Forestry seminars at NY farm show

By Blake Jackson

The New York Forest Owners Association is set to host forestry seminars at the upcoming New York Farm Show, covering a diverse range of topics such as deer management, insects and diseases, maple syrup production, and more. The seminars, scheduled for February 23-24 in the Martha Eddy Room of the Arts and Home Building, aim to provide valuable insights and knowledge for landowners and forestry enthusiasts.

On Friday, February 23, the seminars kick off with a presentation on "Best practices on a small woodlot" by Peter Smallidge, Extension forester with Cornell Cooperative Extension. Following that, Smallidge will delve into the nuances of "Firewood from private woodlands: Techniques, tactics, and production." Brendon Quirion, big-game biologist with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, will address "Deer management and problems," offering strategies to mitigate the impact of white-tailed deer on forest ecosystems. The day concludes with Kim Adams from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry discussing "Insects and diseases in your woods."

On Saturday, February 24, Kristina Ferrare of the New York State Maple Producers Association will present "Maple syrup making for the small producer," providing insights into the enjoyable and educational process of making syrup from sugar maple trees. Lacey Smith, biologist with the Pollinator Partnership and USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, will shed light on "Supporting pollinators in woodlands," emphasizing the importance of native pollinators and ways to support them.

The afternoon sessions on Saturday cover topics such as "Landowner liability in rural New York" presented by Brendan Conley of Colligan Law Firm, providing insights into state laws related to the recreational use of private rural lands. John Bartow, executive director of Empire State Forest Products Association, will discuss "New laws, regulations, and programs that can affect your property," offering updates on legislative activities impacting woodlot management. The final seminar, "CommuniTree Steward Program," presented by Leanna Nugent, community forestry specialist with Cornell Onondaga County Cooperative Extension, introduces a volunteer-based program focused on tree projects throughout the community.

These seminars provide an excellent opportunity for attendees to gain valuable knowledge and stay informed about the latest developments in forestry and land management.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-paul-hartley