Got Nature? Blog

Purdue Landscape Report: We are often the bearers of bad news when a new exotic insect species is discovered in Indiana. This time, however, we have some good news to share. Agrilus smaragdifrons, a beetle that feeds exclusively on Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), was detected in Indiana last year in Allen County.

Figure 1. Agrilus smaragdifrons adult (Photograph by Dave Eib, iNaturalist)

You might notice that this beetle belongs to the same genus as the infamous Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis) (EAB). Indeed, the two species look quite similar, although there are subtle differences in their striking metallic coloration. While Emerald Ash Borer is a vibrant green from head to wing, A. smaragdifrons has a golden-red head and thorax with green to black-green wings (Fig. 1).

This beetle has been present in the United States for several years, with the earliest record dating back to 2011 from a photograph taken in New Jersey that was uploaded to BugGuide.net. Subsequent detections occurred in several neighboring eastern states, often as bycatch during Emerald Ash Borer surveys (Hoebeke et al. 2017).

The life cycle of A. smaragdifrons also shares many similarities with Emerald Ash Borer. Although its life cycle under North American conditions has not yet been formally described, Hoebeke et al. (2017) summarize the beetle’s biology in its native Asian range based on Chinese literature (Xu and Yang 2007).

Figure 2. Agrilus smaragdifrons exit holes in Ailanthus altissima (Photograph by Patrick Perish, iNaturalist)

Females lay eggs in bark crevices during mid- to late summer, and newly hatched larvae burrow into the tree. The larvae overwinter within galleries beneath the bark and resume feeding the following spring. Pupation occurs in early summer, around June, and adult mating flights take place from June through July. When adults emerge, they leave characteristic “D”-shaped exit holes in the bark (Fig. 2; Photograph by Patrick Perish, iNaturalist).

It is not yet known whether A. smaragdifrons will function as a biological control agent for Tree-of-Heaven. Additional research and field observations are needed to determine its impact on its host. However, reports from Beijing Forestry University indicate that attacks by A. smaragdifrons can lead to decline and eventual death of Tree-of-Heaven (Hoebeke et al. 2017).

Scientists with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and Purdue University are interested in tracking the distribution of A. smaragdifrons across the state. The next time you encounter a Tree-of-Heaven, keep an eye out for the distinctive D-shaped exit holes. In late summer, you may also observe adults feeding on the leaves.

See something? Report it Identifying and Reporting Pests at just as you would any other invasive species!

Original article posted: Beetle that attacks Tree-of-Heaven found in Indiana.

Subscribe and receive the newsletter: Purdue Landscape Report Newsletter.

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

MyDNR, Indiana’s Outdoor Newsletter: The Division of Law Enforcement is looking for highly motivated, outdoor-centered individuals to fill Conservation Officer positions across the state.

DNR’s Law Enforcment officers in training. Photo by: Indiana Department of Natural Resources

Anyone interested should first read “Become a Conservation Officer” at on.IN.gov/ico-hiring and complete the pre-screening test under the “Apply” link. Successful completion of the pre-screening test will automatically enter you into the hiring process.

To be qualified to pass the pre-screening test, you must be a United States citizen and be 21 years old by Oct. 30. You also must be able to pass the new Physical Agility Test, which is the new fitness standard for all Law Enforcement in the state starting Aug. 1. The website listed above also contains a video demonstrating the Physical Agility Test, course diagram and testing protocols.

Conservation officers comprise Indiana’s oldest state law enforcement agency. ICOs are fully recognized Indiana police officers who enforce and uphold all DNR rules and regulations as well as all other Indiana state laws. ICOs spend most of their time on the job enforcing fishing and hunting regulations, conducting marine boat patrol on Indiana’s waterways, and patrolling DNR properties to keep them safe and family friendly.

In addition to traditional law enforcement work, ICOs also engage in specialty areas, including scuba, K-9, search and rescue, swift water rescue and many more.

For more information, visit the DNR hiring for Indiana Conservation Officer positions webpage.

More Resources:
Hunting Guide, Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IN DNR)
MyDNR Newsletter, IN DNR
Wild Bulletin Newsletter, IN DNR
Fishing Guide, IN DNR
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
Wildlife Habitat Hint: Trail Camera Tips and Tricks, Got Nature? Blog
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Designing Hardwood Tree Plantings for Wildlife – The Education Store
ID That Tree – YouTube Playlist
How to Score Your White-tailed Deer, video, The Education Store, Purdue Extension Resource Center
White-Tailed Deer Post Harvest Collection, video, The Education Store
Age Determination in White-tailed Deer, video, The Education Store
How to Build a Plastic Mesh Deer Exclusion Fence, The Education Store
Forest Management for Reptiles and Amphibians: A Technical Guide for the Midwest, The Education Store
Ask the Expert: Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment – Birds and Salamander Research, Purdue Extension – FNR
A Template for Your Wildlife Habitat Management Plan, The Education Store
Managing Your Woods for White-Tailed Deer, The Education Store

Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IN DNR)

In this edition of ID That Tree, Purdue Extension Forester Lenny Farlee introduces us to Shumard oak, a native oak species found in parts of Indiana. While it is sometimes confused with other oaks, including northern red oak, this species has key characteristics that set it apart. Learn where Shumard oak is typically found, how it fits into Indiana’s woodland landscapes and what to look for when distinguishing it from similar plants. This video provides a helpful introduction to identifying Shumard oak whether you’re a student, landowner or just interested in better understanding the trees around you.

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

Indiana joined 22 other states in 2025 when it launched its state-level Certified Prescribed Burn Manager (CPBM) Program. This program resulted from HB-1557, which went into effect on July 1, 2025. For more information about the new prescribed fire law in Indiana and what it means for burners, check out the Indiana Prescribed Burn Law Factsheet.

This article will walk through the steps to complete all stages of the program. The Indiana DNR CPBM Policy can be viewed by visiting the Indiana Prescribed Fire Council website.

The CPBM program consists of three parts:

• Online Training
• In-Person Training
• Prescribed Burn Experience

Indiana CPBM Requirements At-a-glance

1. Online Training
   1. S-130
   2. S-190
   3. L-180
   4. IS-100
2. In-Person Training
   1. S-130 Field Day (no pack test requirement)
   2. Indiana DNR Prescribed Fire for Managers
3. Burn Experience (Minimum of 5 total burns for experience)
   1. Participate in 5 prescribed fires
   2. At least 3 in woodland at least 1 in grassland
   3. Ben an Apprentice Burn Manager for 2 burns
   4. 1 woodland and 1 grassland burn
4. Paperwork and Documentation
   1. IN CPBM Application
   2. IN CPBM Experience Log
   3. IN CPBM Task Book
   4. Burn Plans for Apprentice Burns

Online Training Requirements

The online training required for the CPBM program includes many of the same courses as are necessary for Basic Wildland Firefighting.

• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
• L-180 Human Factors on the Fireline I
• S-100 Introduction to the Incident Command System

These are self-paced, free online courses available through FEMA, the National Fire Academy (NFA), and the Wildland Fire Learning Portal.

• FEMA – IS-100
• National Fire Academy Registration Page – S-130, S-190, L-180
• Wildland Fire Learning Portal – S-130, S-190, L-180

*Before taking any courses through FEMA or registering for the NFA, you need to obtain a FEMA SID#. You can do that at FEMA: Student Identification System.

In-Person Training Requirements

The two requirements for in-person training are:

• S-130 Field Day (1-day; no pack test required)
• Indiana DNR Prescribed Fire for Managers (2-day)

How to complete the in-person training?
In-person S-130 Field Days and Indiana DNR Prescribed Fire for Managers courses are offered 1-2 times per year, often offered in the spring (Feb-Mar) and in December.

*To take the S-130 Field Day, you need to complete the required online training before the field day. To take the Prescribed Fire for Managers Course, you need to take the S-130 Field Day.

You can find information about upcoming trainings by visiting the Indiana Prescribed Fire Council (INPFC) website and the Indiana DNR Fire Headquarters Training Portal.

Prescribed Burn Experience

To be an Indiana CPBM, you need the following prescribed fire experience:

• Participate in 5 prescribed fires across the 2 major fuel model groups in Indiana (grass and hardwood timber litter)
  • At least 3 of the burns shall be in the hardwood timber litter fuel model
• Serve as an Apprentice Burn Manager on 2 of the 5 prescribed burns – 1 from each of the two fuel model groups (grass and timber litter)

Serving as an “Apprentice Burn Manager” means you need to lead burns under the guidance of an existing CPBM, RxB1, or RxB2 (RxB1 & RxB2 are Burn Boss qualifications through the National Wildfire Coordinating Group) and complete a Certified Prescribed Burn Manager Task Book related to preparing for and managing a prescribed burn.

How do I receive prescribed fire experience?

To get experience as a crew member on prescribed fires, here are a few steps:

• Meet Common Training Requirements: Many organizations (but not all) require burn crews to have basic wildland fire training courses, many of which are needed for the CPBM program. Having these trainings will open the door for more opportunities.
  • Basic Wildland Firefighter (FFT2) Requirements (bolded are required for CPBM)
    • S-130 (Online and Field Day)
    • S-190
    • L-180
    • IS-100
    • IS-700B
    • Arduous Work Capacity Test (Pack Test)
• Attend a Learn-N-Burn: these half- or full-day events can help you get your feet wet with prescribed fire and are offered by groups like the Indiana DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife and Purdue Extension. Generally, prior experience or training is not required for these events.
  • Upcoming Learn-N-Burns can be found under Events on the INPFC events website.
• Find Volunteer Opportunities: Many organizations accept volunteers for prescribed fire, but may require Basic Wildland Firefighter Training (see above).
  • Volunteer on burns with The Nature Conservancy
    • To be a TNC fire volunteer, you need to be a FFT2 or complete the Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RxCM) standard, which is similar to FFT2 standards but does not require IS-700 and requires a moderate pack test. View the TNC Fire Manual for more information.
  • To learn more about helping TNC on prescribed burns, contact Stuart Orr, Indiana Fire Program Manager at sorr@tnc.org.
• Volunteer with your Local Land Trust
  • Indiana is home to over 20 land trusts, many of which utilize prescribed fire.
  • Each land trust may have different requirements to volunteer for prescribed fire.
  • Visit the Discover Your Land Trust page on the Indiana Land Protection Alliance website to find a land trust in your area.
• Find landowners in your area who are using prescribed fire and volunteer to help
  • Several landowners across Indiana use prescribed fire and may be seeking help.
    • You may be able to find landowners who burn through existing conservation networks, such as local NGOs (NWTF, NDA, PF, or QF Chapters) or landowner groups such as the Indiana Forest and Woodland Owners Association.
  • Join or start a Prescribed Burn Association, which is a collection of landowners who help each other burn by pooling resources, equipment, knowledge, and crew through a “Neighbor Helping Neighbor” model.

How do I receive apprentice burn manager fire experience?

The first step in finding opportunities is building relationships with current prescribed fire practitioners. By volunteering as a crew member, you start to learn about prescribed fire and build relationships with existing burn managers. This may lead to opportunities to apprentice in the future.

The Indiana Prescribed Fire Council is piloting a Prescribed Fire Opportunity Sharing Network to help connect those seeking burn experience with experienced burners. You can use the links below to sign up for this network as either a Mentor (have experience) or Mentee/Apprentice (need experience). Register on the Mentor sign-up or the Mentee sign-up.

Resources:
FNR Ask The Expert: Prescribed Fire, Purdue Extension Forestry & Natural Resources
100 Year Project Shares New Video, Prescribed Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR Got Nature? Blog
Brooke’s Prescribed Fire Videos Utilized in Global USFS Efforts, Purdue Extension – FNR Got Nature? Blog
Prescribed fire: 6 things to consider before you ignite, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – 4Forestry and Natural Resources
Wildlife Habitat Hint: Prescribed Fire Techniques – Backing Fire, Video, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube channel
Wildlife Habitat Hint: Prescribed Fire Techniques – Flanking Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR Video
Wildlife Habitat Hint: Prescribed Fire Techniques – Strip Head Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR Video
Wildlife Habitat Hints: Prescribed Fire Techniques – Ring Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR Video
Wildlife Habitat Hints: Prescribed Fire Techniques – Point Source Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR Video
Wildlife Habitat Hint: Late Growing Season Prescribed Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR Video
FNR Ask The Expert: Prescribed Fire with Jarred Brooke and Mike Saunders, Purdue Extension – FNR Video
Indiana Prescribed Fire Council
Renovating Native Warm-Season Grass Stands for Wildlife: A Land Manager’s Guide, The Education Store, Purdue Extension resource center

Jarred Brooke, Wildlife Extension Specialist
Purdue Department of Forestry and Natural Resources

Attention teachers! If you’re interested in bringing real-world natural resources learning into their classrooms, you now have the opportunity to apply for the 2026 Indiana Natural Resources Teacher Institute (NRTI). Registration is officially open and applications are due March 31, 2026. The NRTI is a week-long, immersive professional development workshop designed to equip teachers with the knowledge, skills, and tools to effectively teach forest ecology, forest management, and natural resource science. Cohosted by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Purdue University Forestry and Natural Resources Extension, the institute blends classroom-ready training with hands-on field experiences.

The 2026 institute will take place June 15–19, beginning at 1 p.m. on Monday and concluding at noon on Friday. Participants will stay at the Forestry Training Center at Morgan-Monroe State Forest near Martinsville, where meals and lodging are provided.

Throughout the week, educators will:

• Tour public and private forest lands, forest industry facilities, and forestry research sites
• Learn from natural resource professionals, researchers, and industry leaders
• Explore how sustainable forestry supports Indiana’s environment, economy, and quality of life
• Develop a curriculum project to implement with their students

There is no cost to attend. Accepted applicants (up to 18 educators) pay a refundable $50 deposit, returned at the end of the program.

To explore program details, visit the Indiana Natural Resources Teacher Institute webpage.

Resources:
Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources Facebook Page
Project Learning Tree
Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry
The Nature of Teaching, Purdue Department of Forestry and Natural Resources
The Nature of Teaching: Trees of the Midwest, The Education Store
The Nature of Teaching: Adaptations for Aquatic Amphibians, The Education Store
Trees of the Midwest Webinar, Nature of Teaching YouTube channel
Indiana Forestry Educational Foundation, Indiana Forestry & Woodland Owners Association
Forest/Timber, Playlist, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel
Natural Resources Teacher Institute Takes Forestry to the Classroom, Purdue FNR News
Purdue Extension

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

In this webinar hosted by Purdue University Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources and the Hardwood Tree Improvement & Regeneration Center (HTIRC), Extension Forester Lenny Farlee introduces the fundamentals of tree silvics and forest succession, the biological foundation of forest management. The presentation explores how tree species’ life histories and ecological growth influence forest development and management outcomes.

Topics include definitions of silvics, shade tolerance, regeneration strategies, disturbance (such as fire and wind) and how different species respond to environmental conditions over time. The webinar provides a clear foundation for understanding forest ecology and applying that knowledge to sustainable management and conservation.

Check out the Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel for more videos and webinars covering urban and forestry management, woodlands and wildlife.

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

Join Purdue Extension forester Lenny Farlee in this episode of “A Woodland Management Moment” as he talks about planting density when thinking about hardwood tree plantation. In an earlier video, we discussed higher density plantings for timber productions. In this video, we’ll continue that conversation and talk about planting with wide spacing specifically for nut production. This episode explores these nut producing species like black walnut, their growth in the forests and what that means for woodland management decisions. Watch the video to learn about opportunities, challenges and considerations for balancing growth rates with high quality output.

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
The Nature of Oaks Webinar, Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel, Shared from Indiana Forestry & Woodland Owners Association
Conservation Tree Planting: Steps to Success, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
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
Ask an Expert: Tree Selection and Planting, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Find an Indiana Professional Forester, Indiana Forestry & Woodland Owners Association (IFWOA)
Purdue Arboretum Explorer

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

Purdue Extension is proud to share the 2025 Impact Report, a showcase of the people, programs, and partnerships driving stronger, more resilient communities across Indiana. This year’s report highlights how research from Purdue’s College of Agriculture is being put into action, from addressing the spread of tar spot in corn, to monitoring invasive species, to supporting farmers navigating concerns around Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (bird flu).

Here is a quick snapshot of the great articles and information you will find:

• Saving One of Indiana’s Top Crops From Tar Spots
• 4-H Tech Changemakers Lead the Way in AI
• Teaching Small Steps to Achieve Healthier Lives
• Strengthening Financial Security Through Tax Preparation and Education
• Uniting Indiana Residents Against Invasive Species
  Highlighting Lenny Farlee, Extension forester, and Henry Quesada, professor and assistant director of Extension. Check out all of our FNR resources listed below. 
• Supporting Childcare Providers to Create Stronger Communities
• Emergency Preparedness and Response to Highly Pathogenic Avian Flu
• Making the Best Better: Strengthening Teen Leadership Skills
• Check out program impacts

Explore the full report to see how Extension is making a difference statewide and beyond: Purdue Extension Impact Report 2025.

Resources:
What are Invasive Species and Why Should I Care?, Purdue Extension – Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) Blog
Woodland Management Moment: Invasive Species Control Process, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Asian Bush Honeysuckle, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Burning Bush, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Callery Pear, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Multiflora Rose, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Invasive Plants Threaten Our Forests Part 1: Invasive Plant Species Identification
Aquatic Invasive Species, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG)
Indiana Invasive Species Council
Emerald Ash Borer Information Network, Purdue University and Partners
The GLEDN Phone App – Great Lakes Early Detection Network
EDDMaps – Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System
1-866 No EXOTIC (1-866-663-9684)
depp@dnr.IN.gov – Email Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
A Woodland Management Moment, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Subscribe to Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel YouTube channel
Nature of Teaching, Purdue College of Agriculture
Community Development, Purdue Extension

Purdue Extension

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