Forest Health Program registration deadline nearing

Forest health will take the center stage at the annual Current Topics in Forest Health seminar set for later this month.

The deadline to register is Dec. 9.

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.

Topics to be covered this year include:

• Effects of Post-planting Clopyralid Application on Growth and Survival of Larch and Douglas-fir Andrew Nelson, University of Idaho
• Update on Existing and Emerging Biological Controls for Idaho Weeds. Paul Brusven, Nez Perce Tribe-Biocontrol Center
• Arthropods Behaving Weirdly: Spruce Spider Mites on Douglas-fir. Tom Eckberg, Idaho Dept. of Lands
• How New is New? Update to Idaho’s Noxious Weeds includes Goatsrue, Stary Stonewort, and Turkish thistle. Tim Prather, University of Idaho
• Balsam Woolly Adelgid in Idaho – Biology, Infestation Effects on Subalpine and Grand Fir, and Management Options. Gina Davis, U.S. Forest Service
• Western Redcedar Dieback in the Inland Northwest Melissa Fischer, Washington DNR

The seminar will be held in Coeur d’Alene, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 16, in Room 106 of the Meyer Health and Science Building at the North Idaho College.

The program is eligible for 5 Idaho pesticide license re-certification credits, 5 Society of American Foresters continuing forestry education credits, and 6 Idaho Pro-Logger continuing education credits. The program can accommodate up to 100 people.

Participants should pre-register by Friday, Dec. 9 to ensure their place (registration forms are available at local University of Idaho Extension Offices or online with a credit card at uidaho.edu/ForestHealth). A $26 registration fee covers handouts and refreshments.

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 the University of Idaho Extension office in Kootenai County at 208-292-2525.