October 2025

New Resources

What Are Mycorrhizal Fungi and What Role Do They Have in the Forest?

Fungi are a fundamental part of forest ecosystems. They break down dead plant material, releasing nutrients for other organisms to use, and they help plants access water and nutrients needed for growth. One particularly fascinating group, mycorrhizal fungi, has drawn considerable attention in recent years, as some scientists have suggested they play a role in forming underground networks that connect trees. But what exactly are mycorrhizal fungi? What role do they play in forests? And how much do we really know about them?

Adapting Forests to Climate Change: Insights from Dr. Alexandra Kosiba on Resilience and Management Strategies

This podcast interview highlights the significance of forest monitoring through techniques like aerial surveys, how historical land use patterns have contributed to current vulnerabilities, the role of active forest management strategies in promoting species diversity and complexity.

Listen to the Podcast

What's Up with the Fall Foliage this Year?

Why do leaves change color in fall? Across the Fence joins Ali Kosiba for a forest walk to learn about fall foliage. Then Ben Willis follows Ali to the Northeast Kingdom to check in on forest health and management practices with student forestry researchers.

We're hiring a Forestry Outreach Coordinator!

The UVM Extension Forestry Outreach Coordinator position will provide outreach, program and partner coordination, and technical assistance related to the ecological functions of forests, climate change impacts, carbon benefits, biodiversity, and sustainable management.

For further information or to apply with electronic application, resume, and cover letter, visit: www.uvmjobs.com and search for Posting # S5773PO. Applications will begin to be reviewed after November 1, 2025.

Apply Now

Upcoming Events

UNDERSTANDING FOREST CARBON AND CLIMATE ADAPTATION

Tuesday, October 28, 6:30 pm

Bradford Fire Station, Bradford, VT

Hosted by the Bradford Conservation Commission

Join Dr. Ali Kosiba to learn about the forest carbon cycle, Northeastern forests’ role in mitigating climate change, and how decision makers can help maintain climate-resilient forests. Free copies of "A Guide to Forest Carbon in the Northeast" will be available to all. No pre-registration required. For more information, visit the Bradford Conservation Commission's Facebook page.

SUGARBUSH RESILIENCE WOODS TOUR

Saturday, November 8th, 10 am - 1 pm

Richford, VT

Hosted by the Franklin County Natural Resources Conservation District

Join Dr. Ali Kosiba for a morning sugarbush tour where we'll talk about maple ecology and management strategies to enhance resilience in the face of extreme weather events, pests, and other stressors. More details coming soon on the Franklin County NRCD webpage.

We have a growing number of resources available for landowners, foresters, conservation groups and other folks interested in learning about forests and how to steward them. Visit our website to check them out.

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