2008 Class Calendar

Insects & Diseases of Minnesota Forests and Exotic Insect Invaders
Learn what insects and diseases may affect your trees. How active are these insects? What type of damage might they do? What we should expect this year? Also learn about exotic insect pests that are either present in Minnesota or may soon be present. Mike Albers, an entomologist at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will present and answer your questions.

Thursday, January 24, 6:00-8:00pm
Cloquet: Cloquet Forestry Center (map), new conference room
Cost: $20
Info: Mike Reichenbach, 218-726-6470
Registration: Register online or contact Denise Volk, 888-241-0724
This class provides one Woodland Advisor credit: WA C2.

Energy-Saving Landscapes
Learn how trees and shrubs can be used to help you save energy year round. Strategically placed trees and shrubs in shelterbelts, windbreaks, living snow fences and in the home lawn, can enhance property value, aesthetics, wildlife and can reduce energy costs by 25 to 30%. Participants will also learn about available cost share programs for rural landowners. Livestock producers can also benefit from these plantings around feedlots and confinement buildings. Useful publications will be available.

Thursday, January 24, 7:00-9:00pm (changed from the original date of Jan. 17)
Hutchinson: McLeod County Fairgrounds (directions), Extension and Parks Bldg.
Cost: $20
Info: Gary Wyatt
Registration: Kathy Eckwright, 888-241-3214

Thursday, January 24, 2:00-5:00pm
Mora: Kanabec County Public Services Building, 905 E. Forest Avenue, Room #101 (map)
Cost: $20
Info & registration: Diomy Zamora, 888-241-0720
Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13, plus continuing education credits for Master Gardeners.

Harvesting & Selling Timber
Are you considering selling timber now or in the future? If so, this class is for you. You'll learn about the different ways timber is sold, how to select a forester and a logger, what should be included in a contract, and much more. Many landowners perform only a few timber sales on their property, so even if you're just starting to consider selling timber this is a good class to attend. After this class, selling timber should be a more positive experience for you, your land, and your checkbook.

Thursday, January 24, 6:30-9:00pm
Preston: Room 108, Fillmore County Office Building, 902 Houston Street NW (map)
Cost: $20, pre-registration is requested
Info: Angela Gupta, 507-280-2869, or Kristi Ruesink, 507-765-3896
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA C6

From Glaciers to Global Climate Change: Minnesota's past, present, and future forests
Climate change is everywhere in the news these days. There's no longer any question--it is happening. But how will it affect Minnesota's forests? This presentation will begin with a review of how our forests came to be what they are today, including glacier activity, timber harvesting, development, and more. We'll then discuss possible impacts of current changing climate and some steps that landowners and land managers can take to prepare.

Tuesday, January 29, 6:00-8:30pm
Rochester: Heintz Ctr, 1926 Collegeview Drive SE, Room HC132 (map)
Cost: $20, pre-registration is requested
Info & registration: Angela Gupta, 507-280-2869, or Mary Jane Stearns, 507-536-6310, or 888-241-4536
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

Woodland Ownership and Income Taxes
This class will describe options and tools that are helpful in minimizing your income tax burden. Learn how these options and tools apply even if you are not considering a timber harvest. If you plan to harvest timber this class will provide you with sources of information needed for filing your taxes. You will also learn about a state program, the Sustainable Forestry Incentive Act. This program provides woodland owners with an annual payment as an incentive to maintain and manage their woodland. Participants will also receive a list of resources regarding intergenerational land transfer as a preview of a new class on this topic.

Tuesday, January 29, 6:00-8:45pm
Forest Lake: Gander Mountain, 14640 W. Freeway Drive, Forest Lake, MN (Exit 129 off of I-35E)
Cost: $20
Info: Mike Reichenbach, 888-240-0724
Registration: Denise Volk, 888-240-0724

Property Mapping with Internet Mapping Services
Learn how to use several of the Internet mapping services available on the web to map your property including topography, wetlands, cover type and watersheds. Produce a quality map of your property to take home using the service of your choice. Disclaimer: Quality of the final map is based on the highest quality photos available.

Wednesday, January 30, 6:00-9:00pm
Duluth: University of Minnesota Duluth, Computer Lab 116
Cost: $25
Info & registration: Boulder Lake ELC, 218-721-3731 or boulder@d.umn.edu
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

What's Bugging Your Trees?
Learn about the latest ‘hot topics’ in forest health: insects, diseases and environmental stress that impact the vigor and productivity of your forest. Stay up to date with current information on exotic invasives like the Emerald Ash Borer. Guest Instructor: Mike Albers, DNR-Forest Health Specialist.

Thursday, January 31, 6:30-8:30pm
Grand Rapids: Forest History Center
Cost: $10
Info & registration: Julie Miedtke, 218-327-7365

Energy-Saving Landscapes **Class Cancelled**
Learn how trees and shrubs can be used to help you save energy year round. Strategically placed trees and shrubs in shelterbelts, windbreaks, living snow fences and in the home lawn, can enhance property value, aesthetics, wildlife and can reduce energy costs by 25 to 30%. Participants will also learn about available cost share programs for rural landowners. Livestock producers can also benefit from these plantings around feedlots and confinement buildings. Useful publications will be available.

Tuesday, February 5, 7:00-9:00pm
Morris: West Central ROC & Extension Regional Center
Cost: $20
Info: Gary Wyatt
Registration: Kathy Eckwright, 888-241-3214
Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13, plus continuing education credits for Master Gardeners

Maple Syrup Clinic
Here is your opportunity to learn how to tap a few trees in your yard and make high quality maple syrup products. The program will have something for the beginner and the experienced producer. Learn about recent equipment innovations and proven technologies used in the industry today. There will be ample time for questions and discussion. Written materials will be available for participants.

Wednesday, February 6, 6:30pm
St. Cloud: Midtown Office Complex, 3400 1st Street North (map)
Info: Carl Hoffman, Stearns Co. Extension Office, 320-255-6169 or 800-450-6171

Thursday, February 7, 6:30-8:30pm
Grand Rapids: Forest History Center (map)
Cost: $10
Info & registration: Julie Miedtke, 218-327-7365

Saturday, March 1, 10:00 am
Mora: Mora Middle School
Info: Dana Raines, Onanegozie RC & D Office, 320-679-4604
This Maple Clinic is part of the "Guide for Rural Living" Workshop sponsored by the Onanegozie RC & D Offce and the Kanabec County Extension Office.

Monday, March 3, 7:00 pm
Owatonna: Isaak Walton League Cabin (4.5 miles south on County Road 45, 0.5 miles west on County Road 31) (map)
Info: Bradley Carlson, Steele County Extension Office, 507-444-7685
Cost: $10 individual, $15 family

Carbon Credits: Benefits for MN landowners
Farmers, grassland and woodland owners have an opportunity to receive payments for conservation tillage methods, or recent plantings of perennial grass and trees by selling carbon credits through the Chicago Climate Exchange. The carbon credits are purchased by companies to help aid and abate the global climate change through carbon sequestration. Learn more about how to qualify for carbon credit payments and how these plantings sequester carbon!

Thursday, February 7, 2:00-4:00pm
Alexandria: Public Library, 720 Fillmore Street (map)
Cost: $20
Info: Diomy Zamora
Registration: Sue Crotty, 888-241-0720
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

Thursday February 7, 6:00-9:00pm
Koochiching County: Call for location. This class may be offered using Interactive TV or other web based tools.
Cost: $20
Info and Registration: Ryan Heinen, Koochiching Soil and Water Conservation District, 218-283-1175
Sponsored by Koochiching SWCD, Koochiching County Private Woodland Committee, UMN-Extension and MN DNR. Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA C10.

Financial Aspects of Woodland Ownership
Do you pay taxes on forest land? If so this class is for you. You will learn about property tax laws and federal income tax regulations that affect forest land in Minnesota. You'll learn how to qualify for the Sustainable Forestry Incentive Act and apply for cash payment from the state for managing your forest and land. You'll also learn how to report income and costs on federal income tax returns. Basic recording keeping for typical forest land activities will be covered too.

Thursday, February 7, 6:15-9:00pm**Note new time and location**
Preston: Fillmore County Court House, 101 Fillmore Street W (map)
(We will meet in the boardroom on the lower level)
Cost: $20, pre-registration is requested
Info: Angela Gupta, 507-280-2869, or Mary Jane Stearns, 507-536-6310, or 888-241-4536
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA C10

Intergenerational Land Transfer
You've put your heart and soul into your woodland stewardship. Now you’re thinking about passing the land to your children or grandchildren. But where to begin? Successful land transfers require communication, careful planning, and attention to detail. It's never too early to start. During the two-part workshop you’ll hear from a professional Certified Public Accountant, an attorney, and Extension forestry and family relations specialists. You’ll also bring home two excellent workbooks and a DVD video. Bring other family members for no additional fee. This class will fill. Register soon. Limit 25.

Two-part series: Note new date: Thurs, Feb. 7 and Thurs, Mar. 6, 6:00-9:00pm
St. Paul: TIES Center, 1667 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul, 55108 (map)
Cost: $100 per extended family total for both classes
Info & registration: Eli Sagor, 612-624-6948
This class is supported by the Blandin Foundation's Vital Forests / Vital Communities Initiative and the Minnesota Forest Stewardship Program. Satisfies credit WAC10.

Local Mill Tour - Lester River Sawmill
Come and tour Lester River Sawmill. Learn how locally grow timber is used and which products are produced. This is a valuable opportunity to learn what timber resources the market is demanding, and how private landowners can take advantage of these markets.

Saturday, February 9, 9:00-11:00am
Duluth: Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center (map)
Cost: $10
Info & registration: Email Boulder Lake ELC or call 218-721-3731
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

Two-part series: Tues, Feb. 12 and Thurs, Mar. 6, 6:00-9:00pm
Duluth: Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center (map)
Cost: $100 per extended family total for both classes
Info: Mike Reichenbach, 218-726-6470
Registration: Email Boulder Lake ELC or call 218-721-3731
This class is supported by the Blandin Foundation's Vital Forests / Vital Communities Initiative and the Minnesota Forest Stewardship Program. Satisfies credit WAC10.

Forest History & Ecology
Are you interested in southeast Minnesota’s forest history and ecology? If so this class is for you. We’ll discuss the forces that shaped southeast Minnesota with special emphasis on the Bluff lands. You’ll also learn about the unique ecology in the forests and bluffs in this corner of the state.

Tuesday, February 12, 6:00-8:30pm
Winona: Winona County Extension Office, 202 West 3rd Street (map)
Cost: $20, pre-registration is requested
Info: Angela Gupta, 507-280-2869, or Mary Jane Stearns, 507-536-6310, or 888-241-4536
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA C1

Climate Change: Evidence, Implications, and Potential Consequences in Minnesota **Note New Location**
A seminar by University of Minnesota climatologist Mark Seeley.

Wednesday, Feb. 20, 3:00-4:00pm
Grand Rapids: Davies Theater, Itasca Community College (map)
Cost: Free
Info: Julie Miedtke, 218-327-7365
Sponsored by the Headwaters Chapter of the Society of American Foresters and the University of Minnesota North Central Research and Outreach Center.

Invasive Species Control and Management

Thursday, February 21, 2:00-5:00pm
Saint Cloud: Stearns County Extension Office, Midtown Office Complex, 3400 1st St N, Room #108 (map)
Cost: $20
Info: Diomy Zamora
Registration: Sue Crotty, 888-241-0720
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

Chainsaw Safety
Learn about chainsaw selection, safety and maintenance, protective eyewear, operation and basic forestry practices. Outdoor demonstrations will include modern felling, limbing, and bucking techniques. If you have your own chainsaw, bring it along to get a feel for maintenance. Steve Hagen from STIHL will be presenting.

Saturday, February 23, time is to be announced
Duluth: Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center (map)
Cost: $40
Info & registration: Email Boulder Lake ELC or call 218-721-3731
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

Nuts and Bolts of Timber Sales
Do you have high value timber in your woodland or river bottom? Selling timber can be profitable, but landowners need to know a few basic things about the lumber industry, consultants, contracts and loggers. During this session, you will learn about timber sales contracts, how to choose a logger, and working with a professional forester to maximize profits, protect the environment, maintain site quality, productivity, and enjoyment of your woodland or forest.

Tuesday, February 26, 7:00-9:00pm
New Ulm: Civic Center
Cost: $20
Info: Gary Wyatt
Registration: Kathy Eckwright, 888-241-3214
Woodland Advisor credit: WA C6, plus continuing education credits for Master Gardeners

Energy-Saving Landscapes
Learn how trees and shrubs can be used to help you save energy year round. Strategically placed trees and shrubs in shelterbelts, windbreaks, living snow fences and in the home lawn, can enhance property value, aesthetics, wildlife and can reduce energy costs by 25 to 30%. Participants will also learn about available cost share programs for rural landowners. Livestock producers can also benefit from these plantings around feedlots and confinement buildings. Useful publications will be available.

Thursday, February 28, 2:00-5:00pm
Brainerd: Land Services Building, 322 Laurel Street, Meeting Room 1 (map) (Public parking at Laurel and 4th, across from the courthouse.)
Cost: $20
Info: Diomy Zamora
Registration: Sue Crotty, 888-241-0720
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

Equine Forestry Workshop and Demonstration at Arcola Mills
What's old is new - equine forestry is eco-friendly! Learn more about the latest method of managing your woodlot at Arcola Mills, where draft horses will help remove diseased oak trees, protecting the fragile woodland environment. The trees will be milled on site for future use at Arcola Mills by Cedar River Horse Logging. The Saturday workshop runs all day, and includes indoor presentation, lumberjack lunch, and outdoor demonstration of logging and milling. A family friendly demonstration will be held on Sunday, March 2nd, 1-4pm. Following a 160 year tradition of lumbering at Arcola Mills, visitors will experience a part of history revived for new reasons. Demonstrations of horse logging, video of early logging, refreshments and a collection of antique lumbering and woodworking tools will be on display both days.

Saturday, March 1, 9:00 am - 4:00pm and Sunday, March 2, 1:00-4:00pm
Stillwater: Arcola Mills, 12905 Arcola Trail N. (map)
Cost: Saturday Workshop $40, Sunday Demonstration $5 Adults, $3 Kids
Info: 651-439-1652 www.arcolamills.org
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

Carbon Credits - Benefits for MN Landowners
Farmers, grassland and woodland owners have an opportunity to receive payments for conservation tillage methods, or recent plantings of perennial grass and trees by selling carbon credits through the Chicago Climate Exchange. The carbon credits are purchased by companies to help aid and abate the global climate change through carbon sequestration. Learn more about how to qualify for carbon credit payments and how these plantings sequester carbon.

Wednesday, March 5, 3:00-5:00pm
Andover: Bunker Hills Activity Center (map)
Cost: $20
Info: Gary Wyatt
Registration: Kathy Eckwright, 888-241-3214
Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13, plus continuing education credits for Master Gardeners

Firewood Restrictions: The Burning Issue
A seminar by Valerie Cervenka, MN DNR Forest Entomologist

Thursday, March 6, 3:00-4:00 pm
Grand Rapids: North Central Research and Outreach Center, 1861 E US Hwy 169 (map)
Cost: Free
Info: Julie Miedtke, 218-327-7365
Sponsored by the Headwaters Chapter of the Society of American Foresters and the University of Minnesota North Central Research and Outreach Center.

Forest Insects & Disease
At this session, you'll learn to identify the most important current and future insect and disease threats in Southern Minnesota, including Gypsy moths, Emerald Ash Borer, and others. This session will focus on insects and diseases that pose major threats to your forest. We'll also cover how trees grow, how wounds affect trees, and how to keep your trees and forest healthy.

Tuesday, March 11, 6:00-8:30pm
Preston: Fillmore County Office Building, Room 108
Cost: $20
Info & registration: Angela Gupta or Mary Jane Stearns or 888-241-4536

Growing and Tending Your Forest
Whether your main interest is wildlife, timber, or recreation, careful tending of your forest can probably help get you more of what you want. At this class you'll hear from professional foresters about the many different ways to make the best of your forest better, from careful single-tree selection, timber stand improvement, release cutting to weed management. The more you understand about your forest management options, the better. We will also visit a family owned forest, so dress appropriately.

Thursday, March 13, 2:00-5:00pm
Brainerd: DNR Conference Center, 1601 Minnesota Drive (map)
Cost: $20
Info: Diomy Zamora
Registration: Sue Crotty, 888-241-0720
Satisfies two Woodland Advisor credits: WAC3 & C4

Tuesday, March 18, 7:00-9:00pm
Montevideo: Chippewa County Courthouse, Assembly Room (basement level)
Cost: $20
Info: Gary Wyatt
Registration: Kathy Eckwright, 888-241-3214
Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13, plus continuing education credits for Master Gardeners

Field Demonstration: Crosscut Saw vs. Cut-to-Length Harvester
Enjoy a field demonstration that will include a friendly competition between a historic, low tech, cross cut saw and a sophisticated, ‘high-tech’, cut-to-length harvesting system. A team of horses will skid logs out of the woods while nearby an efficient forwarder system will transport wood products to the road. It will be an interesting contrast in harvesting systems and technology. Just as important are the lessons of stewardship. Learn why the forest is being harvested and plans to improve the resource.

Tuesday, March 18, 1:00-4:00pm
Grand Rapids: Forest History Center
Cost: $5
Info & registration: Julie Miedtke, 218-327-7365.
Sponsored by: DNR, the Forest History Center, Itasca County Private Woodalnd Committee, UPM-Blandin and the Minnesota Forest Stewardship Program

Accessing Airphotos & Custom Maps Online
Many free Internet-based applications are available to download airphotos, generate custom maps of your property, and access other customized geographic information. We’ll walk you through how to use several different resources for your Minnesota wooded property. No prior experience with computers is required. This class will fill, so register ASAP.

Tuesday, March 18, 8:00am-2:30pm
Brainerd: Central Lakes College, Room E419 (map) Use east entrance.
Info & registration: Preregistration required. Contact Eli Sagor, (612) 624-6948
This class satisfies Woodland Advisor credit WAE16, Mapping & Technology

Agroforestry Training for Natural Resources Professionals
Learn to design and apply agroforestry practices and to strengthen partnerships for agroforestry adoption and promotion. Topics will include: wildlife, product marketing, incentive and economic benefit analysis, cost-share programs, bioenergy production, and case study analysis. Details are in this flyer (PDF)

Thursday, March 20, 9:00am-4:00pm
Willmar: Health & Human Services Building, 2200 23rd Street NE (map)
Cost: $20 per person (covers lunch, training materials, and refreshments)
Info: Diomy Zamora, (218) 828-2332
Registration: Register online or call (800)-876-8636

Growing and Tending Hybrid Poplar **CLASS CANCELLED**
Planting hybrid poplar for pulp and paper, bioenergy and environmental protection is becoming popular in Minnesota. This class will cover some of the basics of growing, tending and managing hybrid poplar from site preparation / establishment to maintenance of plantings. This class is designed for landowners and others professionals who wish to learn more about cultural practices of growing hybrid poplar. We'll spend 90 minutes on economics and marketing of hybrid poplars. We'll also discuss landowner assistance and cost share programs including the "Improved Agroforestry Advance Loan Fund with Energy Incentives" loan program, EQIP, Continuous CRP Buffer Strips, WHIP, DNR forestry, etc. This class will also involve a tour to a hybrid poplar plantation. Dress properly.

Thursday, March 27, 2:00-5:00pm
Grand Rapids: North Central Research and Outreach Center, 1861 E US Hwy 169 (map), Room #209
NOTE: Please park by the ball field, immediately to the left as you enter the campus.
Cost: $20
Info: Diomy Zamora
Registration: Sue Crotty, 888-241-0720
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13, plus continuing education credits for Master Gardeners.

Emerald Ash Borer First Detector Training
The University of Minnesota, DNR, and Minnesota Department of Agriculture will be holding EAB First Detector training sessions throughout the state this spring. One-day training sessions will include information on the Federal First Detector Program, the importance of ash in Minnesota, and updates on the spread of emerald ash borer. We will also discover how to distinquish EAB and its signs and symptoms from look-alikes, tips on what homeowners and woodlot owners can do about EAB now, how to handle reports of EAB, and what will happen when EAB is found in Minnesota. The role of EAB First Detectors is to serve as a public contact for EAB information and to help resolve reports of EAB infestations in Minnesota. Training will include presentations as well as hands-on training with materials. More details are in this flyer. (pdf)

Info & Registration: Call the "Arrest the Pest" Hotline 651-201-6684 (Twin Cities Metropolitan Area) or 888-545-6685 (Greater Minnesota)
E-mail Arrest the Pest, find more information here or download the application. (pdf)
Applications must be post-marked or e-mailed by March 19.
Cost: $10 Lunch provided
All classes: 8:45 am - 3:30pm followed by Tree Inspector Exam (about an hour)

Thursday, March 27
Rochester: Extension Regional Office, 1926 College View Road SE (map)

Monday, March 31
Cloquet: Cloquet Forestry Center (map)

Thursday, April 3
Mankato: South Central College (map)

Monday, April 7
Andover: Extension Regional Office, 550 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW, Suite L-1 (map)

Tuesday, April 8
Marshall: Lyon County Government Center, 607 West Main (map)

Thursday, April 10
Fergus Falls: Extension Regional Office, 223 W Cavour Avenue (map)

Swamp Cedar
Northern White Cedar is an ancient tree, called "geezhig" by Ojibwa because of it’s usefulness to their society, it’s Latin name "arborvitae" meaning the tree of life indicates its significance. Northern White Cedar grows in critical parts of forest ecosystems: swamps, fens, calcium-rich uplands, lining lakeshores and rivers. Northern White Cedar has distinctive qualities from its’ fragrant foliage, rot resistant wood, fibrous bark and spreading root system. This session will explore the unique properties of Northern White Cedar, its management and usefulness. This session will offer classroom discussion and an opportunity to work with cedar bark and splints.

Saturday, March 29, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Grand Rapids: Trailhead Building at the Itasca County Fairgrounds
Cost: $20 (bring your own hand tools and scissors)
Instructors: John Zasada-Meristems Forestry and Julie Miedtke-Extension-Itasca County
Info & registration: Julie Miedtke, (218) 327-7365

Tapping into Maple Resources
Learn how to manage a maple woods and properly select trees for tapping. We will compare a home operation to a commercial sugaring operation. A unique opportunity to interact with Dave Rogotske, a local resident who makes his living off the land as Minnesota’s second largest maple syrup producer and an Alaskan salmon fisherman!

Saturday, March 29, 10:00am-1:00pm
Duluth: Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center (map)
Cost: $25
Info & registration: Email Boulder Lake ELC or call 218-721-3731
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA C5

Intergenerational Land Transfer**CLASS CANCELLED**
You've put your heart and soul into your woodland stewardship. Now you’re thinking about passing the land to your children or grandchildren. But where to begin? Successful land transfers require communication, careful planning, and attention to detail. It's never too early to start. During the two-part workshop you’ll hear from a professional Certified Public Accountant, an attorney, and Extension forestry and family relations specialists. You’ll also bring home two excellent workbooks and a DVD video. Bring other family members for no additional fee. This class will fill. Register soon. Limit 25.

Two-part series: Tuesday, Apr. 1 and Tues, May 13, 6:00-9:00pm
Rochester: Heintz Center (map)
Cost: $100 per extended family total for both classes
Info & registration: Angela Gupta, 888-241-4536
This class is supported by the Blandin Foundation's Vital Forests / Vital Communities Initiative and the Minnesota Forest Stewardship Program. Satisfies credit WAC10.

Accessing Airphotos & Custom Maps Online **CLASS IS FULL**
Many free Internet-based applications are available to download airphotos, generate custom maps of your property, and access other customized geographic information. We’ll walk you through how to use several different resources for your Minnesota wooded property. No prior experience with computers is required. This class will fill, so register ASAP.

Saturday, April 5 , 8:00am-2:30pm
Grand Rapids: Itasca Community College, Davies Hall Room 233 (map)
Use the west parking lot.
Info & registration: Pre-registration required. Contact Julie Miedtke, (218) 327-7365.
This class satisfies Woodland Advisor credit WAE16, Mapping & Technology

Wildlife Habitat Workshop for Landowners in East Central MN
Landowners with forest, brushland, grassland, wetland or lakeshore have an opportunity to provide habitat for a variety of animals and plants. Creating and maintaining healthy habitats with the food, cover, water, and space that wildlife need is a key component of good wildlife management. Come and learn more about sharp-tailed grouse, deer, turkeys, pheasants, prescribed burning, non-game wildlife, financial assistance programs, invasive species control, food plots, forest stewardship, and wetland and shoreline restoration. More details are in this flyer. (pdf)

Saturday, April 5 , 10:00am-3:30pm (Coffee at 9:30)
Mora: Trailview School, 200 E. 9th St. (map)
Cost: Free- includes registration, refreshments and lunch
Info: Tim Pharis, (763) 689-7110
Registration: Tami Brue (763) 689-7104
**Pre-registration required by March 28**
Sponsored by the Minnesota DNR, East Central Landscape Committee, and Onanegozie RC&D with support from the MN Deer Hunters Association, MN Forestry Association, MN Forest Resources Council, MN Sharp-tailed Grouse Society, National Wild Turkey Federation, and Pheasants Forever.

Invasive Species
Invasive woody plants such as buckthorn, prickly ash, and other species, are creating serious problems for our native woodlands. Other invasive vegetative plants (garlic mustard) and insects (emerald ash borer) that are a threat to our Minnesota landscapes will also be discussed. Learn how to correctly identify, control and manage these pests to promote healthy woodlands and landscapes.

Tuesday, April 8, 7:00-9:00pm
Marshall: Lyon County Government Center, 3rd floor meeting room
Cost: $20
Info: Gary Wyatt
Registration: Kathy Eckwright, 888-241-3214
Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13, plus continuing education credits for Master Gardeners

Forest Invasion: Buckthorn, EAB, and other Invaders
Are you worried about invasive species like buckthorn, emerald ash borer, garlic mustard, and gypsy moth on your property? If so, this class is for you. Participants will learn how to identify invasive species of concern in southeast Minnesota. During this class we will also compare management strategies for dealing with these invaders. The class will begin with an outdoor field tour at Camp Winnebago so please dress for the weather. The class will likely end indoors.

Tuesday, April 15, 6:00-8:30pm
Caledonia: Camp Winnebago, 19708 Camp Winnebago Road
Cost: $20
Info & registration: Jean Meiners, 507-725-5807

Measuring and Reading Your Forest
Many forest landowners don’t have a very good idea of what they own. Do you want to learn how to estimate how much wood is in a tree? Or how much wood is in your woodlot? This course will introduce you to the basics of forest measurement. It will help you better understand what a bid from a logger or a volume estimate from a forester means.

Wednesday, April 16, 6:00-9:00pm
Duluth: Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center (map)
Cost: $20
Info & registration: Email Boulder Lake ELC, or call 218-721-3731
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA C9

Two-part series: Thursday, Apr. 17 and Tuesday, May 13, 6:00-9:00pm
St. Paul: TIES Center, 1667 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul, 55108 (map)
Cost: $100 per extended family total for both classes
Info & registration: Eli Sagor, 612-624-6948
This class is supported by the Blandin Foundation's Vital Forests / Vital Communities Initiative and the Minnesota Forest Stewardship Program. Satisfies credit WAC10

Tour the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center **CANCELLED**
The Minnesota Interagency Fire Center (MIFC) was established to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of wildfire management. It is the hub of the Midwest for wildfire intelligence, suppression, resources and air support. Instructors: Don Piilola and Ron Stoffel, DNR-Forestry.

Friday, April 18, 6:30-8:00 pm
Grand Rapids: 402 SE Eleventh Street (map)
Cost: $10
Info & registration: Julie Miedtke, 218-327-7365

Non-Timber Forest Products: Shitake, Portable Mill, & Ginseng
Are you interested in learning what products other than timber can be harvested and sold from your forest? If so you might enjoy this opportunity to learn from another private forest landowner actively engaged in the production of non-timber forest products. We will visit the property of Kay and Pete Jilk of St. Charles to learn about Pete's work with shitake mushrooms and ginseng. We will also consider his portable sawmill.

Friday, April 18, 2:00-4:30pm
St. Charles: 22430 Ben Iron Road
Cost: $20
Info & registration: Pre-registration required. Angela Gupta, 507-280-2869, or Mary Jane Stearns, 507-536-6310, or 888-241-4536.

How to Use a GPS Receiver
This GPS workshop is for those who are interested in advancing their skills in the use of GPS units. Participants who have not and have taken the Basic GPS class are encouraged to attend, as this class will integrate the content of the Basic GPS and Intermediate GPS curricula using Garmin Map76 CSX units. This class will provide overview of the basic concepts of GPS including becoming familiar with the GPS screens, marking waypoints, saving tracks as well as advanced use of GPS such as creating and navigating routes and changing coordinate systems and map datums. Garmin GPS Map76 CSX units will be provided for use during the workshop. This is a hands-on classroom and field workshop so dress for the weather.

Monday, April 21, 9:00am-4:00pm
Brainerd: Land Services Building, 322 Laurel St., Meeting Room 1 (map)
Cost: $45
Info: Diomy Zamora (218) 828-2332
Registration: Sue Crotty, 888-241-0720 ext. 2275
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

Cultural History of the North Shore
Local archaeologists Steve & Sue Mulholland will lead an exploration of the past inhabitants of northern Minnesota including artifacts and activities such as spear throwing with an adl adl. Find more information here. **Pre-Registration is Required**

Tuesday, April 22, 6:00pm-9:00pm
Duluth : Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center, 7328 Boulder Dam Road (map)
Cost: $5
Info and Registration: Please call: (218) 721-3731 or email: boulder@d.umn.edu

Intro and Intermediate Global Positioning Systems - GPS
Have you ever tried to return to a favorite deer stand or fishing hole, only to be unable to find it? Global Positioning Systems, or GPS, can help you to navigate with confidence. If you have a new GPS unit or are thinking of buying one, this class may be for you. We'll start with an introduction to the Garmin Mapc76sx. You will learn how to set waypoints, find waypoints, create a track, and determine area. GPS units provided for use during the class. Dress for the weather, parts of this session will be outside. Find more information at the Audubon Center website.

Thursday, April 24, 8:00am-4:00pm
Sandstone: Audubon Center of the North Woods (map)
Cost: $45
Info and Registration: Mike Reichenbach or Denise Volk, 888-241-0724

Carbon Credits - Benefits for MN Landowners
Farmers, grassland and woodland owners have an opportunity to receive payments for conservation tillage methods, or recent plantings of perennial grass and trees by selling carbon credits through the Chicago Climate Exchange. The carbon credits are purchased by companies to help aid and abate the global climate change through carbon sequestration. Learn more about how to qualify for carbon credit payments and how these plantings sequester carbon!

Thursday, April 24 , 2:00-4:00pm **Note new date**
Grand Rapids: North Central Research and Outreach Center, 1861 E US Hwy 169 (map), Room #209
NOTE: Please park by the ball field, immediately to the left as you enter the campus.
Cost: $20
Info: Diomy Zamora
Registration: Sue Crotty, 888-241-0720
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

Tree Planting
A field experience to learn tips and techniques of tree planting. Information on cost-share programs will be shared. Dress appropriately. Guest Instructors: Andy Arens-Itasca SWCD and Mike Oja-NRCS

Friday, April 25, 9:00 am-noon
Grand Rapids: Meet at Itasca SWCD (map), then travel to field sites
Cost: $10
Info & registration: Julie Miedtke, 218-327-7365

Monday, April 28, 6:00 - 9:00pm
Duluth: Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center, 7328 Boulder Dam Road (map)
Cost: $40
Info & registration: Please call (218) 721-3731 or email boulder@d.umn.edu

Timber Stand Improvement
Timber Stand Improvement includes a variety of strategies to make the best of your woodland better. Despite the name, TSI can be used to improve wildlife habitat, grow big trees faster, or many things other than improving timber quality. This workshop, offered in partnership with the Minnesota Logger Education Program, will cover four different approaches to TSI in Minnesota. The workshop includes classroom presentations, field site visits, two hands-on field exercises where small groups design their own TSI prescriptions, and a classroom exercise on economic and operational considerations.

Tuesday, May 6, 8:00am-4:00pm
Cloquet: Cloquet Forestry Center, 175 University Road (map)
Cost: $25, lunch included
Info & Registration: Eli Sagor (612) 624-6948 or Chris DeRosier (218) 722-5442
Satisfies two Woodland Advisor credits: WAC3, Silviculture Approaches and Theory and WAC4, Silviculture Field Applications.
SAF and MN Forest Stewardship CEUs will also be available.

Planting Trees and Releasing Seedlings in your Woods
There are few activities more rewarding than standing under a towering tree that you planted years ago. There’s no better time to start the process than now! Learn the basics of successful tree planting and maintenance. Many of the most important steps occur after the trees are in the ground. Options for animal and weed control will also be presented. Participants in this class can register for a drawing of up to 50 free spruce and pine seedlings. The Flute Reed Partnership has 500 trees to give away.

Thursday, May 8, 6:00-9:00pm
Hovland: Hovland Town Hall
Cost: Free – supported by NE Minnesota Sustainable Development Partnership, and the Minnesota Forest Stewardship Committee
Pre-registration is requested
Info & registration: Mike Reichenbach, or Denise Volk, 888-241-0724
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA C3

Measuring and Reading Your Forest
At this session, you'll learn to see your forest through the eyes of a professional forester. You'll learn about some of the tools and techniques that foresters use to evaluate a forest stand, individual trees, and cut products. We'll also decode some forester-speak to help you understand the basics of wood volume, quality, and value. Dress for the weather, this session will be outside.

Tuesday, May 13, 6:00-8:30pm
Winona: Private property, call for directions
Cost: $20
Info & registration: Angela Gupta, 507-280-2869, or Mary Jane Stearns, 507-536-6310, or 888-241-4536

Intergenerational Land Transfer
You've put your heart and soul into your woodland stewardship. Now you’re thinking about passing the land to your children or grandchildren. But where to begin? Successful land transfers require communication, careful planning, and attention to detail. It's never too early to start. During the two-part workshop you’ll hear from a professional Certified Public Accountant, an attorney, and Extension forestry and family relations specialists. You’ll also bring home two excellent workbooks and a DVD video. Bring other family members for no additional fee. This class will fill. Register soon. Limit 25.

Tuesday, May 13, 6:00-9:00pm (Class 2 of Two-part series)
St. Paul: TIES Center, 1667 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul, 55108 (map)
Cost: $100 per extended family total for both classes
Info & registration: Eli Sagor, 612-624-6948
This class is supported by the Blandin Foundation's Vital Forests / Vital Communities Initiative and the Minnesota Forest Stewardship Program. Satisfies credit WAC10

NE Community Forest Workshop
The NE Community Forest Workshop is a one day event filled with the topics of tree varieties that survive in NE Minnesota, exotic insects that are threatening NE woods, pests of community trees that are thriving after drought conditions, and diagnosing tree problems underground. Diagnosing Tree Problems Underground will occur at the UMD campus. Attendees will have the opportunity to use a supersonic soil removal system to investigate root problems. Also, soil analyses will be discussed and a soil percolation test will be conducted. More details can be seen in this flyer.(pdf)

Wednesday, May 14, 8:00 am-4:00pm
Cloquet: Cloquet Forestry Center
Cost: $75
Instructors: Mike Albers, Jana Albers, Ken Banaszewski, Gary Johnson and Dave Hanson
Info & registration: Rebecca Koetter, (612) 624-4261

New Tree Inspector Certification Workshop
Certified Tree Inspectors are trained to identify common landscape trees, firewood and manage Dutch elm disease and oak wilt. This one day workshop will teach you what you need to know to actively participate in disease tree programs and communicate management efforts with members of the community. After the workshop you will be able to take an exam and if passed, will certify you through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. More details are in this flyer.(pdf)

Wednesday, May 14, 8:00 am-3:00pm
Cloquet: Cloquet Forestry Center
Cost: $85 and includes box lunch
Instructors: Don Mueller, Gary Johnson, Dave Hanson, and Rebecca Koetter
Info & registration: Rebecca Koetter, (612) 624-4261

Forest Wildlife and Biodiversity
Would you like to make your property attractive to wildlife and maintain a healthy forest? At this Forest Wildlife and Biodiversity class, you will learn from local wildlife professionals about forest habitat management. Topics of discussion will include the importance of long term habitat planning, landscape considerations, and maintaining a diversity of native plants, as well as management techniques, and available cost share and incentive programs.

Thursday, May 15, 6:00-8:00pm
Baxter: Northland Arboretum, 14250 Conservation Drive (map)
Cost: $20 (Checks payable to University of Minnesota)
Info: Diomy Zamora
Registration: Sue Crotty, 888-241-0720 ext. 2275
Satisfies one Woodland Advisor credit: WA E13

Minnesota Forestry Association Spring Field Days
The Minnesota Forestry Association would like to invite you to this year's Spring Field Days. We will meet at Cabela's on Friday and board buses to get out to the field through Sauber Woods, as well as Ron Maas Woods for presentations on MN Land Trust Easements, forest and prairie restoration, hardwoods management, and tips on pruning and thinning. Friday evening includes MFA's annual meeting, banquet, silent auction, and program with Emily Hutchins, DNR Private Lands Wildlife Manager. Saturday's events start out early with a Wildflower Nature Hike at Kaplan Woods, and continue through the morning with discussions and various presenters on intergenerational land transfer planning. There will be a panel discussion and Q & A forum followed by lunch. We hope to see you there! More details are in this flyer. (pdf)

Friday, May 16, 12:00pm-6:00pm and Saturday, May 17, 6:30am-1:00pm
Owatonna: Cabela's
Cost: Varies per segment.
Info: Terry Helbig (651) 345-3216 ext. 238 or Carol Cartie (218) 326-6486
Registration: Please use MFA's Registration Form

Silviculture: Growing and Tending Your Forest
These back-to-back workshops will provide a working knowledge of silviculture practices by forest cover type. Each day will begin with a short indoor presentation and discussion. The remainder of the day will be spent on site visits and hands-on field exercises. Topics include evaluating forest regeneration in a stand and the assessment and marking of a stand. You can register for one or both days. This workshop is offered in partnership with the Minnesota Logger Education Program. Everyone is welcome.

Even-aged management: Wed, May 28, 8:00am to 4:00pm
Uneven-aged management: Thurs, May 29, 8:00am to 4:00pm
Cloquet: Cloquet Forestry Center, 175 University Road (map)
Cost: $25 per day, lunch included
Info & registration: Eli Sagor (612) 624-6948 or Chris DeRosier (218) 722-5442
Satisfies two Woodland Advisor credits: WAC3, Silviculture Approaches and Theory and WAC4, Silviculture Field Applications. SAF and MN Forest Stewardship CEUs available.

Timber Stand Improvement
Timber Stand Improvement includes a variety of strategies to make the best of your woodland better. Despite the name, TSI can be used to improve wildlife habitat, grow big trees faster, or many things other than improving timber quality. This workshop, offered in partnership with the Minnesota Logger Education Program, will cover four different approaches to TSI in Minnesota. The workshop includes classroom presentations, field site visits, two hands-on field exercises where small groups design their own TSI prescriptions, and a classroom exercise on economic and operational considerations.

Tuesday, June 3, 8:00am-4:00pm
Grand Rapids Area
Cost: $25, lunch included
Info & registration: Eli Sagor (612) 624-6948 or Chris DeRosier (218) 722-5442
Satisfies two Woodland Advisor credits: WAC3, Silviculture Approaches and Theory and WAC4, Silviculture Field Applications.
SAF and MN Forest Stewardship CEUs will also be available.

Tree and Shrub Identification **Rescheduled from May 6**
Do you know what trees and shrubs are growing in your woodland or home landscape? Are they native, marketable or invasive? Being able to have a general understanding of tree and shrub identification is important to better manage these plant species on your property. Differences in tree species, preferred soils, habitat types and growing conditions will be discussed. We will review trees and shrubs in the area plus a number of species that we should be planting to help diversify plants in our home landscapes. The class will begin in the school but we will also be walking through the school’s environmental learning area for a hands-on tree and shrub identification tour, so come dressed for the weather and walking. ** Pre-Registration is Required **

Tuesday, June 3, 6:00-9:00pm
Redwood Falls: Redwood Area School District, High School, 100 George Ramseth Drive (map)
Cost: $20
Info: Gary Wyatt
Registration: Kathy Eckwright, (507) 389-6972 or (888)-241-3214 or register online.
Woodland Advisor credit: WA C8n, plus continuing education credits for Master Gardeners

Agroforestry Training for Natural Resources Professionals
Learn to design and apply agroforestry practices and to strengthen partnerships for agroforestry adoption and promotion. Topics will include: wildlife, product marketing, incentive and economic benefit analysis, cost-share programs, bioenergy production, and case study analysis. Details are in this flyer (PDF)

Thursday, June 5, 9:00am-4:00pm
Lanesboro: Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, 28097 Goodview Drive (map) (includes a field tour)
Cost: $20 per person (covers lunch, training materials, and refreshments)
Info: Diomy Zamora, (888) 241-0720
Registration: Register online, or call (800) 876-8636

Click for More registration and class information

Click to Register for classes

New classes are frequently added to the schedule. Check back here often...

2008 Class Calendar

The University of Minnesota Extension Service is an equal opportunity educator and employer.