Forest are key to the economic and environmental wellbeing of Kentucky. The state is 47% forested with over 12 million acres of woodlands and, collectively, the forest sector contributes over $13.5 billion annually to the state’s economy including over 60,398 jobs.   However, a range of insects, diseases, invasive plants, and other issues threaten the sustainability of our forests, woodlands, and urban trees. For example, the invasive emerald ash borer alone is estimated to cost Kentucky’s forestry sector over $95 million annually. With new challenges always arriving, it can be difficult for woodland landowners and forestry professionals to be aware of new forest health issues and best management practices.

To increase understanding and management of these issues, I organized and spoke at a multi-state Forest Health Training in Cadiz, KY on September 4, 2019.   This training involved collaboration with partners at University of Illinois and Clemson University, as well as county agents in Lyon and Ohio Counties.  CEUs were provided to professionals including county agents (in-service), the Society of American Foresters, Kentucky Pesticide Applicators, and Indiana Pesticide Applicators. This training attracted 51 people, 45 natural resource professionals (e.g. foresters, land managers, agency employees) and 6 county agents.  Invited speakers from around the country presented on a range of topics, including tree diseases, insect pests, invasive plants, and new technology to assist in diagnosis and management. This training enabled participant to recognize common forest health issues, identify new invasive tree threats, and select potential management approaches.