From the Woods Today

Kentucky's Office of the State Entomologist has been around since 1897. You may know about their citizen science program, but their office does a lot more. Travel through a bit of history and learn how this office came to be and what they are doing today. Our guest Carl Harper has been with the University of Kentucky for 29 years working to help slow the spread of invasives that threaten our forestry, horticultural, and agricultural industry.   Also on tap...Chad Niman, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, explains how insects have affected the wood industry. 10.19.25   For more episodes of From the Wo...

Today on From the Woods Today we celebrate Tree Week! Join us as Dr. Ellen Crocker, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, talks about how to properly water landscape trees. Make sure to watch as she and Kelly Jackson, Christian County Extension, give you a few tips!   Also on tap...Laurie Thomas, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, explains some webinars that are taking place during Tree Week. She will also present a new Tree of the Week, sassafras. 10.15.25

For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today.        

Join us as Tristian Curry, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, helps us learn all about bears and why they hibernate.   Also on tap... Chad Niman, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, speaks about the upcoming National Forest Products Week. 10.8.25

For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today 

Join us for an engaging discussion with Jacob Stewart from the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, as he explores the advantages of prescribed fire. Learn what you, as a woodland owner, need to do to implement this practice on your property.   Also on tap... John Duvall, KY Maple Syrup Association, as he talks about the basics of maple syrup and some beginner's classes that will take place in October.   For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today.
10/1/25

Join us as Dr. Ellen Crocker, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, talks about several of the most hunted fall mushrooms.   Also on tap...Dr. Amanda Gumbert, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, talks about various aspects of watersheds, which are areas of land that drain water to a single water body. 9.24.25   For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today.

Join us as James Wright, Kentucky Forest Industries Association (KFIA), talks about the upcoming Kentucky Wood Expo.

Also on tap... join Chad Niman, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, as he joins us to discuss Wood Product Intitiative and different types of trainings. 9.17.25

For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today 

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Join us as Dr. D.J. McNeil, UK Forestry and Natural Resources, talks about our feathered friends in another edition of Wings of Kentucky.   Also on tap...join Chris Wiedamann, Urban and Community Forestry Program Coordinator with the Kentucky Division of Forestry, as he talks about urban forestry and the division's Urban Forestry Program and how it can help landowners. 9.10.25   For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today. 

Join us as Dr. Hannah Tiffin, UK Entomology, shares expert tips on controlling and managing ticks in the woods. Discover effective strategies to keep these pesky insects at bay, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience.   Also on tap...join Dr. Ellen Crocker, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, as she tells us all about fall webworms. Fall webworms are native moths most easily recognized in their larval stage when caterpillars form silken webs in the foliage of trees.

For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today.  9.3.25        

This week's From The Woods Today consists of Hickories in Kentucky, hosted by Laurie Thomas, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, who will talk about the many traits, what to look out for, and other different facts and important information involving hickories.   Also on tap...join Dr. Amanda Gumbert, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, and Dr. Emily Byers as they discuss the basic components of wetlands. Dr. Byers’ research talks about how wetlands can remove chemicals like PFAS (aka forever chemicals) and nutrients from our water sources.

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This week's From The Woods Today consists of Hickories in Kentucky, hosted by Laurie Thomas, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, who will talk about the many traits, what to look out for, and other different facts and important information involving hickories.   Also on tap...join Dr. Amanda Gumbert, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, and Dr. Emily Byers as they discuss the basic components of wetlands. Dr. Byers’ research talks about how wetlands can remove chemicals like PFAS (aka forever chemicals) and nutrients from our water sources.   For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://fore...

On this week's From The Woods Today, we will have Lindsey New, County Executive Director for Pulaski/McCreary Co. Farm Service Agency. Her presentation will cover general details of the Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) which helps private forests owners restore forest health caused by natural disasters. The USDA Farm Service Agency is conducting an EFRP sign-up through August 29 for damage caused by the May 16 tornado in Pulaski and Laurel counties.

Also on tap...Dr. Ellen Crocker, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, will join us for another edition of What's Bugging My...

Dr. Jonathan Larson, Assistant Professor, Extension Entomology, is joining From the Woods Today to discuss the important question: “Do mosquitoes, ants, and chiggers do anything good?” While they might seem like just pests, Dr. Larson will explain the surprising roles they play in different ecosystems and the many other ways they benefit not only us, but also other things as well.

Also on tap...Blake Newtown, Extension Entomology, will discuss the different types of ticks, how to protect yourself from them, and Alpha-gal syndrome.

For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.ca.uk...

For this episode of From The Woods Today, Dr. Chris Barton, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, joins us to talk about why the land and topography cause Eastern Kentucky to experience such frequent flash flooding.

Also on tap...Do you want to know more about the animals in your woods? The ones that sneak around unnoticed, but play a big part in the forest ecosystem? Frannie Preston, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, will teach you how to find and identify wildlife signs and learn how biologists use...

This week, the Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) will explore ways to assist landowners in maintaining forest health. Special guest Alexandra Blevins, a forest health specialist with KDF, will share the various resources and support available to you!

Also on tap...Dr. Ellen Crocker, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, will join us for another edition of Pesky Plants, Tree-of-Heaven and spotted lanternfly.

For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today.

Snakes have frequently faced misunderstanding and criticism throughout the years. In celebration of World Snake Day, Dr. Steve Price, Acting Chair of the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources and Professor of Stream and Riparian Ecology, will join us to discuss why these fascinating creatures deserve our respect and appreciation. He will delve deeper into the world of snakes during the show, so be sure to tune in and discover more about these remarkable creatures!

Also on Tap...Laurie Thomas, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, will present another installment of a...

Frannie Preston, ForestryWorks Coordinator for Kentucky and UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, will be our guest to talk about how different forestry careers shapes young minds. ForestryWorks® is a collaborative effort between the Forest Workforce Training Institute and various partners within the forest industry to develop a pipeline of qualified workers for the nation’s forestry and forest products manufacturing industries. It educates students, parents, and teachers about career opportunities in the forest industry while providing pathways for students and job seekers to start their future career in the industry.   Also on Tap... Laurie Thomas, University of Kentucky Depa...

Dr. Matt Springer, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, is our guest today talking about how animals adapt to the unique environmental challenges in Kentucky, from braving the cold to thriving in the sweltering heat. He will also discuss how animals adapt in environmental situations such as weather and the different seasons.

Also on Tap... UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension Forest Health Specialist Dr. Ellen Crocker will discuss summer galls in the next edition of What's Bugging My Tree. 7.2.25

For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.ca.uky...

Dr. Jonathan Larson, University of Kentucky Entomology Department, is joining us once again by diving into the world of insects. With a wealth of knowledge, he will unveil the astonishing behaviors and their critical roles in maintaining the health of our ecosystems. Dr. Larson will be sure to go into more facts about insects that you won’t want to miss!

Also on tap...Laurie Thomas, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, presents us with another installment of Tree of the Week.

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This week we welcome Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves Caroline Kane. Caroline is going to talk about the important role bees play in pollination and why they are so important to our environment and how you can support Kentucky native bees in your own backyard.   Also on tap...Laurie Thomas, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, presents us with another installment of Tree of the Week.   Pam Snyder, Kentucky Division of Forestry, talks about efforts that are being made to help tornado victims. Forest landowners, homeowners, and municipalities or communities impacted by the December 2021/January 2022 to...

Are you seeing damage in your trees since the cicadas came to town? Something to worry about or not? Dr. Ellen Crocker, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, and Dr. Jonathan Larson, University of Kentucky Entomology, joins us to explain whether or not this is an issue for your forests.

Also on tap... James Wright, Executive Director of the Kentucky Forest Industries Association (KFIA), talks about transitioning into his new position, how KFIA operates by helping the industries of Kentucky. And finally Mike Silliman, Kentucky Association of Consulting Foresters (KACF), joins us to talk...

Dr. Jonathan Larson from the University of Kentucky Entomology Department, joins us to explain how fireflies produce their mesmerizing glow.

Also on tap... Made in the Shade: How Shade Tolerance Influences Woodlands and Their Management. Shade tolerance refers to a tree’s ability to grow and thrive in various light levels. 

Billy Thomas explores this key concept and how we can use it to better manage woodlands.

To view more episodes, visit From the Woods Today at https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today FTWT 6.4.25

This week, Frannie Preston, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, joins us to learn about invasive plants and how to monitor them. How they change, tracking them, and more! Later on, Dr. Ellen Crocker, also from the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, joins us for "What's Bugging My Tree" and this week the topic is Anthracnose, which is a fungal disease that causes dark lesions on leaves. It starts on the leaves and eventually gets worse over time. It is also worse in colder weather.

To...

Aleta Botts stops by the show to talk to us all about the Kentucky Farmland Transition Initiative!

The Kentucky Farmland Transition Initiative was launched in spring 2024 to provide resources to farmers and landowners seeking to keep more Kentucky farmland in the hands of active farmers. The initiative highlights helpful resources and activities, pulls together individuals and organizations who care about this issue and want to find ways to help, and develop policy options to consider. We will talk about the Initiative, identify some useful next steps to keep your land in production, and talk about common questions...

This week on From the Woods Today, we are joined by Assistant Professor of Biology at the University of Pikeville, Byron Meade, for a segment all about morels! If you have ever wanted to learn how to identify these mushrooms, now is your chance, as Dr. Ellen Crocker will also be joining us to discuss the fascinating world of fungi. FTWT 5.14.25

To view more episodes visit From the Woods Today at https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today

Cicadas in the news, again? It's true that a different brood is making its grand appearance in 2025 and most importantly, many of them are Kentucky cicadas! Jonathan Larson from UK Entomology will join From the Woods Today to discuss the biology of periodical cicadas, where they can be found in the commonwealth, and if there are any problems you need to be concerned about. It'll be an insect music filled episode that will hopefully inspire you to try some cicada tourism this spring! 5.7.25

https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/woods-today 

This week Dr. Lance Vickers, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, will be explaining to us exactly what a forest management plan is and why would you need one!   Dr. Ellen Crocker will also present another informative segment about forest health and why it is so important! Also Billy Thomas, Extension Forester, gives us the details to this years Kentucky Woodland Owners Short Course.  4.30.25

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Come celebrate Arbor Day with us this week! Environmental Control Supervisor, Jason Hunt from the Kentucky Division of Forestry will be stopping by to talk to us about the best tree planting techniques and methods!

Also on tap... Forestry Extension's Forest Health Specialist, Dr. Ellen Crocker and KY Division of Forestry Forest Health Program Coordinator Alexandra Blevins are back for another forest health segment on how to treat your trees for emerald ash borer and hemlock wooly adelgid. 4.23.25

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Invasive species can harm our crops and trees. Left unchecked, they can devastate entire agricultural industries, threaten our food supply, and cost us billions. Guest speaker Carl Harper, Kentucky's Office of the State Entomologist has been with the University of Kentucky for 28 years working to help slow the spread of invasives and would ideally like to eradicate them, but that doesn’t always happen! Knowing that we can’t do this alone, he created a citizen science program to involve concerned citizens to help combat invasive species crossing our borders!

Also on tap...Dr. DJ McNeil, Assistant Prof...

In this episode of From the Woods Today, Garrard County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development Eric Comley takes us on a virtual walk through some of our common wildflowers and the hotspots to get out in the woods and see something spectacular. As spring drifts into summer, our landscape will continue to change.

Also on tap...Extension Forester Laurie Thomas discusses the characteristics of roughleaf dogwood, which is a small, flowering deciduous tree in the dogwood family. It can be used as an ornamental and is an important wildlife tree. ForestryWorks Program Coordinator also discusses a...

In this episode of From the Woods Today, Dr. Dave Coyle, Associate Professor and State Extension Specialist at Clemson University, discusses the question springing up in everyone's heads as of late. Is Callery pear the worst tree ever? Tune in for the answer and management tips!

And... find out What's Bugging My Tree with Dr. Ellen Crocker, Forest Health Specialist, as we talk all about sapsuckers. 4.2.25

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This week on From the Woods Today it's all about invasives of every kind! Frannie Preston drops in to give us an overview of what exactly an invasive is and Dr. Ellen Crocker, Forest Health Specialist joins us for a segment about the top invasive plants that could be affecting our woods in Kentucky. Also on tap... a very special Wings of Kentucky with Dr. D.J. McNeil who talks about invasive birds. 3.26.25

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From the Woods Today celebrates Water Week!  During Water Week, March 22-30, we shed some light on the importance of water around the state and in our daily lives. Join us as Lee Moser, Extension Associate Senior, gives us a lesson all about water! Check out our Water Week events at: https://soilandwater.ca.uky.edu/WaterWeekEvents

Also on tap... Jason Hunt, Kentucky Division of Forestry Environmental Control Supervisor, stops by to give us a tutorial on how woodland owners can prevent timber theft and trespass in Kentucky. The landowner could reduce this occurrence as much as p...

In this episode of From the Woods Today, Dr. D.J. McNeil and Dr. John Cox visit the show to discuss how extreme weather fluctuations can affect our wildlife. Chad Niman also speaks about mass timber products. These are created by assembling more minor wood elements, like dimension lumber, veneers, or strands, and bonding them with adhesives, dowels, nails, or screws to form larger structural components. 3.12.25. https://fromthewoodstoday.com

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn that many of Kentucky's most charismatic birds are species that perch on branches, the ground, or the water, our tree-clinging birds, like woodpeckers and nuthatches, are some of the most commonly encountered when in our woods. Also on tap...Spring is almost here, and frogs have started calling from wetlands throughout Kentucky.  We will learn how to identify our winter and early spring breeding frogs through their vocalizations.  2.26.25. https://fromthewoodstoday.com

In this episode of From the Woods Today, Dr. Lance Vickers explains how our mixedwood forests are often overlooked and an important part of Kentucky’s landscape—blending hardwoods and conifers to support wildlife, timber production, and ecosystem resilience. Yet, their value remains underappreciated. It’s time to recognize and manage these forests for a more sustainable future! 2.12.25

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn that winter is one of the best times of year to get familiar with your local owls! Learn owling tips and tricks, including common species identification, learning what to look and listen for, and best practices while out looking for owls. 2.5.25. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore how wildfires in Eastern KY can threaten homes and why being Firewise is crucial for protecting properties and conserving firefighting resources. Plus, we celebrate World Wetlands Day with a special segment. 1.29.25.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we dive into the rich history of maple syrup production in Kentucky. We explore how the first Kentucky Maple Day in 2020 helped introduce locals to the state's growing maple syrup industry and how it has become an annual tradition. 1.22.25.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore national and regional efforts aimed at protecting forests and source water. We review key resources that help partners implement initiatives focused on ensuring clean, high-quality drinking water across the Commonwealth. Additionally, we feature our Tree of the Week and Wings of Kentucky segments, highlighting local nature and wildlife. 1.15.25.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we kick off the new year by exploring the latest technological innovations in forestry. Topics include advanced logging equipment, drones, renewable wood products, and cutting-edge manufacturing technologies. We also dive into invasive plant management and discuss the various uses of firewood. 1.8.25.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore the environmental impact of your Christmas tree choice, offering tips on how to make your holidays more sustainable. Plus, we share last-minute gift ideas for the forest enthusiasts in your life. 12.18.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, Dr. DJ McNeil uncovers the hidden bird-related meaning behind one of the most beloved Christmas songs. Plus, we take a moment to celebrate World Soil Day. 12.4.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we talk about two pests that might try to catch a ride with viewers during their holiday visits with family and how to avoid them. Plus, we explore the holiday tradition of mistletoe and offer tips on what to do with your Christmas tree after the holidays. 12.11.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore the birds that grace our tables and discover the fascinating relatives they share. We also give thanks to Kentucky woodlands, their owners, and those who support them. 11.20.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore Kentucky's native conifers, providing helpful tips for identification. Plus, in our Pesky Plants segment, we discuss another invasive species taking root in the region and offer some native plant alternatives that can thrive in your garden. 11.13.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we dive into fall migratory birds, exploring their behavior and migration patterns. Plus, in our What's Bugging My Tree? segment, we take a closer look at oak bracket fungus and how it affects trees. 11.6.24.

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This episode of From the Woods Today is a Halloween spectacular filled with creepy crawlers and spine-chilling tales! Join entomologist, Dr. Larson, as we explore the mysterious world of nocturnal insects and their fascination with light. We’ll also dive into the ecological importance of bats and uncover why they’ve become Halloween’s favorite icon. Plus, Dr. Steve Price shares a spooky forest ghost story! 10.30.24

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate National Reptile Awareness Day with Dr. Steve Price, Professor of Stream and Riparian Ecology. Learn all about reptiles and why they are so cool! 10.23.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate Tree Week by learning how to identify Kentucky's trees using basic leaf and tree characteristics. We also have a segment about National Forest Products Week, happening October 20-26, 2024. 10.16.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate National Logger Day by uncovering the captivating history of logging. We also announce an exciting new logging program that will benefit not only water quality, but the logging and wood industry as a whole. 10.9.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we highlight some of Kentucky’s stunning fall wildflowers. We also discuss bacterial leaf scorch, its impact, and management tips. 9.25.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we talk about the importance of a landowner knowing where their property lines are located, marking the property lines, and notifying adjacent owners. We also have a segment about the Kentucky Maple Syrup Association (KMSA). 10.2.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we delve into the importance of preserving your land for future generations and how to effectively share your vision and values with your family. We also have a segment about mushrooms and our monthly What's Bugging My Tree. 9.18.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we examine how changes to climate are impacting our forests. We also delve into strategies for controlling invasive species, specifically bush honeysuckle. 9.11.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we walk woodland owners through the process of getting a stewardship plan, what is included in a stewardship plan, and how these plans will benefit them and improve their properties. We also have our Tree of the Week and Pesky Plant segments. 9.4.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn how to reduce tick and mosquito habitat around the home and wooded properties. We also have a segment about small game hunting. 8.28.24

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we show some symptoms of apparent herbicide damage tied to the early spring treatments of crop fields. Plus, don't miss our Wings of Kentucky segment, where we explore the avian wonders of our region, and stick around for Pesky Plants, where we confront the invasive bush honeysuckle and its impact on our local ecosystems. 8.21.24

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we find out how insects navigate temperature extremes and why we rarely get free pest control from either end of the thermometer. We also discuss some of the dangers of bites from ticks and mosquitoes in Kentucky and how to reduce or prevent exposure to bites while outdoors. 8.14.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we dive into National Water Quality Month with some tips on soil and water conservation for landowners. Plus, don’t miss our monthly ‘What’s Bugging My Tree?’ segment. 8.7.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate World Ranger Day! Discover how Kentucky Division of Forestry rangers are making a difference statewide. We also dive into the beauty of summer wildflowers and preview some upcoming prescribed fire events. 7.31.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore the final chapter of our Value of Woodlands series where we uncover the hidden value wildlife and timber. 7.24.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn about regional ethnobotany of some of our common summer plants—folklore, traditional medicinal use, and more. We also have a segment on how to read soil surveys. 7.17.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we delve into Kentucky's majestic oaks and learn the secrets of these grand trees and their vital role in our ecosystem. 7.10.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate the forest steward of the year. We also have a segment about tree of heaven. 7.3.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we continue our Value of Woodlands series with a focus on their importance for soil quality, water resources, and recreational opportunities. 6.26.24. 

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This episode of From the Woods Today is all about pollinators! Celebrate Pollinator Week with us as we discuss the importance of pollinators and what you can do to care for them. We also have a segment about the pesky yellow poplar weevil. 6.12.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we discuss how leaving snakes on site can actually be a huge asset for pest control around the barn and garden. We also have our monthly What's Bugging My Tree segment. 6.5.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we dive into the intriguing world of armadillos and discuss why they are becoming increasingly relevant to Kentucky's ecosystems. We also have an exciting segment about how some invasive plant species are edible. Learn which pesky plants you can put on your plate. 5.29.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, co-host Billy Thomas introduces the first installment of a three part series delving into the Value of Woodlands where we will examine the crucial elements contributing to their value, alongside the tangible benefits they offer. We also share some information about an upcoming program for woodland owners. 5.22.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today,  Dr. Jonathan Larson joins us to discuss what periodical cicadas are, why they are such an amazing part of nature, and where you can find them in Kentucky in 2024 and 2025. We also have our monthly What's Bugging My Tree segment. 5.15.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate Amphibian Week by highlighting some of the species found in Kentucky, their natural history, and management activities that can benefit our amphibian populations. We also have another installment of our Tree of the Week series. 5.8.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we delve into the essence of birds, discussing their defining characteristics and the evolutionary path that brought about these feathered, beaked creatures. Additionally, we shine a spotlight on Forest Stewardship Week. 5.1.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today,  we discuss some important yet basic things you should know about the present and potential future condition of white oak in your forest. 4.24.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today,  we learn how to spice up your garden and give back to bats for helping control mosquitoes. We also have our monthly Wings of Kentucky segment on early spring migratory birds. 4.17.24.

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This episode of From the Woods Today highlights a collaborative partnership in eastern Kentucky that is working to improve forest habitat for declining wildlife, and how forest landowners can get involved. We also have our Tree of the Week segment. 4.10.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn the difference between native, non-native, and invasive species and talk about why it matters what terms we use. We also go over some of the functions of our new forestry extension website. 4.3.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we focus on severe weather preparedness and introduce a new user-friendly smartphone app now available from the UK Ag Weather Center, titled Weather Alert. 3.27.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we discuss the many different ways that plants have evolved traits or processes to withstand freezing conditions and freeze/thaw cycles. We also have a segment about the invasive pest, the spotted lanternfly. 3.20.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate Groundwater Awareness Week by sharing the importance of groundwater and protecting it from the impacts of various human land uses. We also have our monthly Wings of Kentucky segment. 3.13.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we have Dr. Larson on to discuss the biology of what happens to insects when they emerge in the springtime due to the warming weather. 3.6.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate World Wildlife Day by highlighting the wildlife diversity in Kentucky. We also have a segment about invasive plant awareness. 2.28.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, viewers will learn how to recognize a few basic tree characteristics to make identifying trees in winter less tricky. We also discuss some bird feeding basics. 2.21.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explain how insects avoid cold temperatures and return the next year to start their life cycles over again. Dr. Matt Springer also joins us to discuss wildlife and their adaptations and other neat tricks that allow them to survive the winter. 2.14.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we discuss attracting birds by adding essential habitat components to your outdoor space. We’ll also discuss resources to help you identify the species you encounter, and ways to report your sightings to citizen science projects like the Great Backyard Bird Count. 2.7.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate World Wetlands Day!  Learn about how we define and identify wetlands as well as some interesting and useful facts about the important functions that they serve in an ecosystem. 1.31.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn about the Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP) which is an exciting opportunity for landowners to sequester carbon while gaining access to financial return and professional management assistance. 1.24.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate maple syrup production in Kentucky! Learn how maple syrup is made and where you can find it during the 2024 Kentucky Maple Day events. 1.17.24.

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, Laurie Thomas teaches us how to identify the different maple species found in Kentucky. We also have a segment on lichens. 1.10.24.  

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn how to make 2024 the year you become a better naturalist and help take your nature game to the next level. We also have the next edition of our GIS and mapping series. 1.3.24. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn about some of the bird-themed gifts from the song 12 Days of Christmas. We also have a segment about foraging materials for the holidays. 12.13.23. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn how to successfully take a Christmas tree seedling and grow it into the trees of beauty that adorn so many Kentucky homes for the holidays. We also have our popular Tree of the Week segment. 12.6.23. 

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In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore that while we seem to encounter a new  invasive species every week, the US has also donated many species to other nations. Join us to learn which of our native species are causing headaches elsewhere. 11.29.23. 

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From the Woods Today

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate trees and all their benefits. We also discuss the role of birds in Thanksgiving traditions. Additionally, we give thanks to some of the forest products derived from trees as well as express gratitude for the water quality benefits of forests. 11.15.23.

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From the Woods Today

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we look at the status of white oak regeneration at the local, regional, and range-wide scales and discuss some of the implications of those results and the questions they raise for future research and management. We also have the second part of our mapping and GIS series. 11.8.23.

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From the Woods Today

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we talk about several natural disasters that have impacted the Midwest Region over the past several decades, showing what woodland owners could encounter in the future and how to prepare accordingly. In addition, we have our Tree of the Week segment. 11.1.23.

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From the Woods Today

This episode of From the Woods Today is a Halloween Special! Join us as Drs. Luke Dodd and Jonathan Larson share the history behind some of the popular creepy forestry tales and mysteries. 10.25.23.

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From the Woods Today

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate 100 years of UK's Robinson Forest as one of the premier research and education forests in the U.S. We also share some history and information about National Forest Products Week. 10.18.23.

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From the Woods Today

This episode of From the Woods Today is a Tree Week Special! Join us as we discuss checking your trees for insects, fall leaf color, and the Reforest the Bluegrass program. 10.11.23. 

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From the Woods Today

In this episode of From the Woods Today, Dr. McNeil discusses a few of the common birds that we can see during fall migration in the woods across Kentucky. We also have the first installment of a new series about mapping and geographic information systems (GIS). 10.4.23. 

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From the Woods Today

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we talk about what a vernal pool is, why they are important, and some techniques for restoring vernal pools that look and function like natural wetlands. We also have our monthly What's Bugging My Tree segment. 9.27.23. 

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From the Woods Today