Got Nature? Blog

The longer daylight period and the warming weather are bringing new life to woodlands. We have a community of native plants, called spring ephemerals, that grow, bloom, and produce seed quickly before the tree leaves emerge and the forest understory is wrapped in shade. Several of my favorite wildflowers are in this group, including hepaticas, trilliums, bloodroot, squirrel-corn, and trout lily.

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Walk through many forests in Indiana today, and you might not notice what is missing until you look up. Ash trees, once a common part of these woodlands, have rapidly disappeared due to the invasive emerald ash borer. Since its arrival in the early 2000’s, this small beetle has killed millions of ash trees across the state (Figure 1).

But what happens after ash trees are gone? Do new trees grow in their place, or do forests begin to change in unexpected ways?

To answer these questions, researchers revisited long-term forest monitoring plots across Indiana that were first established in the 1990s, before emerald ash borer was present. By comparing forest conditions before and after widespread ash mortality, we can begin to understand how these ecosystems are responding to one of the most destructive invasive forest pests in North America.

Even though young ash trees are still present in many forests, their numbers are dropping quickly (Figure 2). In some areas, ash seedlings have declined by more than 70 percent over the past decade. While a few saplings remain, very few are surviving long enough to replace the large trees that have been lost.

This suggests that ash is unlikely to return as a major component of Indiana forests anytime soon. As the remaining seeds in the soil are used up and fewer young trees survive, ash may become a much rarer species on the landscape.

As ash declines, other plant species are filling the gaps, but not always in the way we might expect.

Instead of fast-growing canopy trees taking over, many forests are becoming dominated by shade-tolerant species that thrive in low-light conditions. Native plants like spicebush and pawpaw are increasing in abundance, often forming dense layers in the understory. These species can make it difficult for other trees to establish and grow.

Sugar maple, another shade-tolerant species, remains common as seedlings but is not always successfully growing into larger trees. This creates a bottleneck where young trees are present, but few make it into the next stage of forest development.

At the same time, invasive plants are becoming more common in many forests following ash loss. Species such as bush honeysuckle and multiflora rose are increasing, especially in areas where ash trees have died.

These invasive plants can outcompete native vegetation, further limiting the ability of forests to regenerate diverse tree communities. Once established, they often persist and spread, creating additional challenges for forest management.

When large trees die, we might expect more sunlight to reach the forest floor, helping new trees grow. However, in many Indiana forests, the loss of ash is creating only small openings in the canopy rather than large gaps.

These smaller gaps favor shade-tolerant plants rather than species that need full sunlight to thrive. As a result, forests are gradually shifting toward communities dominated by shrubs and slow-growing, shade-adapted trees.

Ecologists often refer to this process as mesophication, a transition toward cooler, shadier, and more moisture-loving forest conditions. Over time, this can lead to forests that are more uniform and less diverse.

The loss of ash is more than just the disappearance of a single group of trees: it is part of a broader pattern of change driven by invasive species, altered disturbance patterns, and shifting forest conditions.

Without intervention, many forests may continue to develop dense understories dominated by a small number of species, including invasive plants. This can reduce tree diversity, limit wildlife habitat, and alter how forests function over time.

While forests are resilient and will continue to grow and change, they may look very different from those of the past.

Landowners, land managers, and the public all play a role in supporting healthy forests. Monitoring for invasive species, promoting a diversity of native trees, and managing dense understory growth can help improve forest regeneration.

As research continues, understanding how forests respond to the loss of species like ash will be critical for guiding conservation and management efforts in the years ahead.

Resources:
Planting Your Tree Part 1: Choosing Your Tree, Purdue Extension – Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Tree Planting Part 2: Planting a Tree, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Find a Certified Arborist, Trees are Good-International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
Video: Step by Step to Find an Arborist, Trees are Good-International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
Professional Forester, Indiana Forestry Woodland Owners Association
District Forester, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, 10+ acres
Trees and Storms – The Education Store
Why Is My Tree Dying? – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources
Tree Risk Management – The Education Store
Tree Pruning Essentials, Publication & Video, The Education Store
Tree Wound and Healing, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
What are Invasives Species and Why Should I Care?, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
New Hope for Fighting Ash Borer, Got Nature? Purdue Extension-FNR
Invasive Pest Species: Tools for Staging and Managing EAB in the Urban Forest, Got Nature?
Emerald Ash Borer, Purdue Extension-Entomology
Emerald Ash Borer, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA)
Emerald Ash Borer Invasion of North America: History, Biology, Ecology, Impacts, and Management, Daniel A. Herms, Deborah G. McCullough. 2014. Annual Review Entomology. 59:13-30
Emerald Ash Borer Tools & Resources – Purdue Extension Entomology
Subscribe – Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

Dr. Mike Jenkins, Forestry & Natural Resources Professor
Purdue Department of Forestry & Natural Resources

Dr. Mike Suanders, Professor of Ecology and Natural Resources
Purdue Department of Forestry & Natural Resources

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“Why is my tree starting to die just after I built my house?”

This is a common question following new construction. Typically, trees don’t die immediately from construction damage. It often takes several years for the symptoms to develop. Connecting today’s dying tree to the damage of a few years ago is difficult for homeowners to recognize and diagnose. So what actually kills trees in a formerly wooded lot turned into a subdivision or home lot? The words “formerly wooded” should be a clue.

After selectively clearing all but the best trees on the building site, landscape equipment such as bulldozers, skid steer loaders and excavators begin to grade the lot surface into a level, compacted plane. Building infrastructure, such as the foundation, utilities, walks and driveways, is cut into place for the site. As the building process occurs, several things may happen, none of which is good for trees.

Soil and Root System Changes
Oftentimes, the below ground damage to trees is the most significant and most difficult to diagnose and remedy. Even minor changes to the soil grade or soil profile can produce negative responses from trees. Whether removing or adding soil around the roots of trees, extreme caution is advised.

Undisturbed soils, such as those found in a forested area, are composed of layers, or horizons. The lop layer occupies the upper 6 inches to 12 inches and is rich in nutrients and organic matter. This is the soil component usually missing in new home construction because of the grading and leveling process. The topsoil is typically removed, stockpiled or used elsewhere in random areas around the site.

Important chemical processes take place in this topsoil/root layer that enable trees to absorb essential nutrients and water. If a tree is unable to obtain these in sufficient quantities, decline and, eventually, death will occur. This is typical on construction sites because disturbed soils lack good structure and composition.

Soil consists of various sized particles depending upon type and composition: sand, silt and clay. In addition to the solid parts of the soil, plants need open spaces between the particles. It is recommended that soils should contain at least 12 percent oxygen for good root growth.

The compaction from equipment running over the soil in the leveling process forces these spaces together, leaving as little as 2 to 4 percent of the necessary oxygen in the soil. Unfortunately, once the soil is ready for the home, sidewalk and driveway, it’s no longer suitable for root growth or tree survival.

A relatively flat, compacted surface is required to build a home. This is achieved by grading the existing soil surface. Large equipment is used to level and compact the soil to get the bulk density necessary to support the home or structure. Soil conditions required to support a house and the necessary infrastructure are different from, and in sharp contrast to, the soils of the formerly wooded lot. Undisturbed soils, such as those in a forest, are pliable and easily penetrated by the roots because needed open spaces or pores in the soil are filled with life supporting oxygen and water.

The excavation and grading processes create a “hard pan” and remove the valuable topsoil, leaving the remaining topsoil to be used for leveling and covering the lot. This subsoil usually is compacted, nutrient-poor and lacking pore space for water and oxygen, and not suitable for long-lasting, healthy trees.

Soil Grade Changes
One of the most common causes of decline in trees on the construction site is raising the grade or soil level around existing trees. “Filling” graded areas on the site raises the level of soil and covers the original soil. This causes damage to tree root systems by cutting off the oxygen supply, preventing gas exchange between soil and air. In addition, an existing tree grows accustomed to a certain amount of water it receives. Cutting or filling soil around a tree disrupts normal water flow and either deprives the tree of water or creates excessive soil moisture. Trees can decline and die with as little as 1 inch of clay-type soils added to the existing grade. So changing the level of soils around a tree and allowing these fill soils to touch the tree can be fatal!

Studies have shown that fill soil over the root system greatly reduces the root system. In a short time, roots begin to decay and die back, causing overall decline in the tree and significantly increasing the risk of tree failure. Often this type of root damage doesn’t reveal itself for several years. Symptoms may be observed, such as untimely fall color or declining and dying branches in the upper and outermost parts of the tree canopy.

Physical Damage
Careless operation of equipment around trees can cause severe damage to trees and compromise their future health. Any damage to the tree trunk can create conditions that affect health and safety.

Construction equipment can injure the aboveground and below ground parts of a tree by breaking branches, tearing the bark, wounding the trunk or cutting trunk flares and roots. These injuries are permanent and can kill a tree.

Root Cutting
Excavating for foundations and other structures on the site severs the roots of those chosen trees remaining on the site. Since a majority of a tree’s root system is found in the topsoil area, these building processes can be devastating.

Research indicates that a large portion of most tree roots grow in the upper 12 inches of the soil profile and can spread laterally up to 2 to 3 times the height of the tree. For example, the root system of a 50-foot shade tree can be found in a 150-foot circle around the trunk. Therefore, digging foundations, sidewalks or driveways drastically reduces important root structures of these carefully selected trees. Reducing the root system lessens a tree’s ability to absorb the water and nutrients that are essential for growth. This root loss also places additional stress on the tree as it tries to recover by using stored carbohydrate reserves, further weakening the tree and making it more susceptible to insects and disease.

Root cutting near a tree also reduces stability and increases risk to the owner. Research indicates if 40 percent of the roots are cut, the tree becomes 40 percent less stable, making it more susceptible to windthrow.

Trunk and Crown Damage
The vascular system of a tree lies just beneath the bark in an area called the cambium layer. This includes the water and food-conducting tissue known as the xylem and phloem. Any injury to the cambium layer on the trunk and branches creates a wound disrupting the flow of the conducting tissue. If the damage is severe enough, the tree can die. The affected area on the trunk or branches takes months to years to heal. In some tree species which don’t heal well, the wound may never close. In this time, fungi and other wood-decaying organisms can enter the tree. This decay can begin spreading to other parts of the tree, causing more health issues for the tree and risk for the owner.

Construction damage causes health and survival issues for trees and creates risk issues for people and the property around them. Tree damage above and below ground creates weaknesses in the tree structure and reduces its ability to withstand storms and other weather-related events.

So, why does the tree seem to decline and die within a few years of construction?

The answer is reduced health and inability to perform critical plant functions because of direct or indirect damage to the tree or its soil environment.

For example, as normal photosynthesis occurs, trees store carbohydrates for next year’s growth. If a tree was healthy and growing before construction, functions such as processing food for energy storage were in effect for the coming year. When that process and any other critical function is interrupted by root damage and soil changes, the tree begins to use up its food reserves and becomes unable to replace them. This drastically weakens the tree and predisposes it to other issues such as insect and disease infestations. Trees unable to continue their basic processes won’t function well and the result is gradual decline, dieback and death. Protecting trees now prevents problems in the future. Preservation is critical for those who would save existing trees on a construction site.

To prevent this type of tree damage during construction also refer to Purdue Extension publication FNR-463-W, Construction and Trees: Guidelines for Protection.

Resources:
Planting Your Tree Part 1: Choosing Your Tree, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Tree Planting Part 2: Planting a Tree, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Tree Installation: Process and Practices, The Education Store
Tree Pruning Essentials, The Education Store
Tree Pruning Essentials Video, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Drought Information​, Indiana Department of Natural Resources
Drought? Don’t forget the trees!, The Education Store
Tree Defect Identification, The Education Store
Tree Wound and Healing, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources
Surface Root Syndrome, The Education Store
Find an Arborist video, Trees are Good-International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
Trees and Storms – The Education Store, Purdue Education’s resource center
Indiana Invasive Species Council
ID That Tree, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel (Invasive White Mulberry, Siberian Elm, Tree of Heaven)
Fifty Common Trees of Indiana
An Introduction to Trees of Indiana
Native Trees of the Midwest, The Education Store
Subscribe – Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

Lindsey Purcell, Executive Director
Indiana Arborist Association

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Purdue Landscape Report: An unfortunate question I am sometimes asked is similar to this: “I lost my prized shade tree! What can I plant that will grow fast and give me shade?” While there is no instant fix to this scenario, let’s review a few trees that might be better choices here in northern Indiana.

One obstacle to consider is that many of the fast-growing trees are also fast-dying, meaning that, relatively speaking, they are not long-lived for trees. We’re already behind the 8-ball in our highly manipulated landscapes because we know that trees in landscapes tend to live much shorter lives than trees in their unmanipulated natural habitats.

That said, here are a few trees to consider. I would still encourage homeowners to invest some time in researching the trees that they are considering. There are pros and cons to almost every tree, and there isn’t room in this article to fully explore all the advantages and disadvantages of each tree. Additionally, I will not be getting into detail about all the cultivars available.

Let’s start with our state tree, the Tuliptree (a.k.a Tulip-poplar or Yellow-poplar). Tuliptrees can become quite large and offer a pretty yellow fall color. They prefer deep, rich, well-drained soils.

If maples are on your mind, a couple of options would be Red maple and Freeman maple (a hybrid cross of Silver maple and Red maple). Red maple has more moderate growth. The Freeman maple is a faster grower and has stronger wood than one of its parents, the Silver maple. These maples do best in well-drained, slightly acid soils, but will tolerate a variety of soil conditions.

Northern catalpa is a fast grower, but dealing with the fruit litter, a long seed pod, may be a deterrent for some locations. It has large, heart-shaped leaves. It would grow well in moist sites.

Common hackberry is a fast grower, but it is susceptible to galls on the leaves (from a n insect), and limbs can become susceptible to wind and ice damage. It tolerates a wide variety of soil conditions. Thornless honeylocust is widely adapted to different soil types. Honeylocusts in the wild produce large thorns. The Thornless honeylocust is adapted to landscapes and allows dappled sunlight to reach turfgrass, so that it thrives more than it would under a tree that provides heavy shade.

Sweetgum is also a fast-growing shade tree with brilliant fall colors. It has a star-shaped leaf. One drawback of sweetgum is the spiny seed capsule. This fallen fruit can make walking in the yard barefoot a painful experience.

Eastern cottonwood is the tree on record for the fastest growth rate of any tree native to the U.S. However, those with cottonwoods in their yard can tell you that the cottony seed mass shed in the spring sticks everywhere. It can be a mess. Plus, cottonwood can shed limbs frequently, especially after storms. This tree is commonly found along rivers and streams, so it not surprisingly prefers moist soils.

Also found along rivers and streams, American sycamore is a fast-growing tree in some landscapes. However, it can be a messy landscape tree, shedding bark, leaves, limbs, and fruit nearly year-round. The large fallen leaves can smother grass if not mowed or raked. It is also sensitive to a spring disease called anthracnose, which can cause defoliation and twig death.

Wild black cherry may be another good choice. Although it may not be available in some nurseries, it can be grown from seed. It prefers rich, moist, well-drained soils.

A couple of faster-growing oaks to consider are Pin oak and Northern red oak. Pin oak would be better suited to slightly wetter spots, while Red oak would work on a wider variety of soils, preferring rich, moist, well-drained sites. Pin oak is susceptible to iron chlorosis (yellowing leaves) on alkaline soils.

Finally, American basswood also prefers rich, moist, well-drained soils and is somewhat shade-tolerant. This tree can grow quite tall and provide excellent shade.

In your research, find out how large the tree you will be purchasing will get. One common planting mistake is locating trees too close to structures. Consider the mature size when placing it in the landscape.

Time your spring planting near Arbor Day, the last Friday in April.

Original article posted: Fast-Growing Trees for the Landscape.

Subscribe and receive the newsletter: Purdue Landscape Report Newsletter.

Resources:
Fifty Common Trees of Indiana
An Introduction to Trees of Indiana
Native Trees of the Midwest, The Education Store
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, The Education Store
Tree Installation: Process and Practices, The Education Store
Wildlife Habitat Hint YouTube Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR
Invasive Species YouTube Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR
Report Invasive Species, Purdue Invasive Species
Find an Arborist video, Trees are Good-International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
ID That Tree, Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube playlist
Purdue Plant and Pest Diagnostic Laboratory
Trees and Storms – The Education Store, Purdue Education’s resource center
Planting Your Tree, video, Purdue Extension
Subscribe Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

John Woodmansee, Extension Educator, Whitely County
Purdue Extension

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In this edition of ID That Tree, Purdue Extension Forester Lenny Farlee introduces us to dwarf chinkapin oak, an uncommon oak species found in far northern Indiana. Unlike many oaks that grow into large forest trees, this species often takes on a different form. Learn about the types of sites where dwarf chinkapin oak is typically found, how it compares to its relative the chinkapin oak and why it plays an important role in supporting wildlife. Whether you’re a student, landowner or simply curious about Indiana’s native trees and shrubs, this video offers a quick introduction to this unique and lesser-known oak species.

 

If you have any questions regarding wildlife, trees, forest management, wood products, natural resource planning or other natural resource topics, feel free to contact us by using our Ask an Expert web page.

Resources:
ID That Tree – Video Playlist, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Purdue Arboretum Explorer
Conservation Tree Planting: Steps to Success, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
A Woodland Management Moment, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Fifty Common Trees of Indiana, Purdue Extension – FNR
Indiana Invasive Species Council
Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA)
Report Invasive, Purdue Extension
Habitat University, Episode 12 – Exploring the challenges of Invasive Species, Habitat University-Natural Resource University
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Native Trees of the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Professional Forester, Indiana Forestry Woodland Owners Association
District Forester, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, 10+ acres
Find an Arborist, International Society of Arboriculture
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store

Lenny Farlee, Extension Forester
Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center
Purdue Department of Forestry & Natural Resources

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Join Purdue Extension forester Lenny Farlee in this episode of “A Woodland Management Moment” as he discusses the benefits of using windbreak plantings around hardwood tree plantations. Using a black walnut planting as an example, this episode introduces how windbreaks can influence early growth, protection and overall tree form. The video also connects windbreaks to broader planting strategies and long-term management objectives. Watch to learn how thoughtful plantation design can support both tree performance and woodland management goals.

 

A good resource to learn more is the Walnut Council website. Founded in 1970, the Walnut Council is an international association representing nearly 700 woodland owners, foresters, forest scientists, and wood-producing industry representatives in 45 states and three foreign countries. The purpose is to assist in the technical transfer of forest research to field applications, help build and maintain better markets for wood products and nut crops, and to promote sustainable forest management, conservation, reforestation, and utilization of American black walnut (Juglans nigra) and other high quality fine hardwoods.

If you have any questions regarding trees, forests, wildlife, wood products, or other natural resource topics, feel free to contact us by using our Ask an Expert web page.

Resources:
A Woodland Management Moment, Playlist, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Explore the Rich World of Oaks with Purdue FNR Extension & Partners, Purdue Extension – FNR Got Nature? Blog
Conservation Tree Planting: Steps to Success, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
It’s Not Too Late to Order Trees for Spring Planting, Purdue Extension – FNR Got Nature? Blog
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Native Trees of the Midwest, Purdue University Press
ID That Tree, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Investing in Indiana Woodlands, The Education Store
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners Video Series, Playlist, Indiana Department of Natural Resources YouTube Channel
District Forester, Indiana DNR Division of Forestry, for over 10 acres of woodlands
Professional Forester, Indiana Forestry & Woodland Owners Association (IFWOA)
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Purdue Arboretum Explorer

Lenny Farlee, Extension Forester
Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center
Purdue Department of Forestry & Natural Resources

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We are now on the other side of the equinox, and while the days are getting longer again, we are beset with Midwest snows and icy temperatures that could persist to the beginning of Spring in March. During this time, there is a likely chance of a “tug-of-war” between our current cold weather and intermittent warm spells, and it’s a good time to check on your trees, especially newly transplanted trees and species with thinner bark.

As you head outdoors, what you might notice are signs of damage to your trees that include splits or cracks that could range in size from less than 1” to up to the entire length of the main stem and/or sunken areas on the trunk (Figs. 1 & 2). What you’re witnessing is winter stem damage known as sunscald or southwest damage (usually located on south to southwest-facing sides of the tree).

So, what is southwest damage and why has your tree been affected by it?  It’s a wound that’s opened during winter due to sudden drops in temperature. These drops can come from different instances like the change from day to night or even from sudden cloud cover on a sunny day. The sun warms the trunk on the south to southwest faces of the tree, then the temperature change causes the bark to split. Repeated instances eventually cause dehydration of the damaged area which causes scalding.

Southwest damage comes from a previously sustained injury and will likely be found on younger trees or species with thin bark including Acer spp., Betula spp., Malus spp., Platanus spp., Prunus spp., and Ulmus spp. If these trees are also stressed, for example, from the dryer hotter summers we’ve been experiencing or other factors, they will be more vulnerable to damage moving into winter months.

As your trees grow and become more established, chances of damage decrease. Install white tree guards in Fall on trees less than 4” to help protect them during the winter. Those of you that are ahead of the game in your tree protection will have already done this last year to help prevent southwest damage (and damage from deer rub if you installed them in the fall before the rut). I commend you on your efforts, but make sure not to leave them on year-round. As things begin to heat up those covers can be a source of moisture retention which can lead to rot on the trunk of your tree. Plan on removing them as Spring sets in and save them for next Fall.

If cracking has already occurred, don’t panic. It’s not the end of your tree. Depending on the extent of the damage the tree may be able to seal off the damage with callus tissue called wound wood (Fig. 4). Healthier trees can produce this more quickly. Some things you can do to assist your tree include the following:

• Putting your tree on a watering schedule (especially in the summer) to reduce water and heat stress.
• Mulching your tree (no mulch volcanoes) can help stop mechanical damage from mowing and other lawn maintenance and can also help with water retention in the soil.
• Herbicide use should be limited and done on days with little to no wind to help reduce drift onto the tree.
• Plan on installing white tree guards mid to late Fall. I like the white corrugated drainpipes you can find at local home and garden stores. Make sure to get a diameter larger than you tree to provide airflow to the trunk.

If you are still worried about the health of your tree, you can always find an ISA Certified Arborist nearby using the Trees Are Good website. They will be able to help assess any other issues and provide excellent professional help.

Resources:
The Purdue Landscape Report
Find an Arborist video, Trees are Good, International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
Equipment Damage to Trees, Got Nature? Blog
Tree wounds and healing, Got Nature? Blog
Tree Defect Identification, The Education Store, Purdue Extension resource center
Tree Pruning Essentials, Publication & Video, The Education Store
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, The Education Store
Tree Risk Management, The Education Store
Why Is My Tree Dying? – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources
ID That Tree, Purdue Extension-Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube playlist
Subscribe to Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

Ben McCallister, Urban Forestry Specialist
Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources

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Are you a woodland owner who is just beginning to explore forest regeneration, restoration and reforestation activities?

The Human Dimensions Lab at the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources with Purdue University is conducting research to understand private landowners’ perspectives on regeneration, restoration and reforestation. Private forest and woodland owners are key partners in forest and vegetation management efforts across the United States. These activities may involve tree planting, restoration of native vegetation or other practices aimed at enhancing forest and vegetation cover on private lands. Various federal, state and local programs offer financial and technical assistance to support these efforts and understanding landowner perspectives is important for informing future research and outreach.

About the Research
As part of a collaborative research effort involving multiple universities and the U.S. Forest Service, the Purdue University research team is working directly with private forest landowners to better understand real‑world experiences with regeneration, restoration and revegetation.

Specifically, the research aims to:

• Better understand the opportunities and barriers that landowners face when considering or engaging in regeneration, restoration or revegetation activities, including participation in assistance programs.
• Explore how assistance programs can better align with landowner values, needs and goals.

By learning directly from landowners, especially those who are in the early stages of exploring these activities, the researchers hope to generate insights that can improve the design and delivery of support programs in the future.

Who Can Participate?
The research team is currently recruiting forest and woodland owners who have recently begun exploring regeneration, restoration or reforestation topics and are willing to share their perspectives.

Participation may include an interview or focus group discussion, depending on participant preference and availability. All participation is entirely voluntary.

Why Participate?
By sharing your experiences, questions and thoughts, you can help researchers and land management agencies better understand what works, what doesn’t and what support landowners truly need. Your insights can contribute to more effective, landowner‑centered programs that support forest and woodland stewardship on private lands.

Learn More or Get Involved
If you are interested in participating, have questions about the research, would like to share feedback or know others who may be interested, please reach out before March 15 and visit the Landowners: Share Your Insight form provided by the Purdue Human Dimensions Lab.

Contact Information:
Primary: Katherine Pivaral, Ph.D. Student
Department of Forestry & Natural Resources, Purdue University
Email: kpivaral@purdue.edu

Dr. Zhao Ma, Professor
Department of Forestry & Natural Resources, Purdue University
Email: zhaoma@purdue.edu

FNR looks forward to learning from and collaborating with forest and woodland owners to better understand how regeneration, restoration and reforestation efforts can support both landowners and the landscapes they steward.

Katherine Pivaral, Ph.D. Student
Department of Forestry & Natural Resources, Purdue University

Resources:
Appalachian State University
Michigan State University
University of Massachusetts – Amherst
U.S. Forest Service
Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (HEE)
Hardwood Tree Improvement & Regeneration Center (HTIRC)
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Managing Your Woods for White-Tailed Deer, The Education Store
Deer Impact Toolbox, Purdue Extension
Virtual Tour Brings Forest Management for Birds to Life, Got Nature? Blog Post, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Silvics Succession Management Webinar, Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel
Subscribe: Deer, Forest Management, ID That Tree, Woodland Management Moment, Invasive Species and many other topic video playlists Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

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USDA – U.S. Forest Service: There’s a new resource for teachers and kids in this month’s National Research Digest from USDA Forest Service Research. Read how Woodsy Owl and agency scientists lend a hand and care for the land with a journal for learners of all ages.

The Woodsy Owl edition examines research on a variety of topics including how climate change affects owls in the Southwest, research on visitors to natural and landscaped areas in urban parks, how scientists identify characteristics of fisher habitats, and how forest planting decisions affect wildlife habitat for certain species. This journal also features sections where Woodsy Owl will share some ways that you can “Lend a Hand” and “Care for the Land.” You and your students can be a part of conserving our natural resources, protecting our environment, and enjoying all that nature has to offer!

This is a valuable educational tool that’s an engaging way for educators to use in teaching, making environmental research accessible to all ages and learning practical ways to make a difference.

Keep up with more research and news by subscribing to the USDA Forest Service National Research Digest.

Resources:
Creating a Wildlife Habitat Management Plan for Landowners, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
A Template for Your Wildlife Habitat Management Plan, The Education Store
What a Waste of Food!, lesson plans, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Common Indiana Mammals: Natural History and Identification Sneak Peak Video, Nature of Teaching
Food Waste Lesson Plans, Nature of Teaching
The Nature of Teaching, YouTube channel
Conservation Tree Planting: Steps to Success – webinar, Purdue Extension-Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Planting Forest Trees and Shrubs in Indiana (pdf), located on The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Planting and Care of Fine Hardwood Seedlings (pdf), located on The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Managing Woodlands for Birds Video, Purdue Extension-Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Developing a Wildlife Habitat Management Plan, The Education Store
Subscribe to Purdue Extension-Forestry & Natural Resources YouTube Channel, Wildlife Playlist

Diana Evans, Extension & Web Communications Specialist
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources

U.S. Department of Agriculture – Forest Service Research & Development

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As the snow flies and the temperature drops, there are still some activities that we can do to remind us that spring is on the way. One of those is planning for tree planting. The Indiana DNR Division of Forestry operates a nursery system that provides tree and shrub seedlings to Indiana landowners. The seedlings are intended for conservation plantings for purposes like wildlife habitat, erosion control, windbreaks, and reforestation plantings. The state nursery also provides Select black walnut, red oak, white oak and black cherry seedlings for those interested in growing trees for timber. These seedlings are a result of tree breeding programs at the Division of Forestry and Purdue University. Seedlings are mostly bare-root one and two year old stock intended for spring planting. Seedlings are still available for purchase from the state nursery system. You can find ordering and contact information for the state nursery at Instructions for Ordering Tree Seedlings.

There are also several private nursery options for ordering tree seedlings in Indiana. The private nurseries may be able to offer species, sizes, and quantities of seedlings not available from the state, and can also sell trees for non-conservation purposes like landscaping and Christmas trees. The National Nursery and Seed Directory provided by the USDA Forest Service provides a directory of seed and plant sources across the region.

When planting trees and shrubs, be sure to check the suitability of your site for the species of plants you plan to use. Long-lived woody plants need to be on sites well-suited to their growth for good long-term results. You can consult the Web Soil Survey for maps and information covering the soil types on your property. You can also consult forestry and conservation professionals for advise and assistance. Purdue Extension offers several resources for planning your tree planting including publications and upcoming workshops. Check out upcoming events: Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) Events.

So, take some time while the snow is falling to make plans for a warm spring day of tree planting.

Resources:
Instructions for Ordering Tree Seedlings, Indiana DNR Division of Forestry
National Nursery and Seed Directory, USDA Forest Service
Conservation Tree Planting: Steps to Success – webinar, Purdue Extension-Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Web Soil Survey, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Deer Impact, Purdue Extension Pond & Wildlife
Planting Forest Trees and Shrubs in Indiana (pdf), located on The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Planting and Care of Fine Hardwood Seedlings (pdf), located on The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Importance of Hardwood Tree Planting , The Education Store
Designing Hardwood Tree Plantings for Wildlife, The Education Store
Resources and Assistance Available for Planting Hardwood Seedlings, The Education Store
Creating a Wildlife Habitat Management Plan for Landowners, The Education Store
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
How to Build a Plastic Mesh Deer Exclusion Fence, The Education Store
ID That Tree, Purdue Extension-Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube playlist
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Purdue Extension – FNR Extension YouTube Playlist
Woodland Management Moment, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Playlist

Lenny Farlee, Extension Forester
Hardwood Tree Improvement & Regeneration Center (HTIRC)
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources

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