Management seminar to educate landowners about forest health April 21 in Longview

• Writer: Adam Russell, 903-834-6191, adam.russell@ag.tamu.edu
• Contact: Dr. Eric Taylor, 903-834-6191, etaylor@tfs.tamu.edu

LONGVIEW – The Northeast Texas Forest Management Seminar, which will focus on educating landowners about forest health, will be held April 21 at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office for Gregg County, Suite 101, 405 E. Marshall Ave. in Longview.

The program begins with registration at 9 a.m. and ends at 2:45 p.m. Cost is $35, which includes meals and materials. Organizers ask that attendees RSVP at 903-236-8429 by April 18.

The event is co-sponsored by AgriLife Extension and the Texas A&M Forest Service.

Speakers and topics include:

– Dr. Eric Taylor, Texas A&M Forest Service silviculturist, Overton – Forest Myths and Misconceptions and Their Impact on Management.

– Justin Penick, Acorn Forestry president, Lufkin – Guide to Forestry Services: Mechanical, Chemical, Fire, Timber Sales, Operations and Contracts.

– Kristy Marjason, Legacy Ag Credit vice president, Longview – Farm Finance.

– Allen Smith, Texas A&M Forest Service regional forest health coordinator, Longview – Common Forest Health Problems and Solutions.

– Jeremy Poirier, International Paper fiber certification manager, Shreveport, Louisiana – Your Woods Are An Important Resource, Manage Them Well.

Taylor said there are misconceptions within the public regarding what is perceived to be a healthy stand of trees and a resilient forest ecosystem. For example, overly dense forests, buildup of fuels from undergrowth that have gone unchecked, invasive plants and the exclusion of frequent, low- intensity fires create an environment at high risk of loss to insects, diseases and wildfire.

“We hope to foster a clearer picture in landowner’s mind about what a healthy, resilient forest looks like,” he said. “Proper forest management can reduce the risk of loss from wildfire, pests and extreme weather events and promote a healthier, sustainable forest ecosystem, which includes not only the trees but the wildlife and numerous ecosystem services like water purification and biodiversity.”

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