By Andi Anderson
The 2025 Tri-State Forest Stewardship Conference is set for March 1 at the Grand River Center, Dubuque, Iowa. Check-in starts at 8 a.m., and the conference begins at 9 a.m.
Keynote Presentation
The event features a keynote by Lara Nolder from the University of Iowa, discussing cultural resource management and ancient burial site protections in Iowa.
Session Highlights
- Tree Identification Basics – Learn essential skills to identify trees and make informed land management decisions.
- Emerging Forest Health Issues – Understand the latest tree health concerns in the Upper Midwest and solutions for maintaining forest vitality.
- Pesticide Impact on Natural Areas – Explore how pesticides affect non-target plants and wildlife in Illinois forests.
- Chronic Wasting Disease in Iowa – Discover how Iowa’s initiatives aim to manage and mitigate CWD’s spread in deer populations.
Afternoon Discussions
- Forest Farming – Learn about non-timber forest products like mushrooms and tree sap.
- Generational Land Transfers – Understand estate planning, succession strategies, and tax implications for landowners.
- Chainsaw Maintenance – Gain insights into chainsaw safety, maintenance, and efficiency.
- Invasive Species Control – Explore methods to manage emerging invasive plants threatening forests.
Final Keynote Panel
The conference concludes with forestry experts from Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois discussing conservation initiatives, cost-share programs, and forestry trends in the Tri-State region.
Registration Details
Pre-registration is required. Fees are $55 before February 21 and $65 afterward. Register via the University of Illinois Extension at (815) 858-2273.
This conference, hosted by Iowa State Extension, University of Wisconsin Extension, and University of Illinois Extension, is a must-attend for anyone invested in forest stewardship and sustainable agriculture.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Illinois, Sustainable Agriculture