The NACD Forestry Resource Policy Group's (RPG) summer meeting in New Hampshire was canceled due to COVID-19 (coronavirus). To replace it, the Forestry RPG has organized a two-day virtual meeting to explore relevant forestry topics and conduct annual RPG business.
A series of seven Zoom discussions will be held on Aug. 11. Each 50-minute session will feature a panel of presenters and a Q&A session with participants. Sessions are open to all conservation districts and forestry partners interested in attending. To reserve a spot in one of the sessions listed below, contact NACD Forestry Specialist
Mike Beacom
at
[email protected]
.
Topics for Aug. 11:
How conservation districts can support female forest landowners
Data suggests women are a growing demographic among forest landowners. Groups like Women Owning Woodlands (WOW) aim to support female forest landowners. This session will examine ways conservation districts may help.
Is biochar a growth area for conservation districts?
A number of conservation districts have been involved in the production and use of biochar, which is believed to enhance soil health. This session will provide insight on the product and its uses and how conservation districts may become involved.
Nailing down the right approach
How conservation districts connect with landowners and communicate with community leaders is critical in their ability to have an impact on the land. This session will explore what has worked (and not worked) and how to better prepare conservation district professionals on beginning those conversations.
A closer look at American Tree Farm System (ATFS) standards
The American Forest Foundation proposed updates to ATFS
standards last year. This session will explore how those changes, if adopted, may affect small woodland owners, particularly in the northeast region.
Supporting the NWTF National Forestry Initiative
In a number of states already, National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) foresters are part of multi-partner efforts that include conservation districts. In recent years, with funding from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the number of NWTF foresters has grown, and with it, a need for support and collaboration.
Making the case for strong forest economies
A healthy wood products market helps allow for healthy forests. Conservation districts and state associations are well positioned to educate legislators and community leaders on how the two are linked.
Conservation districts provide a boost to pre-fire efforts
This session will demonstrate how conservation districts are helping communities reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire through planning, partnering and implementation.