Shows
Thomasville TimesUSDA invests $200M to expand timber productionU.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced a bold $ 200 million investment to implement the U. S. Department of Agriculture ( USDA) Forest Service’s National Active Forest Management Strategy, a key initiative to increase timber harvest, improve forest health and productivity, reduce wildfire risk, and support rural prosperity in forest communities. The strategy supports President Trump’s Executive Order: Immediate Expansion of Timber Production by streamlining burdensome regulations, leveraging emergency authorities, and expediting project approvals— ensuring faster access to critical timber resources. Increasing the use of long-term contracts to carry out these projects, the strategy envisions a more...2025-06-0502 min
101 - The Secretary of Agriculture"Secretary Rollins Spearheads Forest Management Reforms and Sparks Controversy over Food Assistance Cuts"In her first months as Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins has made headlines with a series of impactful decisions and reforms. Appointed in February 2025, Rollins has received broad support from agricultural groups across the country, with organizations like the National Corn Growers Association and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association praising her expertise and commitment to the farming community. Her appointment was anticipated to foster advancements in trade agreements, biofuel expansion, and the development of a new farm bill to bolster U.S. agriculture.Recently, Rollins has prioritized major reform efforts focused on forest management and timber production. On...2025-04-0803 min
Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture, & AgencyCommunity Forest Program: A Guide to Funding and ImplementationTopic: the USDA Forest Service's Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program.
The program offers grants to acquire private forestland threatened by conversion, prioritizing projects delivering significant community benefits (economic, environmental, educational, recreational).
Applications, due January 13, 2025, require a 50% non-federal cost share and must demonstrate community engagement and address threats of land conversion.
A national review panel will score applications based on community benefits, engagement, strategic contribution, and threat level.
Resources and guidance are available online. https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/private-land/community-forest
#usda #forestry #conservation...2025-01-0711 min
Forest FocusEpisode 53: OHV Recreation on the Stanislaus National ForestPut your seatbelt on and hold on tight. In this episode, we ride along with the Joaquin Jeepers, a 4x4 club based out of Stockton, California, and an official partner with the Stanislaus National Forest, on their adopted trail, Slick Rock. The club shares their outdoor ethics, how they care for their trail, their relationship with the Forest Service and their passion in keeping OHV trails open to offroad enthusists. This episode is also available as a videocast, which can be watched here: https://usda-fs.wistia.com/medias/j3o1eke8ux2024-12-2156 min
ForestcastAfire: The 13th Fire & Mr. Mann Gulch (Mann Gulch 75) On a scorching August afternoon in 1949, a small fire in Montana's Mann Gulch turned catastrophic in just minutes. Through storyteller David Turner, experience this haunting tale that transformed wildland firefighting forever, and discover how this fire claimed the lives of 13 smokejumpers and sparked a revolution in fire safety and science. Join Forestcast as we travel to Helena, Montana to commemorate this monumental moment in Forest Service history, and find out how science is part of this story. Related Research: The Thirteenth Fire The Legacy of the Mann Gulch Fire of 1949 The 75th Anniversary of the Mann...2024-12-1144 min
ForestcastAfire: A Chief's Perspective on Fire How does research shape a Chief’s decisions about fire? Through personal stories and reflections, Chief Randy Moore shares how scientific discoveries have transformed our agency’s understanding of fire, and explains how research informs decision-making at the highest levels, the role of partnerships in advancing fire science, and the future of fire management across our landscapes. Related Research: Confronting the Wildfire Crisis Fire and Smoke Model Evaluation Experiment Forestcast is an official USDA Forest Service podcast, and is produced by USDA Forest Service Research and Development. Want more information? Visit us at https...2024-12-0415 min
Forest FocusEpisode 52: For the Frogs - ReintroductionThis is the fifth and final installment of a miniseries about amphibian conservation and determination called For the Frogs. In each episode, we will meet to one native amphibian that can be found in California's national forests. These creatures are important to ecological health and can deepen our connections with public lands, but they are also in a state of decline. Fortunately, a village of specialists are devoted to conserving these species. The stories of their resolute conservation efforts, pursued through obstacles and setbacks, provides portraits of determination that we can pocket and apply to our own personal experiences w...2024-11-2825 min
Professional Development for Women and Minorities2024 WOC (1795) Climbing the STEM Ladder of Success – Planning Your Next Steps Presented by the U.S. Forest ServiceLearning Objectives: Enhance your understanding of different career choices and paths that can help inform your next career steps through an exciting dialogue with outstanding leaders and scientists from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service.
Thinking about your personal and professional goals are critical steps in planning your STEM career in these rapidly changing times. Barriers are being broken and the future looks bright with opportunities for STEM careers. Given this rapid period of change, what should you be thinking about as you plan your career? Join U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest S...2024-10-091h 08
Forest FocusEpisode 51: For the Frogs - InvestigationThis is the fourth installment of a miniseries about amphibian conservation and determination called For the Frogs. In each episode, we will meet to one native amphibian that can be found in California's national forests. These creatures are important to ecological health and can deepen our connections with public lands, but they are also in a state of decline. Fortunately, a village of specialists are devoted to conserving these species. The stories of their resolute conservation efforts, pursued through obstacles and setbacks, provides portraits of determination that we can pocket and apply to our own personal experiences with adversity. T...2024-10-0617 min
Come Rain or ShineReforestation: The John T. Harrington Forestry Research CenterThis bonus episode is a re-release of our July 2023 episode highlighting the John T. Harrington Forestry Research Center in Mora, New Mexico, which aims to advance the understanding of restoration activities on forested areas in New Mexico. The Center also provides science-based solutions for private, tribal, state, and federal forest managers, who face the threat of catastrophic fires and the inability of forest ecosystems to naturally regenerate after fires. Related Links:John T. Harrington Forestry Research Center at MoraIf you’re...2024-09-2543 min
Forest FocusEpisode 50: Wood Innovations and Biomass UtilizationIn our 50th episode we turn back towards Nature's Benefits and cut further into Timber and Wood Products by discussing Wood Innovations and Biomass Utilization with a program specialist from the Pacific Southwest Regional Office. We talk grants, mass timber, forward-thinking projects, tribal initiatives, urban forestry and more with guests from the Angeles National Forest and a sawmill owner in Los Angeles. Pacific Southwest Region’s Wood and Biomass Utilization Program National USDA Forest Service Wood Innovations For tons more information (Forest Focus Ep. 50 Homepage)2024-09-131h 31
Forest FocusEpisode 49: Wilderness WalkingWe’re taking a wilderness walk in recognition of this anniversary year of the 1964 Wilderness Act, which created the National Wilderness Preservation System. But long before the Wilderness Act, and long before we were even using the word “wilderness”, these lands were used and stewarded by Indigenous communities. So, designated wilderness areas are both Tribal homelands and places for recreation. Taking a walk in these lands is an opportunity to think about wilderness means to us, which can help us connect to nature and each other. Show Notes Available HERE. Transcript Available HERE.2024-09-0706 minCome Rain or ShineReforestation: It All Starts With A SeedDr. Joshua Sloan and Rachael Foe discuss the process of conifer seed selection and harvest for reforestation efforts in the Southwest, from selecting the parent trees and scouting for good cone crops to climbing the trees and collecting cones. Did you know some forest stands only produce a viable seed crop once every decade? Learn how you could help scout for cones through a new app from the New Mexico Reforestation Center.Relevant links:Related podcast episode: After-Fire Reforestation: The John T...2024-09-0453 min
Forest FocusEpisode 48: For the Frogs - ConstructionThis is the third installment of a miniseries about amphibian conservation and determination called For the Frogs. In each episode, we will meet to one native amphibian that can be found in California's national forests. These creatures are important to ecological health and can deepen our connections with public lands, but they are also in a state of decline. Fortunately, a village of specialists are devoted to conserving these species. The stories of their resolute conservation efforts, pursued through obstacles and setbacks, provides portraits of determination that we can pocket and apply to our own personal experiences with adversity. T...2024-08-0919 min
What’s Up, Interpreters? A Podcast from the National Association for InterpretationToby Bloom, National Program Manager for Travel, Tourism, and Interpretation, USDA Forest ServiceThis week's podcast features Toby Bloom, the National Program Manager for Travel, Tourism, and Interpretation at the USDA Forest Service. Toby shares her journey into this role, the significance of interpretation within a federal agency, and her collaborative efforts with international sites. NAI’s Paul Caputo and Song Stott join the conversation.
2024-08-0823 minWhat’s Up, Interpreters? A Podcast from the National Association for InterpretationToby Bloom, National Program Manager for Travel, Tourism, and Interpretation, USDA Forest ServiceThis week's podcast features Toby Bloom, the National Program Manager for Travel, Tourism, and Interpretation at the USDA Forest Service. Toby shares her journey into this role, the significance of interpretation within a federal agency, and her collaborative efforts with international sites. NAI’s Paul Caputo and Song Stott join the conversation.
2024-08-0823 min
Forest FocusEpisode 47: For the Frogs - RestorationThis is the second installment of a miniseries about amphibian conservation and determination called For the Frogs. In each episode, we will meet to one native amphibian that can be found in California's national forests. These creatures are important to ecological health and can deepen our connections with public lands, but they are also in a state of decline. Fortunately, a village of specialists are devoted to conserving these species. The stories of their resolute conservation efforts, pursued through obstacles and setbacks, provides portraits of determination that we can pocket and apply to our own personal experiences with adversity...2024-07-0524 min
Forest FocusEpisode 46: For the Frogs - TranslocationThis is the first installment of a miniseries about amphibian conservation and determination. We're calling the miniseries For the Frogs. In each episode, we will meet to one native amphibian that can be found in California's national forests. These creatures are important to ecological health, and once we get to know them, they can deepen our connections with public lands. But each of these species is in a state of decline due to overlapping threats, including pathogens, introduced predators, habitat loss, drought and wildfire. Fortunately, there is a village of specialists devoted to conserving these species despite the colossal c...2024-06-0114 min
Forest FocusEpisode 45: Snow Groomer: A Recreation Technician's ArtistryIn this episode, we learn how to snow groom trails. Uh, wait, scratch that, we try to learn. We travel to the Shasta-Trinity National Forest in March to meet up with Jeremiah Tabor, a Recreation Technician, and speak to him about his job, seasonal tasks, and how do you get that corduroy look in groomed trails. 2024-05-3131 min
ForestcastAfire: Understanding Different FirePrescribed fire plays a vital role in creating healthy landscapes that better survive natural and human-caused disturbances, while reducing wildfire risk to communities, infrastructure, and natural and cultural resources. Episode 3 of "Afire" highlights three scientists and partnerships that are attempting to better understand and utilize prescribed fire. From Georgia, ecologist Joe O’Brien explains how researchers and forest managers are forming unique meetings that spark fresh ideas and advancements in prescribed burning across the South. In California, forester David Weise begins research into the processes related to pyrolysis to better estimate how prescribed burning affects people. And, in...2024-04-2451 min
ForestcastAfire: Understanding FireFire is a form all of its own, but a simple way to understand fire is as a swarm. A swarm of bees. Or starlings. Or mosquitos. A spreading fire is a swarm of ignitions, a series of small fires over and over. Season 4 of Forestcast is a series of fires, a series of voices. It’s a 360-degree introduction to fire from a scientific standpoint. The story of how fire research shapes our landscapes, and our lives. Through kaleidoscoping voices from across the country, listeners will be taken inside the largest forest research organization in...2024-04-101h 06
Forest FocusEpisode 44: Crawling in CavesThere are portals within many national forests that offer entry into realms of the most curious forms of biodiversity. These underground chambers and hallways are called lava tubes or caves. In these landscapes below the ground, tiny creatures creep in the shadows in costumes of faded hues. Their pallor is paired with neighboring life forms that sparkle when hit by a flashlight, as if dusted with glitter. And these subterranean spaces are also archives that contain records of our Paleolithic and climatic past. To explore within, a readiness for crawling will be required. Fortunately, we have an experienced caver...2024-03-1022 min
Meet Me In Tennessee16. Tennessee's Cherokee National Forest: A Look into USDA Forest Service's MissionIn this engaging discussion with Leslie Morgan and Chris Joyner from the USDA Forest Service, the mission of the Forest Service and its multi-use approach towards the Cherokee National Forest is dissected. From timber harvesting, wildlife conservation to recreation, the conversation navigates through the involvement of volunteer groups in forest maintenance, the challenges of land management, and future plans. The term 'Disney effect' is explored noting the misconception of the reality of the outdoors, and the talk culminates with suggestions for public involvement in preserving public lands, with notable mentions of organizations like Friends of the Cherokee National Forest...2024-02-161h 19
Forest FocusEpisode 43: Wandering after WolvesThe gray wolf (Canis lupus) became extirpated, or locally extinct, in California in the 1920s. But this large member of the dog family was once a native species in California that ranged widely here and throughout much of the United States. In recent years, gray wolves have been returning to California. Their slow comeback is a natural progression of population growth happening in others western states. Wildlife specialists with the USDA Forest Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife are working together to monitor and conserve this recovering species by looking for signs of their whereabouts with...2024-01-2638 min
Forest FocusEpisode 42: Pacific Southwest Research Station 101The Pacific Southwest Research Station is part of the Forest Service's research and development organization. R&D employs more than 500 scientists as well as several hundred technical and support personnel located at 67 sites throughout the U.S. In this episode, we focus on three employees to share who they are and what they do at the station.2024-01-241h 57
Forest FocusEpisode 41: Tree Mortality from a Bird's-Eye ViewWhen it comes to getting perspective on forest health, sky-high observations are a big help in California. With over 30 million acres of forested land throughout the state, there is a lot of ground to cover. So, each summer, Forest Service aerial tree survey specialists spend several weeks in the aircraft gathering observations on tree mortality in lands of all ownerships.2024-01-2013 min
Forest FocusEpisode 40: Frog Fridays[Croak. Ribbit. Croak. Ribbit.] This is the anthem of Frog Fridays. This May-time wildlife survey is held within a stream on the Tahoe National Forest, where foothill yellow-legged frogs lay their eggs. Each outing is part training exercise, part data collection for future habitat restoration and part protection mission. And it is where we will literally get our feet wet in wildlife conservation.2023-11-2921 min
Forest FocusEpisode 39: Finding FishersSpecies are designated as endangered when their population is in significant decline, which often means documentation of these species in their natural habitat is increasingly challenging. Perhaps as difficult as landing on a conclusive verbal description of how they look. But knowing where endangered species, like the fisher, are in the landscape and how many of them are there, is essential for their conservation and recovery.2023-11-1720 min
Forest FocusEpisode 38: Seeing Our Forests With SoundNational Forests are locations where we can listen to a concert of wildlife sounds. The caws, croaks, howls, growls and squeaks we might hear are gems of information about wildlife and their habitat. The USDA Forest Service and partners work together to conserve and restore land that wildlife species need to survive but to avoid unintended negative impacts of wildlife, it is essential to know what species are in a forest and where they are located.2023-11-1621 min
Forest FocusEpisode 37: Cone CampThis is the audio version of our first Videocast from one of the four Cone Camps held in 2023. The camps are built around a day in the classroom and a day in the field. Participants network and learn from industry experts from American Forests, USDA Forest Service, CAL FIRE, and the California Cone Corps. On the agenda: cone phenology, monitoring and collection techniques, seed needs, cone collection planning, contracting and coordinating with agencies, reporting crop sighting, field logistics, safety and more. [Video version]2023-11-1527 min
Forest FocusEpisode 36: Being BeaversIn the episode we learn the valuable connection between beavers and meadows. In a meadow, the squish of mud and splash of a slightly flooded landscape are signs of health. It can be easy to overlook meadows with national forests, perhaps simply because our attention is more often drawn to things that fill a space - a lake, a mountain, a grove of trees - rather than what appears to be merely open space.2023-11-1426 minProfessional Development for Women and Minorities2023 WOC (1780) The Effects of Climate Change: Exciting Challenges for STEM Professionals Presented by the USDA Forest ServiceLearning Objectives: Enhance your understanding of the role STEM professionals play in the research and management of the effects and mitigation of climate change, with a particular focus on disturbances such as fire, with outstanding leaders and scientists from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service.
Climate change is affecting disturbance regimes across the globe. These include catastrophic wildfires, drought, hurricanes, flooding, and extreme weather that threaten the health and resilience of our communities, lands, waters, and wildlife. Now more than ever, science-based management of natural resources is increasingly important for mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate chang...2023-10-261h 13
Kansas CanopyPrescribed Fire in WoodlandsJoin Rural District Forester EJ Jamison and Assistant Fire Management Officer Dennis Carlson to discuss the ecology, purpose, and history of prescribed fire in Kansas woodlands.
Fire in Eastern Oak Forests: https://www.fs.usda.gov/nrs/pubs/inf/nrs_inf_39_22.pdf
Connect with Kansas Forest Staff: https://www.kansasforests.org/about/staff/index.html
View Upcoming Events: https://www.kansasforests.org/events/index.html
USDA Webinars: https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/products/multimedia/webinars2023-09-0618 min
Forest FocusEpisode 35: Bark Beetles: The Science of ScentsHave you ever wondered why some trees — in certain locations, a lot of trees — are brown and dying? The connection between bark beetles, drought and tree mortality is a topic of this episode and how researchers are looking into making trees less attractive...to bark beetles, not tree huggers.2023-08-2817 min
Forest FocusEpisode 34: Planting Trees for Tomorrow's ClimateIn this episode, we'll meet Forest Service conservation geneticist Dr. Jessica Wright within a post-fire landscape on the Plumas National Forest. In collaboration with others out there with her, Jessica is planting three very different tree species - ponderosa pine, incense cedar, and valley oak, within an experimental plot as part of a study on assisted migration. With this climate adaptation option, seeds are collected from a warmer habitat taken to a nursery for analysis or to grow into seedlings and then planted in a cooler habitat.2023-08-0915 min
Forest FocusEpisode 33: Reforesting Sequoias with a SilviculturistSpringtime is defined as an early or flourishing stage of development, and after a wildfire damage the landscape, we sometimes see teams of people replanting trees within the burn scar during the early part of the year. Jamie Hinrichs helps explain reforestation efforts in a very special place in the forest.2023-08-0919 min
Forest FocusEpisode 32: Nature's Benefits: CarbonIn this episode, we return once again to our series on Nature's Benefits. Today, we will focus on a benefit you can't see. Well, you can see the effects of it... it's a bit hard to explain. Luckily for me, we have Lara Buluc back to handle the reins, along with experts to talk about: Carbon.2023-08-0922 min
Come Rain or ShineAfter-Fire Reforestation: The John T. Harrington Forestry Research CenterThe John T. Harrington Forestry Research Center in Mora, New Mexico, aims to advance the understanding of restoration activities on forested areas in New Mexico through multidisciplinary research, education, and partner collaborations. The Center also provides science-based solutions for private, tribal, state, and federal forest managers, who face the threat of catastrophic fires due to overgrown forests and the inability of post-fire forest communities and ecosystems to naturally regenerate after fires. Photo credit: Reanna BurnettRelated Links:John T. Harrington Forestry Research Center at Mora2023-07-0542 min
ForestcastFlying the Nuthatch HomeOnce spanning nearly 6 million acres in Missouri's Ozarks, the shortleaf pine and oak woodland ecosystem has dwindled to 100,000 acres today. Along with the loss of this habitat, a bird—the brown-headed nuthatch—disappeared as well. However, after decades of woodland restoration, the brown-headed nuthatch has returned to Missouri—by plane. Over two summers in 2020 and 2021, a team of scientists successfully captured and flew 102 birds from Arkansas to Missouri, marking the bird’s return to the state after being locally extinct since 1907. Weighing in at a mere one-third of an ounce, approximately the combined weight of a nickel and a qu...2023-06-2744 min
Forest FocusEpisode 31: Observing Tree Diseases with a Stump BusterIn this episode, we learn about tree disease and how it affects forest health from Jamie Hinrichs. Jamie was featured in Episode 29 - Trails and Transformation when she took us to the Inyo National Forest backcountry to hear from a California Conservation Corps trail crew. Expect to hear more from Jamie and her adventures into the forest in future episodes in what we will start calling an occasional series, Echoes from the Understory.2023-05-1524 min
ForestcastWomen of Research: Our Sustainable Future with Cindi WestCindi West has over 30 years of experience working across private industry, academia, and federal government in a variety of jobs to ensure sustainability of natural resources. In February 2021 she assumed the position of Director of the Northern Research Station and the Forest Products Lab. She has served in various leadership roles in the Forest Service, including as the Director of the Office of Sustainability & Climate Change, Associate Deputy Chief for R&D, Director for Resource Use Sciences, and Deputy Station Director for Pacific Northwest Research Station. Cindi holds a BS degree in Forestry Management, an...2023-04-1327 min
ForestcastWomen of Research: Scientific & Ethical Integrity with Maggie HardyMaggie Hardy is the program manager of the Rocky Mountain Research Station Forest and Woodland Ecosystems Program, a group of scientists that develops and delivers scientific knowledge and management tools for sustaining and restoring the health, biodiversity, productivity, and ecosystem processes of forest and woodland landscapes. Before joining the Rocky Mountain Research Station, Maggie served as Chief Regulatory Scientist and as an Executive Director with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority. In these roles, Maggie managed areas of policy; regulation and budget; provided strategic stakeholder engagement; and led integrated learning and development initiatives. In previous federal...2023-04-1035 min
ForestcastWomen of Research: Changing the World Through Soil with Deb Page-DumroeseResearch soil scientist Deb Page-Dumroese’s research interests center around maintaining soil productivity during and after land management activities. As site principal investigator for several North American Long-Term Soil Productivity Study plots, Deb is well-versed in the pre- and post-treatment sampling necessary to determine changes in above- and below-ground nutrient properties associated with harvesting, organic matter removal, and biochar additions. In partnership with the Missoula Technology Development Center (Keith Windell) and Dr. Nate Anderson (RMRS) she developed a biochar spreader to easily distribute biochar on forest sites. Related Research: Biochar Basics: An A-to-Z Guide to...2023-04-0624 min
Military HDDLA Supports The USDA Forest Service SmokejumpersForest fires are part of the landscape in Northern California especially from June to October. One group of heroes that put their lives on the line to battle the fires are the USDA/U.S. Forest Service Smokejumpers. DLA is now proud to support these heroes of the forest with many of the supplies they need to contain and put out a fire2023-04-0603 min
ForestcastWomen of Research: A Life of Healthy Forests with Jenny JuzwikResearch plant pathologist, Jenny Juzwik, conducts studies on diseases of trees that impact forest health and productivity. Her career-long interest and passion has been the study of interactions among microorganisms and insects associated with disease occurrence and development. One particular focus has been on the insects responsible for transmission of the oak wilt fungus, Bretziella fagacearum. In 2014 she completed research that involved elucidation of the major biotic determinants of hickory decline and investigation of the role(s) putative pathogens play in the complex. In 2010, she initiated 13 years of investigations of bark and ambrosia beetles associated with eastern...2023-04-0321 min
ForestcastWomen of Research: The Nature of Stewardship with Lindsay CampbellResearch social scientist, Lindsay Campbell, explores the dynamics of civic stewardship, environmental governance, and sustainability policymaking--with a particular emphasis on issues of social and environmental justice—all from New York City. She is a founding member of the New York City Urban Field Station, which was jointly created by the Northern Research Station and the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. The Urban Field Station develops and applies adaptive management and science to improve human well-being and the environment in urban metropolitan areas. She creates transdisciplinary spaces of collaboration between land managers, scientists, artists, and ot...2023-03-3028 min
ForestcastWomen of Research: Plots to Blocks with Sjana SchanningEcologist Sjana Schanning’s fieldwork has taken her from the Rincon Mountains of Arizona, to the the winter woods of Wisconsin, to the summer shores of Michigan’s Isle Royale. But, she’s recently shifted away from the field towards data analysis, our cities’ trees and the Urban FIA Program. Sjana collects field data and performs data analysis and reporting for the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) Program. FIA data provides critical status and trend information to resource managers, policy makers, investors, and the public through a system of annual resource inventory that covers both public and private...2023-03-2727 min
ForestcastWomen of Research: Juggling Motherhood & Ornithology with Susannah LermanEcologist Susannah Lerman walks us through her career and life, from falling in love with birds in Israel, to making something more of mowing, to hosting a motherhood workshop, to the mentors that enabled her to create a career out of science. Susannah’s research goal is to improve the sustainability of urban and human-dominated landscapes for birds, bees and other wildlife, and advancing human well-being through strengthening connections between people and nearby nature. Related Research: Juggling Parenthood and Ornithology: A Full Lifecycle Approach to Supporting Mothers through the American Ornithological Society (2021) To Mow or...2023-03-2330 min
ForestcastWomen of Research: Watershed Moments & Moms with Chelcy MiniatEcologist Chelcy Miniat shares watershed moments of her career and life, from a spark of science in sixth grade, to her time at the Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory, to her decisions about if and when to have children. Chelcy is the program manager of the Rocky Mountain Research Station Maintaining Resilient Dryland Ecosystems (MRDE) program, a group of scientists that investigates the biology, use, management, and restoration of grasslands, shrublands, and deserts. Her own research is centered on developing a mechanistic understanding of watershed ecosystem function by studying how abiotic and biotic factors (species, environmental variables, disturbances) regulate...2023-03-2025 min
ForestcastWomen of Research: An Ode to Mentors by Sara BrownEcologist Sara Brown takes us through eight chapters of her career and the 10 mentors that made her, from wildland firefighting, to smokejumping, to teaching in New Mexico, to directing the Missoula Fire Science Lab. Sara is a classically trained ecologist, with a focus on fire ecology. Before her return to the Forest Service in 2015, she was an Assistant Professor of Forestry at New Mexico Highlands University. She taught wildfire science and ecology courses, and enjoyed working on research problems in the field with students. Her applied research program provided graduate and undergraduate students with opportunities to work...2023-03-1638 min
ForestcastWomen of Research: Twenty-Five Years of Mentorship with Laura Kenefic & Susan StoutTo celebrate the immeasurable impact of women in our nation’s history, and to honor the scientists who have inspired others to dream, work, study, serve and succeed, Forecast is kicking off a special 10-episode series highlighting women’s perspectives in research over the past 50 years. Eleven scientists from the Northern Research Station and Rocky Mountain Research Station will share their experiences from before, during and after careers with the USDA Forest Service. Stories of mentors and mentorship, motherhood, rural and urban stewardship, passions for science, leadership, and beyond. To kick things off, a conversation betw...2023-03-1339 min
Come Rain or ShineBiochar: Uses and Potential BenefitsWe have been hearing a lot about biochar recently. Biochar is the charred material leftover after partially burning organic material, which is then used to improve soil health, remediate polluted soils, sequester carbon, and even improve soil water holding capacity and soil moisture. This month we spoke with Dr. Debbie Page-Dumerose and Dr. Nate Anderson, both with the USFS Rocky Mountain Research Station, to learn more about biochar and its many uses. Episode image: USDA Forest Service photo by Deborah Page-Dumroese.Relevant links:Read this handy 2023-03-0133 min
Forest FocusEpisode 30: Nature's Benefits: RecreationIn this episode, we focus on another nature's benefits: recreation. This continues our series on the many benefits forests provide so let's take a long hike and chat about how we understand outdoor activities. The diverse landscapes and climates in California's 18 National Forests provide many outdoor recreation opportunities to nearly 24 million people annually including: hiking, camping, picnicking, water activities, winter sports, horseback riding, motorized activities, and green space for gathering, practicing cultural traditions, or solitude. From primitive, unconfined solitude to formalized group activities and the broad spectrum of activities in between these outdoor experiences, these recreation opportunities help people...2023-02-2422 min
ForestcastBackcross: How A Bird Influences Beech Resistance Patterns (BONUS)Beech bark disease has been killing American beech trees in eastern North America since the late 1890s. In northern New England, New York, and the Maritimes where the disease is most severe, groups of disease resistant trees occasionally occur. Genetic studies reveal that trees in groups are families, and distribution patterns suggest that they were “planted” by blue jays. Related Research: American Beech Resistance to Cryptococcus fagisuga (1983) Forest Insect & Disease Leaflet 75 (1983) Dispersal of Beech Nuts by Blue Jays in Fragmented Landscapes (1985) Spatial and Temporal Development of Beech Bark Disease in the Northeastern United States (2005) Beech Bark Dise...2023-02-0726 min
AJ Daily2-1-23 Higher land values, cash rents; USDA continues laying foundation for more and better markets with pilot Cattle Contracts Library; NCBA statement on launch of Cattle Contract Library pilot program; USDA Forest Service accepting grant applications2-1-23 AJ DailyHigher Land Values, Cash RentsAdapted from an article by Jim Jansen & Jeffrey Stokes, University of Nebraska–Lincoln USDA Continues Laying Foundation for More and Better Markets with Launch of Pilot Cattle Contracts Library Adapted from a release by the USDA NCBA Statement on Launch of the Cattle Contract Library Pilot Program Adapted from a release by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association USDA Forest Service Accepting Grant Applications for Wood Innovations Projects, Community Wood Energy Facilities Adapted from a release by the USDA...2023-02-0104 min
Forest FocusEpisode 29: Trails in TransformationIn this episode, we meet up with a backcountry trail crew on the Inyo National Forest. California Conservation Corps members and the United States Forest Service staff tell us what it takes to live and work on the trail. As we shall soon learn, the combination of partnership, funding from the Great American Outdoors Act, the true grit brings transformation for the trail and the crew.2022-12-2019 minProfessional Development for Women and MinoritiesWOC 2022: (1777) USDA Forest Service, Leading as a Climate-Smart STEM ProfessionalLearning Objectives: Enhance your understanding of the best available science and the role of STEM professionals in the management of climate-smart forests, communities, and economies with outstanding leaders and scientists from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service.
Drought, hurricanes, flooding, extreme weather, and catastrophic wildfires driven by the growing climate crisis threaten the health and resilience of our communities, lands, waters, and wildlife. Now more than ever, science-based management of natural resources is increasingly important for mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change. Thinking about your personal and professional goals a...2022-11-031h 14
Forest FocusEpisode 28: Placerville Nursery - From Seed to Reforestation and RestorationIn this episode, we focus on how reforestation and restoration projects begin. It all starts with a seed. What happens when a national forest in California needs to replant trees after the damage of a wildfire, insects or other harmful activity that has scarred the landscape? What they need are seedlings adapted to grow in specific elevations and climates. What they need to do is call the seed specialists at the Placerville Nursery, located in Camino on the Eldorado National Forest.2022-10-171h 02
Forest FocusEpisode 27: Chinese Heritage Sites on California National ForestsNational Forests are loved by many people for many things beyond the recreational benefit they provide. We will tie in Episode 22: Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with another amazing benefit carved into the national forest landscape: History. Historical markers can be found throughout California's forests, parks, cities and towns that speak towards the Native American tribes that lived off the land, to the pioneers who surveyed and explored, and to those who shapred what California is today. Episode 27: Chinese Heritage Sites on California National Forests2022-09-2639 min
Forest FocusEpisode 26: National Invasive Plant, Pest and Disease Awareness MonthIn this episode, we focus on National Invasive Plant, Pest and Disease Awareness Month. With the U.S. Forest Service under the Department of Agriculture there is certainly a connection between these harmful invaders and the threat they pose to our nation's food security, backyard gardens and natural resources. Episode 26: National Invasive Plant, Pest and Disease Awareness Month2022-09-2649 min
Forest FocusEpisode 25: California Climate Investments Grant Awards ProjectsIn this episode we focus on our collaboration with the State of California and particularly CAL FIRE. Since 2015, the U.S. Forest Service and our partners have received roughly $209 million in grants fudning for work on and around National Forest System lands. This funding is managed by CAL FIRE's Forest Health and Fire Prevention grant programs, which are both part of California Climate Investments, funded with proceeds from California's Cap-and-Trade auction revenues. We talk how this funding assists us to increase the pace and scale of our ecological restoration and speak about successes from the past several years. Episode 25...2022-09-2619 min
Forest FocusEpisode 24: Native American Heritage MonthIn this episode, we focus on National Native American Heritage Month and speak with a former Modoc National Forest employee about his career, his Choctaw heritage, and his chance of a lifetime to work with Bison and the Modoc Nation. Episode 24: Native American Heritage Month2022-09-1653 min
Forest FocusEpisode 23: BatsIn the episode, Ted Weller, an ecologist with the Pacific Southwest Research Station, helps us go batty for bats. Each year, Bat Week is observed the week before Halloween and is used by bat enthusiasts, scientists, conservation groups, and others to educate the public, dispel myths, and bring attention to the struggles they face. The beneficial impact these amazing creatures have on our ecosystem should be celebrated far beyond the season of spooky ghosts, skeletons, and vampires. Episode 23: Bats2022-09-151h 02
Forest FocusEpisode 22: Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage MonthIn this episode, we focus on Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month by speaking with three employees about their childhood, how they got involved in the Forest Service and more. So, join us in welcoming a hydrologist, a shared stewardship coordinator, and the acting National Forest Stewardship Program manager in Incorporative Forestry. Episode 22: Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month2022-09-1548 min
Forest FocusEpisode 21: Nature's Benefits 101—Part 2We learned in Episode 19 about Ecosystem Services or Nature's Benefits in an introduction-type show. This show, we dive back in with Part 2 of that series with our first forest benefit spotlight shining on - Water. A research associate with the Public Policy Institute of California Water Policy Center joins us to talk about this critical need. Episode 21: Nature's Benefits 101—Part 22022-09-1520 min
Forest FocusEpisode 20: This Is Who We Are—Working During The PandemicIn this episode, we speak with Sarah LaPlante, a Forest Service employee, about her challenges of working as a District Ranger on the Stanislaus National Forest during the COVID-19 pandemic and balancing her workload with her new role as a mother. Episode 20: This Is Who We Are—Working During The Pandemic2022-09-1518 min
Forest FocusEpisode 18: National Greening Fire Team - Recycling at Fire IncidentsThe focus of this episode is recycling. What happens when a large wildfire requires the creation of a fire camp or incident command post, where hundreds or even thousands of personnel support the firefighting effort? The amount of trash that accumulates could match that of a small town. We speak with the National Greening Fire Team, ambassadors, and recycling vendors who work to lessen this environmental impact. Episode 18: National Greening Fire Team - Recycling at Fire Incidents2022-09-1221 min
Forest FocusEpisode 19: Nature's Benefits 101—Part 1Millions of us understand what the benefit of being outdoors has on our mind, body, and spirit. But, what other benefits does the natrual world provide on your national forests? Well, this episode we explore how nature benefits our daily lives with an introduction into ecosystem services, otherwise known as nature's benefits. Episode 19: Nature's Benefits 101 - Part 12022-09-1212 min
Forest FocusPack Stock Center of ExcellenceIn this episode we explore backcountry and wilderness packing with the Pacific Southwest Region's Pack Stock Center of Excellence. Have a listen to a tradition, one covered in over a hundred years of trail dust, that is still critical and relevant today in supporting fire management, ecosystems and forest management. Episode 17: Pack Stock Center of Excellence2022-09-1225 min
Forest FocusNEPA's 50th AnniversaryIn this episode, Steve Dunsky, a videographer and historian of the Forest Service for more than 30 years, speaks with Char Miller about the 50th anniversary of NEPA, the National Environmental Policy Act. Episode 16: NEPA's 50th Anniversary 2022-09-061h 01
Kansas CanopyMeditate on PatienceRyan Rastok is the Rural Forester for District 1 in northeast Kansas. In his role as a District Forester, Ryan serves landowners in seven counties - lending technical service and guidance on how to manage their rural forests.
In his district, Ryan works with a variety of landowners that have a variety of goals for their property.
Ryan was drawn to forestry through his education as a forest entomologist and working as an arborist through college. He now combines his passion for entomology and forestry in his everyday work.
Wildlife management and recreation are...2022-07-1745 min
Come Rain or ShineAssessing Climate Change Vulnerability of Navajo Nation ForestsWarming temperatures can exacerbate forest drought stress, reducing defenses to bark beetle outbreaks, wildfire, and tree diseases. Concern about losses within the forests of the Navajo Nation due to these stressors led to a partnership between the Navajo Forestry Department and a diverse group of scientists to assess the vulnerability of Navajo forests to climate change and develop strategies to promote forest resilience to drought and extreme fire behavior. Here we speak with Principal Investigator Dr. Margaret Evans, and forestry consultant Jaime Yazzie, to learn more about this project.Relevant Links:2022-07-0648 min