on the important role that birds have in our oak forests; from blue jays assisting with oak regeneration to forest birds serving as important indicators of forest health and succession conditions.
• Explore many other fascinating aspects of bird community interactions from nest predation to the unique aspects of nocturnal Eastern Whip-poor-wills.
• Spend a day in the woods with experienced birders
• Understand the habitat requirements of many woodland birds

Featured presenters include Kelly Williams, Ohio University; Laura Kearns, ODNR-Division of Wildlife, Mark Wiley ODNR-Division of Wildlife, Katrina Schultes, USDA Forest Service – Wayne National Forest, Bryce Adams, The Ohio State University and Stephen Matthews, The Ohio State University.

The program starts at 8:00 AM (earlier than usual to enhance bird view opportunities) and ends at 3:00 PM.   A registration fee of $12 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 [email protected] by June 4^th.

“A DAY in the WOOD” and the “2^nd Friday Series” are sponsored by the Education and Demonstration Subcommittee of the Vinton Furnace State Forest.  The principal partners in this effort include 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, The Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, the Ruffed Grouse Society, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

A DAY in THE WOODS 2018 Brochure – Low Res-wyeaef

Directions – Experimental Forest

Rural Action Sustainable Forestry link:

http://ruralaction.org/programs/forestry/forest-botanicals/

Link to Tanner’s presentation on 5-11-2018:

Managing Forests For NTFP_VFEF 2018-18x6cd9

Tanner Filyaw-Rural Action Sustainable Forestry

Rebecca Wood (right)-Hopewood Holistic Health sharing her knowledge about the bounties of the forest.

Here are some resources that Rebecca Wood asked me to share with you.

Rebecca’s web page: http://hopewoodholistichealth.org/

Link to Rebecca Wood’s PowerPoint: Rebecca Wood Nature’s Garden 5-11-18-21vaop3

Familiar Herbs for Beginners: 9-Familiar-Herbs-for-Beginners-Ebook-Herbal-Academy-1x77afo

How to make Salves and Teas:how-to-make-salves-and-teas-2ei26ne

Wild Edibles Crossword Puzzle:wild-edibles-crossword-puzzle-1uotnim

Southeastern Ohio’s woodlands contain a rich assortment of plants ranging from majestic oaks to the most delicate understory herbs.  The focus of the May 11, “A Day in the Woods” program will be “Spring Wildflowers and Their Uses”. The featured guest presenters are Rebecca Wood an Herbalist and Ethnobotanist from Hopewood Holistic Health, and Tanner Filyaw, the Non-Timber Forest Products Program Manager with Rural Action.

This educational program is designed to help you:

• Explore the spring woods in search of spring wildflowers and fungi
• Learn about the medicinal properties of many of these plants
• Discover Ways that you can add variety and nutrition to your diet from the plants and fungi found in your woodland
• Spend the day exploring the edible and medicinal plants at Vinton Furnace State Forest with experts in the field

“A DAY in the WOOD” and the “2^nd 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, 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, The Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, the Ruffed Grouse Society, and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

For brochures, directions and more information about our full slate of programs for 2018, visit http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods.  The program begins at 9 am and ends at 3:30 PM.  A registration fee of $12 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 [email protected] by May 9.

Since 2012, “A DAY in the WOODS” has offered 52 programs with more than 2,000 participants attending. These programs have been presented by more than 100 natural resources professionals to woodland owners and enthusiast just like you.  Be sure to mark your 2018 calendar so you’re sure not to miss any of these 8 opportunities to spend A DAY in the WOODS:

• Spring Wild Flowers and Their Uses, May 11 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Breeding Birds, June 8 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Tree and Shrub Identification, July 13 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Woodland Stewardship Opportunities, August 10 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Family DAY in the WOODS, August 18 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Timber Harvesting Things to Consider, September 14, Zaleski State Forest – CCC Camp
• Fall Treasures in Your Woodland-Fungi, Lichens and More, October 12 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Woodland Wildlife habit, November 9 – Vinton Furnace State Forest

2018 A DAY in the WOODS Brochure: A DAY in THE WOODS 2018 Brochure – Low Res-wyeaef

Directions to the Vinton Furnace State Forest:Directions – Experimental Forest

***14th Annual TEACHER FIELD DAYS***  

The Importance of Oak

Seeing the forest for the trees!

 Please join us for two days in the woods Tuesday, June 12 and Wednesday, June 13, 2018 (9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) at beautiful Vinton Furnace State Forest and Zaleski State Forest. The Forestry on Ohio’s Public Lands Series is offered by the ODNR Division of Forestry to provide your students with timely concepts and to help you meet state standards. Come learn more about our diverse and critically important forest landscape, and why oak trees are the keystone species critical to the ecological and economic well-being of southeast Ohio–all from researchers studying them at Vinton Furnace State Forest.

The Importance of Oak instruction and field experience is featured on Tuesday, and a Project Learning Tree educator certification workshop is offered Wednesday. You can attend one (Tuesday) or both days, but need to attend Tuesday in order to participate Wednesday. Graduate credit is available for your purchase if you attend both days and complete the assigned follow up requirements.

Programs are open to ANY teacher/all grades, and take place RAIN OR SHINE. Dress for the woods, weather, and field work. We will be outside Tuesday afternoon for a field trip by hay wagon around the state forest, so wear appropriate footwear, clothing, and bug spray.

Agenda: 2018 ODNR Forestry Teacher Field Day Agenda-15qbjiu

Registration Information and Announcement: 2018 Teacher Field Day Announcement-1fkgyk1

For More information:

Greg Smith, Information and Education Administrator

ODNR Division of Forestry

345 Allen Ave., Chillicothe, Ohio  45601

740-774-1596 extension 106

[email protected]

http://forestry.ohiodnr.gov/

Here is a YouTube video  with some food for thought about tree planting.  Thanks to Duane Rigsby and Sarah Swanson from the OSU South Centers for their assistance.   Hope this is helpful. DKA

Ohio Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Infested Counties as of March 2018

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) was first discovered in Ohio in 2012.  Since then it has been found at several locations including the Hocking Hills State Park in Hocking County and  Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve in Jackson County.  This nonnative invasive pest has the potential to cause widespread mortality in Ohio’s hemlock forests.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (Divisions of Forestry, Parks, and Natural Areas and Preserves), The Nature Conservancy, Ohio State University Extension, the Hocking Hills Conservation Association and others have joined forces to bring to offer an educational program “Hemlock Woolly Adelgid-A pest threatening Ohio’s Hemlocks at two locations in April:

April 5, 2018

Camp Oty’ Okwa  –  Hocking County

Directions to Camp Oty’Okwa

Download Flyer Hocking County

Flyer Camp Oty’Okwa

April 10, 2018

Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp/The Elizabeth L. Evans Outdoor Education Center – Jackson County
Directions to Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp

Download Flyer for Jackson County

Both programs begin at 5:30 PM with optional hike to view magnificent hemlock forests. The indoor portion of the program will begin at 7:00 PM

A closer look at recently attached HWA on hemlock in Washington Co. 10-29-14

Join us to:

• Experience the magnificent hemlock dominated forest
• Understand the importance of hemlock trees to tourism and the environment in Ohio
• Learn the significance of hemlock stands in the Hocking Hills and Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve (the Rock Run area of Jackson County)
• Become aware of the serious threat that Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), a nonnative invasive insect, poses to hemlock trees in the eastern US
  

  Hemlock at Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve

• Receive updates on the current status of HWA in Ohio
• Learn about Ohio’s Efforts to proactively manage HWA
• Join in our effort to detect this pest and spread the word

For more information about Hemlock Woolly adelgid visit: http://ohiodnr.gov/hwa

Appalachian Ohio is known for its beautiful and diverse woodlands. These woodlands, when properly managed, are capable of producing a variety of benefits including habitat for wildlife, clean air and water, as well as, valuable forest products.  Join us on October 27^th as Hocking College Forestry and Timber Harvesting instructors lead us through the process of transforming trees to lumber.

Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Measure and estimate the value of standing trees and logs
• Observe chainsaw safety and maintenance demonstrations
• Watch the experts as they demonstrate safe felling, bucking and limbing techniques
• Participate in the process of turning logs into lumber with a portable sawmill

This program will take place on October 27 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Hocking College, Natural Resources Building (Room 213), 3301 Hocking Parkway, Nelsonville, OH 45764.  Look for the yellow “A DAY in the WOODS” signs at the parking lot.  Most of this program will take place in the woods so please dress accordingly (close-toed shoes or boots, and long pants).  A registration fee of $10 will cover the cost lunch and program materials.  Please RSVP by calling OSU Extension Vinton County at 740-596-5212, or email Dave Apsley at [email protected] by October 23^rd.

Parking Map Hocking College: Hocking College Campus – Parking Map-1e7za5e

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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, Ohio Bird Conservation initiative and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Our next A DAY in the Woods program “White Oak-Importance, Ecology and Management” will begin in Jackson with a tour of Speyside Bourbon Cooperage (https://www.facebook.com/SpeysideJackson/).   Space on the tour is limited to the first 35 registrants.  Currently we are only advertising this program to past attendees and to folks following our blog site http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods. A registration fee of $10 will cover the cost of lunch.  Please RSVP by October 10^th.

To reserve your spot please email me directly at mailto:[email protected] or call 740-710-3009. You can still mail in your payment to the Vinton County office, but please let us know that you are coming so we can hold your spot.

After the tour at Speyside we will head to the Vinton Furnace for lunch.  The remainder of the program will focus on trends and the current status of white oak in Ohio, as well as, white oak ecology and management.  Forest Ecologists from the U.S. Forest Service will be on hand to lead this portion of the program which will mostly take place in the field. This portion of the program will end at 4 pm.

To avoid congestion in the parking lot at Speyside we will met at:

 OSU Extension Jackson County (Map of OSU Extension Jackson County-24no32a); 17 Standpipe Road, Jackson, OH 45640

Registration (with coffee and doughnuts) will begin at 8:30 AM at the Jackson County Extension office, and we will leave for Speyside promptly at 9:00 AM.

• Carpooling to Speyside and to the Vinton Furnace is encouraged
• Closed-toe shoes and eye protection are required for the Speyside tour (Prescription Glasses are acceptable and a limited number of safety glasses will be available on site).

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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, Ohio Bird Conservation initiative and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Oak stand after shelterwood harvest to encourage oak regeneration

In many ways your woodland is similar to your garden.  They will both grow without much tending, but with some investment of time and energy you can greatly enhance the benefits that you receive.   On September 8 ^th, foresters from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Forestry, Ohio State University Extension and local Soil and Water Conservation Districts will be on hand at the Vinton Furnace State Forest to provide you with a variety of Tips, Tools and Techniques that you can employ to increase your woodland’s potential to provide wildlife habitat, produce forest products and even increase your opportunities to enjoy it.

Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Learn how to evaluate the health of your woodland and identify ways that it can be improved
• Decide which trees to remove to reduce crowding and enhance the health of your woodlot
• View a variety of demonstration areas showcasing techniques that you can use to improve you woodlands
• Understand how a properly prescribed timber harvest may help you achieve your woodland goals.

This program will take place on September 8^th from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Vinton Furnace State Forest.  Most of this program will take place in the woods so please dress accordingly (close-toed shoes or boots, and long pants).  A registration fee of $10 will cover the cost lunch and program materials.  Please RSVP by calling OSU Extension Vinton County at 740-596-5212, or email Dave Apsley at [email protected] by September 5^th.

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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, Ohio Bird Conservation initiative and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

2017 Brochure:  DAY in the WOODS -2-27 Final dka-20vq9o6

Map and directions to the Vinton Furnace State Forest: Directions – Experimental Forest

Would you like to know more about white-tailed deer, wild turkey, squirrel, woodcock, ruffed grouse and other game species that inhabit woodlands in southeastern Ohio?  Woodland owners and enthusiasts in SE Ohio will have the opportunity to learn from biologists from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources- Division of Wildlife on August 11 at the Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest near McArthur.

Woodland owners and enthusiasts who attend this program will have the opportunity to:

• Learn about behaviors and habitat needs of common woodland game species
• Understand the relationship between wildlife habitat and forest succession and how they influence wildlife populations
• Visit and discuss a variety of woodland habitats found at the Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Interact with wildlife biologists and foresters, and become aware of the techniques and resources available to help improve woodland habitat in your woods

This program will take place on August 11^th from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Vinton Furnace State Forest.  A registration fee of $10 will cover the cost lunch and program materials.  Please RSVP by calling OSU Extension Vinton County at 740-596-5212, or email Dave Apsley at [email protected] by August 7^th.

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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, Ohio Bird Conservation initiative and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Brochure:DAY in the WOODS -2-27 Final dka-20vq9o6

Map and Directions:Directions – Experimental Forest

Other programs scheduled for the 2017 ‘A DAY in the WOODS – 2^nd Friday Series’ include:

• Tips, Tools, and Techniques to Improve Your Woods, September 8 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• White Oak – Importance, Ecology, and Management, October 13 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• From Trees to Lumber, October 27 – Hocking College
• Winter Tree & Shrub Identification, November 17 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Stargazing, November 17 (6:30-10:30 PM) – Vinton Furnace State Forest

One of the first steps to improving your woodland is to know the species of trees that grow there. With dozens of tree species on the typical woodland property in Appalachian Ohio, this can be a formidable task.  The program “Identifying the Trees in Your Woods” will introduce you a simple leaf key to guide you through the process. You learn to use the key to identify a wide assortment of tree samples in the classroom, then explore the Hocking College woodlands with foresters to reinforce your leaf identification skills and to learn to use other characteristics, such as bark, branching, tree form, and site to help identify trees.

This program is hosted by Hocking College and will take place at on July 28 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Natural Resources Building on the Hocking College campus located at 3301 Hocking Parkway, Nelsonville, OH 45764. The Natural Resources Building is located on the north end of the campus. Parking is available in the North Lot located on the east side of Hocking Parkway.  A registration fee of $10 will include lunch and program materials. To help prepare materials and plan for meals, please RSVP no later than Monday, July 24 by returning a registration form, calling 740-596-5212 (OSU Extension Vinton County) or emailing Dave at [email protected]

***CLICK ON LINK BELOW BUILDING LOCATION AND PARKING MAP***

Hocking College Campus – Parking Map

***CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW FOR 2017 BROCHURE***

DAY in the WOODS -2-27 Final dka-20vq9o6

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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, Ohio Bird Conservation initiative and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

A  DAY in the WOODS program “Crawley Creatures in Your Woods” offered on July 14th at the Vinton Furnace State Forest

McArthur, OH – Most of us are familiar with many of the larger organisms that live in the woods around us, but there is another world of animals that often escapes our attention. An amazing diversity of insects, spiders and other arthropods inhabit our woodlands. Many serve valuable roles like pollinating plants, decomposing plants and animals, and controlling pests. Others, especially the non-native ones, can cause serious harm to plants, animals and even humans if not properly managed. Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Explore the insects, arachnids, and other arthropods that live in your woodland.

• Learn about the important roles that these creatures play in the ecology of your woodland.

• Understand the current and potential impacts that non-native insects have on your woods and Ohio’s forest systems.

• Learn about Ohio’s efforts to manage and understand native and non-native insect pests.

Featured presenters include Donnie Peterson, Wright State University; Tom Macy, ODNR-Division of Forestry; Curtis Young, Ohio State University Extension; and Sarah Rose, The Ohio State University, School of Environment and Natural Resources.

“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, Ohio Bird Conservation initiative and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

This program will take place on July 14th from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm at the Vinton Experimental Forest. 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 [email protected] by July 10th.

Other programs scheduled for the 2017 ‘A DAY in the WOODS – 2nd Friday Series’ include:
• Summer Tree Identification, July 28 – Hocking College
• Improving Habitat for Game Wildlife, August 11 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Tips, Tools, and Techniques to Improve Your Woods, September 8 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• White Oak – Importance, Ecology, and Management, October 13 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• From Trees to Lumber, October 27 – Hocking College
• Winter Tree & Shrub Identification, November 17 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Stargazing, November 17 (6:30-10:30 PM) – Vinton Furnace State Forest

DAY in the WOODS -2-27 Final dka-20vq9o6

Directions – Experimental Forest

Thanks to our partners for all of their support:

Thanks to Rio Grande University and The Ohio State University South Centers we now have a new avenue to reach woodland owners in Southeastern Ohio:

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiz_NLD0NHUAhXCOD4KHVmICyAQtwIIJDAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3Dfti51SPdDwM&usg=AFQjCNHzPSmaaNlK5irljjP0j7yuvUC1GQ

AMJV_USFS OH Management Workshop Flyer_AthensAllDay_Final (00000002)-16o3em6

Spring is a busy time in the woods, and some of the most active and colorful inhabitants are the multitude of breeding birds. These species have impressive life histories and the use diverse habitat available in the forest. Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Learn to identify common forest birds by sight and song
• Experience mist netting and understand the important information gained with birds-in-hand
• Spend a day in the woods with experienced birders
• Understand habitat requirements of many woodland song birds

Photo Courtesy of Stephen Matthews, The Ohio State University

Featured presenters include Kelly Williams, Ohio University; Matthew Shumar, Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, Laura Kearns, ODNR-Division of Wildlife, and Stephen Matthews , The Ohio State University.

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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, Ohio Bird Conservation initiative and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

This program will take place on June 9th from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm at the Vinton Experimental Forest. A registration fee of $10 will cover the cost of a lunch and program materials. Please RSVP by calling OSU Extension Vinton County at 740-596-5212, or email Dave Apsley at [email protected] by June 5th.

For brochures, maps and directions, and more information about our programs for woodland owners and enthusiasts in SE Ohio, visit http://go.osu.edu/seohiowoods.

Other programs scheduled for the 2017 A DAY in the WOODS – 2^nd Friday Series include:

• Crawley Creatures in Your Woods, July 14 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Summer Tree Identification, July 28 – Hocking College
• Improving Habitat for Game Wildlife, August 11 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Tips, Tools, and Techniques to Improve Your Woods, September 8 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• White Oak – Importance, Ecology, and Management, October 13 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• From Trees to Lumber, October 27 – Hocking College
• Winter Tree & Shrub Identification, November 17 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Stargazing, November 17 (6:30-10:30 PM) – Vinton Furnace State Forest

Brochure:DAY in the WOODS -2-27 Final dka-20vq9o6

Map and Directions: Directions – Experimental Forest

Photo Credit: ODNR-Division of Wildlife/Tim Daniel

As spring awakens the forest, the creatures of the night begin their songs and calls during this important time for mating.   This special evening program is designed to give you insight into the nocturnal animals that live in the forest.   Program attendees will have the opportunity to

• Experience the spring forest at night during an almost full moon
• View and learn about flying squirrels
• Listen for coyotes and other night sounds in the forest
• Learn about common frogs, toads, and birds active at night in the spring

Featured presenters include Don Althoff, Professor of Wildlife Conservation at Rio Grande University; Mike Graziano, Herpetologists at The Ohio State University; and Laura Kearns, Wildlife Biologist with ODNR-Division of Wildlife.

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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, Ohio Bird Conservation initiative and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

This program will take place on May 12th from 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm at the Vinton Experimental Forest.  A registration fee of $10 will cover the cost of a light evening meal and program materials.  Please RSVP by calling OSU Extension Vinton County at 740-596-5212, or email Dave Apsley at [email protected] by May 8^th.

For brochures, maps and directions, and more information about our 2017 slate of programs for woodland owners and enthusiasts in SE Ohio, visit http://go.osu.edu/seohiowoods.

Other programs scheduled for the 2017 A DAY in the WOODS – 2^nd Friday Series include:

• Breeding Birds, June 9 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Crawley Creatures in Your Woods, July 14 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Summer Tree Identification, July 28 – Hocking College
• Improving Habitat for Game Wildlife, August 11 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Tips, Tools, and Techniques to Improve Your Woods, September 8 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• White Oak – Importance, Ecology, and Management, October 13 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• From Trees to Lumber, October 27 – Hocking College
• Winter Tree & Shrub Identification, November 17 – Vinton Furnace State Forest
• Stargazing, November 17 (6:30-10:30 PM) – Vinton Furnace State Forest

2017 A DAY in the WOODS Brochure: DAY in the WOODS -2-27 Final dka-20vq9o6

Directions to the Vinton Furnace State Forest: Directions – Experimental Forest

Ricky Layson, Ricky Layson Photography, Bugwood.org

Join us on March 17 near Coalton, OH to experience the timberdoodle (a.k.a. American woodcock).  This odd and amazing bird appears each spring to perform it’s mating ritual the Sky Dance.   Aldo Leopold dubbed it the  Sky Dance in his Sand County Almanac essay.

Learn about the life-history of this amazing bird from wildlife biologists from the National Wild Turkey Federation and the ODNR-Division of Wildlife.   Take a leisurely walk and visit the habitats that the timberdoodle frequents.    Enjoy and the Sky Dance as the sun sets and the timberdoodle takes the stage (assuming  the weather and the birds cooperate).

When:  March 17, 2017- 6:30 PM to approximately 9 PM

Where:  19704 State Route 93, Wellston, OH 45692 (located 1.25 north of the intersection of US 35 and State Route 93).

Link to Location Map

Due to parking limitations and to enhance the experience space is limited to the first 20 registrants.

To register: email [email protected] or call 740-596-5212 by March 13th.

Link to Flyer: Wildlife Conflict Program – Piketon – April 11-2017 (2)-125e9ac

Link to Flyer: Wild Edible Plants UPS 4-14-17-1ks1bpt

For more information and to register click here: https://unitedplantsavers.givezooks.com/events/a-day-in-the-woods-wild-culinary-propagation-adventures

This is just around the corner! Yellow buckeye breaking bud

It is hard to believe 2017 will mark the 6th year of programing for A DAY in the WOODS.  Since 2012 A DAY in the WOODS has delivered 40 programs, with more than 75 natural resources professionals presenting to more than 1,600 attendees.  Thanks so much for all of the partners and all of you who have supported A DAY in the WOODS in so many ways.

We are still working on the details and hope to have a brochure ready to distribute in the coming weeks, but this is what we’ve got planned for 2017.

2017 A DAY in the WOODS- TENTATIVE Schedule

March 17^th – BONUS – Sky Dance- American Woodcock; Evening program starting at  6:30 PM, Space limited, No Registration Fee; Jackson County Ohio  near Coalton

April 14^th – BONUS – Wild Culinary and Propagation Adventures; 9 am-3:30 PM; Sponsored by United Plant Savers, Hopewood Holistic Health, Rural Action and Ohio State University.  A Registration Fee $20 will be handled by UpS; Meigs County Ohio near Rutland

May 12^th  – Spring Night Creatures; 6:30 PM to 10 PM; Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest. Registration fee $10.

June 9^th  – Breeding Birds; 9 AM – 3:30 PM; Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest. Registration fee $10.

July 14^th – Crawley Creatures in Your Woods (Insects/ Arachnids: good, bad & ugly) ; 9 AM – 3:30 PM; Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest. Registration fee $10.

July 28^th -BONUS – Summer Tree Identification.  9 AM – 3:30 PM; Hocking College School of Natural Resources. Registration fee $10.

August 11^th– Improving habitat to Attract Game Wildlife Species; 9 AM – 3:30 PM; Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest. Registration fee $10.

September 8^th – Tips, Tools and Techniques to Improve Your Woods; 9 AM – 3:30 PM; Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest. Registration fee $10.

October 13^t – White Oak- Importance, Ecology and Management; 9 AM – 3:30 PM; Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest. Registration fee $10.

October 27^th -BONUS – From Trees to Lumber; 9 AM – 3:30 PM; Hocking College School of Natural Resources. Registration fee $10.

November 17^th – Winter Tree & Shrub Identification; 9 AM – 3:30 PM; Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest. Registration fee $10.

November 17^th  -Evening BONUS – Stargazing; Vinton Furnace State Experimental Forest. 5:30 to  PM to 9:30 PM; Registration Fee $10.

Below is the YouTube video of the 1/18/2017 ForestConnect Webinar-The Future of Oaks is in Your Hands. 

Note: This is a very long video and so it may take a while for it to load.

Click here for copy of the powerpointt Slides  from the 1-18-2017 Forest Connect Webinar: Forest Connect – Oaks final [Compatibility Mode]-10l5bjj

Oak Forest Ecosystems-Ecology and  Management for Wildlife;  Edited by W.J. McShea and W.M. Healy; 2002; The Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore MD; ISBN 0-8018-6745-2

Prescribing Regeneration Treatments for Mixed-Oak Forests in the Mid-Atlantic Region; P.H. Brose et. al.  20o8; USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station; GT-NRS-33

Ohio Forests 2011. 2014. R.H Widmann et. al.; USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station; NRS-90

Characteristics of Mixed-Oak Forest Ecosystems in Southern Ohio Prior to the Reintroduction of Fire. Edited by E.K. Sutherland and T.H. Hutchinson. 2003. USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station; NE-299

Why Care about Oaks?; 2016. D.K. Apsley. Ohio Woodland Journal. Vol. 23 (4); Pages: 30-31. Why Care about Oaks OWJ Fall 2016-1sgmt59

White-tailed deer herbivory on forest regeneration following prescribed fire and thinning treatments in southern Ohio mixed oak forests. Apsley, K., & McCarthy, B. C.  14th Central Hardwoods Forest Conference. Edited by D. Yaussy, D.M. Hix, P.C Goebel, & R.P. Long, Newtown Square, PA, USDA FS. ( 2004 ): 61-69. http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/newtown_square/publications/technical_reports/pdfs/2004/ne_gtr316.pdf

I will be presenting an oak focused webinar next week (Jan 18-noon and 7 PM) via Cornell’s ForestConnect series.  This webinar series is targeted at woodland owners and others interested in private forest lands management.

Although the official title is “Oak Regeneration” my working title is “The Future of Oak is in Our Hands”.  See below for more detail on topics to be covered and information on how to connect.

Oak Forest Regeneration.  Dave Apsley, Ohio State University

Wednesday January 18, 2017

Presentations at 12:00 to 1:00 PM and again at 7:00 to 8:00 PM (webinars may run long with questions)

Oaks are the dominate species in much of the central hardwood region of the eastern US. They are also important components of northern hardwood and Appalachian hardwood forests.  Throughout the eastern US oaks are not only pivotal as a timber species and hard mast for wildlife, but they also provide important aesthetic attributes and most importantly stability to ecological communities.  As with many hardwoods, oaks are experiencing regeneration complications and failures.  This webinar will explore the ecological and economic importance of oak, establish the basis for the challenges of oak regeneration, factors that have contributed to regeneration decline, and steps that can be taken.  Collaborative efforts to ensure the continued prominence of oak in Ohio will be discussed as a case study with opportunity in other locations.  Presented by Dave Apsley, Natural Resources Specialist, The Ohio State University.

Instructions:

1. Read all these instructions.
2. You need to register for each monthly webinar.  There is unlimited space for participants, the ID simply provides you the necessary access.  Obtain your registration ID via:   https://cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/0fd2318ec3796a188c34be5db4a05ad8   If prompted for a password use “Cornell”.
3. The registration page prompts you for CEU credits.
4. After registration you will receive the link to the webinar and a password. The registration can be used for either/both the noon or 7PM presentation. It should go without saying that you should retain that email.
5. The registration email provides the link you will use the day of the webinar, and can be used at either time.

You are invited to a Zoom webinar.

When: Jan 18, 2017 12:00 PM (GMT-5:00) Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Topic: ForestConnect – Oak Forest Regeneration

Please register through the following link:

https://cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/0fd2318ec3796a188c34be5db4a05ad8

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Large, standing dead, American chestnut at Canter’s Cave 4-H camp

Fall is in the air, and many of the trees in Southeastern Ohio have already shed their leaves.  This makes tree identification more difficult, but there are still many clues that you can use to identify trees in their leafless state. “Identifying Trees in Winter”, an educational program designed to provide you with the knowledge to differentiate among the variety of trees on your property in the coming winter months, will be offered at Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp near Jackson on Friday, November 18 from 9 am to 3:30 pm.  Participants in this program will:

• Develop an “eye” for bark and tree shape to aid in winter tree identification
• Learn to use bud and twig characteristics to identify trees
• Become familiar with tree fruits like acorns and other clues that can be found on the ground
• Spend the afternoon in the woods exploring the wide variety of trees that can be found at Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp, including the rare bigleaf magnolia, ancient eastern hemlocks, yellow birch and even a massive, standing-dead American chestnut.

“Identifying Trees in Winter” is part of the A Day in the Woods-2^nd Friday Series which runs from May through November and is 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.

For brochures and more information, visit http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods. A registration fee of $10 will include meal and program materials. To help prepare materials and plan for meals, please RSVP no later than Monday, November 14 by returning a registration form, calling 740-596-5212 (OSU Extension Vinton County) or emailing Dave at [email protected].  Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp is located at 1362 Cave’s Road, Jackson, OH  45640.

2016 DAY in the WOODS Brochure-Final

Directions-to-Canters-Cave

 Most of us experience the forest during the day, but the forest at night can be quite a different world.   This special evening program features animals that are active in the forest at
night and the majesty of the night sky with minimal light pollution. Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Experience the fall forest at night
• Listen for common and not so common sounds in the forest
• Learn about owls, bobcats, and other nocturnal animals that are active in the woods of southern Ohio
• And if the weather cooperates – view the magnificent night sky with minimal light pollution

Featured presenters include Cheryl Mollohan, Wildlife Biologist & Hocking College Wildlife Instructor (retired); Patrick Quackenbush, Naturalist Supervisor for Hocking Hills State Park; and Mark Peter, Vice-President of the Columbus Astronomical Society.“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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 on November 4 from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm at the Vinton Furnace State Forest.  A registration fee of $10 will cover the cost of dinner and program materials.  Please RSVP by calling OSU Extension Vinton County at 740-596-5212, or email Dave Apsley at [email protected] by October 31.

2016 DAY in the WOODS Brochure-Final                                  Directions – Experimental Forest

      Day in the Woods Partners

Below is another opportunity for folks in southeastern Ohio with an interest in woodlands:

Ash Salvage Harvest and the Opportunities After

Discussion on:

• impacts of unwanted species
• future stand growth
• wildlife opportunities

 Franz Property* in Athens, OH

 October 19, 2016- 5:00 pm to Dark

 *Carpooling from

ODNR Wildlife/Forestry Office, 360 East State Street, Athens, OH 45701

Wrap up at ODNR Office

Please send RSVP and any questions to:

Stephen Rist-[email protected]-740-272-8519

Many of Ohio’s native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants can be successfully propagated from seed. The key is to understand how they reproduce in nature and to mimic those conditions in your backyard or woodland.  This program is designed to give you an introduction to techniques and resources that you can use to add to the native plant diversity on your property. Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Learn how and when to collect the seed of native plants
• Understand a variety of seed treatments to enhance your success
• Explore techniques used to vegetatively reproduce some native plants
• Learn about Ohio’s Pollinator Initiative and how you can help restore native pollinators
• Become familiar with the importance of site selection and maintenance for the success of your planting

Featured presenters include Gerald “Trey” Scott, Zone Botanist with the U.S. Forest Service at Wayne National Forest; Perry Brannan, Service Forester with the ODNR Division of Forestry; and Charlie Allen, Wildlife Biologist with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pollinator Program.

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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 on October 14 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Wayne National Forest Headquarters.  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 [email protected] by October 10. As an added bonus you’ll have the opportunity to discover the wonder and beauty of the Wayne National Forest and experience the natural beauty of wildflowers, trees, herbs, and shrubs found there.

Location: Wayne National Forest Headquarters, 13700 US-33, Nelsonville, OH 45764, United States map

2016 DAY in the WOODS Brochure-Final

Our partners:

Thanks to all who helped to make the chainsaw training at the Farm Science Review a success.

Three beautiful (but hot) days + 4 experts with extensive knowledge= 6 hours of great training.

Over the 3 days 97 people attended all or part of the training and demonstrations at the Gwynne.  If this training helps to prevent one injury it was well worth it!

Special thanks to Dale Hatfield, Hocking College; Tom Schuman, ODNR-Division of Forestry; Scott Smith, Bryan Equipment; and Scott Brenner, Endor’s Arborist & Rope Supply for sharing their valuable experience at this valuable training.  All so thanks to Brad Perkins for helping to arrange speakers and setting up the training site, and to Mary Griffith for helping to work us into the schedule and for promoting the event.

Coyote in southern Ohio hayfield

Ever since the first humans set foot in Ohio more than 10,000 years ago, human and wildlife populations have been interconnected.  This relationship changed considerably after settlement and expansion of Europeans in the 1800’s and early 1900’s and resulted in several species being completely eliminated from the state. Now many of these species are on the rebound, but new threats to these and other species are rising.  Join us at the Vinton Furnace State Forest on September 9 to learn about the fascinating relationships between human and wildlife populations. Program attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Explore historic trends in both wildlife and human populations in Ohio
• Understand the influence of past land-use on forest succession and wildlife habitat
• Understand the effects of hunting and trapping on wildlife populations
• Learn about factors like invasive species and diseases that can influence wildlife

Featured presenters include Gabe Karns, Researcher with the Terrestrial Wildlife Ecology Laboratory at the Ohio State University School of Environment and Natural Resources; Jennifer Finfera, Wildlife Biologist, United States Fish and Wildlife Service; and Lee Crocker, Regional Biologist, National Wild Turkey Federation.

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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 [email protected] by September 5.

Directions – Experimental Forest

2016 DAY in the WOODS Brochure-Final

Tamarack or eastern larch

One of the first steps to improving your woodland is to know the species of trees that grow there. With dozens of tree species on the typical woodland property in Appalachian Ohio, this can be a formidable task.  The program “Identifying the Trees in Your Woods” will introduce you a simple leaf key to guide you through the process. You will have the opportunity to use the key to identify a wide assortment of tree samples in the classroom, then explore the Hocking College woodlands with foresters to reinforce your leaf identification skills and to learn to use other characteristics, such as bark, branching, tree form, and site to help identify trees.

This program will is hosted by Hocking College and will take place at on July 22 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Natural Resources Building on the Hocking College campus located at 3301 Hocking Parkway, Nelsonville, OH 45764. The Natural Resources Building is located on the north end of the campus. Parking is available in the North Lot located on the east side of Hocking Parkway.  For a map, brochure and more information, visit http://u.osu.edu/seohiowoods. A registration fee of $10 will include lunch and program materials. To help prepare materials and plan for meals, please RSVP no later than Monday, July 18 by returning a registration form, calling 740-596-5212 (OSU Extension Vinton County) or emailing Dave at [email protected].

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd Friday Series” are sponsored by the Education and Demonstration Subcommittee of the Vinton Furnace State Forest with support from the Ohio State University Extension, ODNR-Divisions of Forestry and Wildlife, U.S. Forest Service, Vinton County Soil and Water Conservation District, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hocking College, National Wild Turkey Federation, Glatfelter, Ohio Tree Farm Committee and Ohio’s SFI Implementation Committee.

Future 2^nd Friday Series programs scheduled for 2016 include: Preparing Your Woods for an Uncertain Future (Aug. 12, Vinton Furnace State Forest); Streams and Streamside Forests (Aug. 26, Zaleski State Forest); Wildlife and Interactions (Sept. 9, Vinton Furnace State Forest); Propagating Native Trees, Shrubs and Herbs (Oct. 14, Wayne National Forest); A Night in the Forest (Nov. 4, Vinton Furnace State Forest), and Winter Tree Identification (Nov. 18, Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp).

Hocking College Campus – Parking Map

2016 DAY in the WOODS Brochure-Final

Now that the constant drone of cicadas is quieting and many of your trees are exhibiting broken and wilted branch tips, you may be wondering about the seriousness of any inflicted damage. What you may not have thought about are the effects of cicadas on wildlife populations. The “A Day in the Woods-2^nd Friday Series” program on July 8 will investigate the phenomenon of the 17-year periodical cicada in detail.  Featured speakers for this program include Joe Boggs, entomologist-OSU Extension; Mark Wiley, wildlife biologist-ODNR Division of Wildlife; and Tim McDermott, D.V.M-OSU Extension.

This program is designed to help you:

• Explore the life cycle of this amazing insect
• Learn about the damage that cicadas cause to your trees and shrubs
• Understand the relationships between cicadas, wild turkey and other wildlife
• Become familiar with some other insects and their interactions with forests and wildlife
• Learn about ticks, the diseases that they can transmit and how to protect your family and pets

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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.

2016 DAY in the WOODS Brochure-Final

Directions – Experimental Forest

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 [email protected] by July 1.

You are invited to join SEOWIG for a tour of Dave and Pam Schatz’ Tree Farm located three miles from Tuppers Plains, Meigs County, Ohio.  Dave is a retired ODNR service forester and long time SEOWIG member.  He along with service foresters Perry Brannan and Cameron Bushong will guide us along trails observing various forest management practices.  Mature stands of Virginia pine were clear cut in 1999.  Several acres were replanted to loblolly pine while most of the area was left to regenerate to native hardwoods.  We will observe management practices that have been carried out in the form of thinning, corrective pruning of hardwoods on mainly oak and cherry, and most recently crop tree release.  Growth responses will be noted.  Other subjects covered will be white oak mortality, what is a crop tree, wildlife management considerations, aesthetics, as well as forest access trail establishment and maintenance.  

 In addition, for those interested, Pam will show what they have done with extensive plantings of hosta and lilies.  The hosta number close to two hundred plants with nearly thirty varieties.   Deer control will be discussed with regard to the hosta and lilies.

 This event is free and open to everyone.  The tour begins 1:00 pm on Saturday, June 25, and will last roughly 2 hours.   Visit www.seowig.weebly.com  for directions and more information.

It took a while, but here are the presentation from the May 13th “A DAY in the WOODS” program.

Rebecca Wood’s presentation on edible plants:

Wildfood for Woodland Owners Rebecca Wood 2016 [Compatibility Mode]

Wildfirst Aid Notes – Rebecca Wood 2016

Tanner’ Filyaw’s Ramp presentation:

Ramps Cultivation and Conservation_NFF-Tanner Filyaw-Rural Action

Rebecca Wood our featured presenter from Hopewood Holistic Health

Southeastern Ohio’s woodlands contain a rich assortment of plants ranging from majestic oaks to the most delicate understory herbs.  The focus of the May 13 “A Day in the Woods” program will be “Spring Edible Plants.” The featured guest presenter is Rebecca Wood from Hopewood Holistic Health. Rebecca is an Herbalist and Ethnobotanist.  She recently retired from Hocking College where she taught a variety of classes including field botany, plant identification and herbal studies.

This educational program is designed to help you:

• Learn to identify many of the edible plants found in SE Ohio
• Understand the ecology of these plants
• Learn to recognize some common woodland mushrooms
• Become familiar with the many resources available to help you further understand the nutritional and medicinal value of these plants and mushrooms
  

  Colorful addition to lunch at our last edible class

• Explore edible and medicinal plants at Vinton Furnace State Forest

“A Day in the Woods” and the “2^nd 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, 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.

For brochures and more information about our full slate of programs for 2016, visit http://go.osu.edu/seohiowoods.  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 [email protected] by May 9.