Forest Management

The Delmarva Woodland Stewards Program wrapped up this October, training 31 volunteers in the fundamental arts and science of ecological forest management. The program focuses specifically on the types of forests found on the coastal plain of the eastern shore and serves those geographically located on the Delmarva Peninsula who are residents of Delaware and Virginia.

This webinar series, designed for green industry professionals, was held in two parts (fall 2020 and spring 2021).

Has Artificial Intelligence (AI) progressed to the point where it can be used to create something as individualized as a forest stewardship plan? It can assist us with a variety of tasks, but it can't replace human interaction and interpretation. At least, not yet.

The News and Notes roundup for this issue shares news about a potentially new invasive plant species that may affect Maryland, and information about a potentially new avenue for fighting Emerald Ash Borer. Additional items share a property owner's journey to stewardship, a way for power utilities to expand early successional habitat, and results of a survey that asked property owners about methods for managing invasive species.

Publications to help you better manage your woodlands.

New from The Woods in Your Backyard Partnership, the Woodland Health Practices Field Guide provides the latest, research-based information on land-care practices.

A non-native nematode is causing beech leaf disease in native Maryland beech trees. This article offers advice on identifying BLD in local beech trees and what to do if you find evidence.

The News and Notes roundup for this issue notes that invasive plant species are affecting other countries as well as the U.S., notes that a vital program led by University of Maryland researchers will return to operation in space, shares information about watersheds and drinking water, and wonders if a new app will revolutionize forestry mapping.