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This classroom and field based workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to Minnesota's Forest Management Guidelines. An essential workshop for all Minnesota forest managers and logging contractors offered jointly by SFEC and the Minnesota Logger Education Program.

The topics that we will be covering include: harvest planning, wetland basics, riparian management zones/filter strips, leave trees and wildlife, and erosion control. The format of this workshop is focused on discussions and hands-on activities related to the Forest Management Guidelines. You can refresh yourself on the FMGs by listening to a podcast hosted by UMN Extension and the MN Logger Education program: z.umn.edu/FMGpodcast

This workshop will address silvicultural strategies for mesic hardwood systems using the Minnesota DNR's silvicultural guidance as well as on the ground insights from local foresters. Throughout the day we'll talk through management strategies at all stages of stand development in these systems. Discussions will be varied, but we'll key in on managing for hardwood quality, dialing in the timing and extent of intermediate treatments, and more.

This field based workshop will address silvicultural strategies for wet forest systems, with a focus on ash-dominated forests, using the Minnesota DNR's silvicultural guidance as well as on-the-ground insights from local foresters. Throughout the day we'll talk through management strategies at all stages of stand development in these systems. We'll address climate change impacts in these systems both in the context of strategies for managers as well as the implications to forest operations; we'll also bring in the latest research from the University of Minnesota and other organizations as it relates to forest health concerns. The event includes a visit to a 12 year EAB simulation and ash replacement study.

Join UMN extension and forest health experts at St. Croix State Park to learn more about oak wilt on its leading edge in Minnesota. As we work to slow the spread of this fungal disease northward, broad familiarity with its symptoms and potential management strategies is critical. This workshop will cover common symptoms of active oak wilt with hands-on demonstrations of current wilt pockets. We will also show effective management methods employed in St. Croix State Park and discuss additional viable management strategies.

While everyone is welcome at this event, we’re planning it primarily for professional forest and land managers.

We are pleased to announce our free 2026 webinar series. Each session includes an approximately 45 minute presentation and live questions and answers. Sessions are the second Tuesday of the month from 9:00-10:00.

Each webinar is rated for one CAT1 credit. We will record each webinar and post it on the SFEC YouTube Channel. Recordings are typically available within one week of the live broadcast.

Join Extension foresters to discuss some of the key issues and questions around forest and woodlands facing Minnesota land stewards. These online sessions will be very informal, open to the public and free of charge. Each session will start with a brief presentation followed by a discussion framed around participant questions on the topic.

All webinars will be from 9 to 10 a.m.