UI forest health program on tap

Animals, plants, insects, and diseases can sometimes impede reforestation, wildlife habitat, or other forest stewardship goals. Current Topics in Forest Health is an annual program that updates forest owners, foresters, and others on methods to improve forest health.

This year’s program will be held Friday, Dec. 13, in Room 106 of the Meyer Health and Science Building at the North Idaho College in Coeur d’Alene. It will begin at 8 a.m. and is scheduled to end at 3:45 p.m.

Topics to be covered this year include whether conditions are developing for the return of western white pine pole blight; grass control for reforestation; weeds, climate change, and herbicide resistance; identification of grasses and grass-like plants in forest environments; personal protective equipment for pesticide handlers; tussock moth, budworms, and other defoliators of Douglas fir and grand fir; and more.

The program is eligible for five Idaho pesticide license re-certification credits, 5.5 Society of American Foresters continuing forestry education credits, and 5.5 Idaho Pro-Logger continuing education credits.The program can accommodate up to 100 people. Participants should pre-register by Friday, Dec. 6, 2019 to ensure their place (registration forms are available at local University of Idaho Extension offices). A $24 registration fee ($26 for online registration with a credit card at uidaho.edu/ForestHealth) covers handouts and

Current Topics in Forest Health is an Idaho Forest Stewardship program, co-sponsored by University of Idaho Extension, the Idaho Department of Lands, and many other agencies and organizations. For questions on the program, contact Chris Schnepf at 208-446-1680.