Got Nature? Blog

Explore the latest newsletter updates on the Indiana Woodland Steward website. Stay up-to-date with forestry news and receive their free e-newsletter by subscribing at IWS Subscribe.

Highlights from the new Newsletter include:

• Ticks in Indiana Woodlands: Identification, Risk Reduction, and Prevention
  By Lee Green
  “Indiana’s forests, woodlots, and edge habitats support a diverse tick fauna that matters to both human and animal health. As reforestation has increased and wildlife hosts, especially white‑tailed deer, have…”
• How Emerging Digital Forestry Technologies Can Support Indiana Landowners
  By Erica Kronenberger and Zhao Ma
  Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University
  “Indiana is home to more than 4.8 million acres of forestland, of which 4.6 million acres are timberland, and this amount increases every year1. Eighty four percent of Indiana’s forests is…”
• Prescribed Burn Associations: Neighbors Helping Neighbors Bring Fire Back to Indiana’s Landscape
  By Danielle Howard
  “Indiana’s ecosystems are shaped by fire. And to help them thrive, we need to bring fire back. But how do we re-ignite…”
• Tree of Heaven, Ailanthus altissima
  By Lenny Farlee, Ron Rathfon, Don Carlson, Brian Beheler
  “Tree-of-heaven (ToH), also known as Chinese sumac, varnish tree, or stink tree, is a large, rapidly-growing deciduous tree native to parts of China. Tree-of-heaven was introduced …”
• Days Gone By Volumn 35 Number 2
  Constructing a corn crib from native hardwoods on Mr. Herbert C. Thomas’ property in Vermillion County (photos by Roy C. Brundage, undated).

The Indiana Woodland Steward Newsletter is a resource offering a wealth of valuable information for foresters, woodland owners, timber marketing specialists, woodland and wildlife enthusiasts. The Indiana Woodland Steward Institute (IWS) is an entity made from 11 organizations within the state including Purdue University, Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen’s Association (IHLA), that works to promote best usage practices of Indiana’s woodland resources through their Woodland Steward publication.

Resources
Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (HEE) website
Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment – Wildlife Responses to Timber Harvesting, Purdue Extension
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store
Managing Your Woods for White-Tailed Deer, The Education Store
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Virtual Tour Brings Forest Management for Birds to Life, Got Nature? Blog Post, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Breeding Birds and Forest Management: the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment and the Central Hardwoods Region, The Education Store
Deer Impact Toolbox, Purdue Extension
Grassland Management Series, Purdue Extension Pond and Wildlife Management
Birdfeeder tips, The National Audubon Society
Explore the Rich World of Oaks with Purdue FNR Extension & Partners, Purdue Extension – FNR
Managing Woodlands for Birds Video, Purdue Extension-Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel
Subscribe: Deer, Forest Management, ID That Tree, Woodland Management Moment, Invasive Species and many other topic video playlists Purdue Extension-Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

Dan McGuckin, President
Indiana Woodland Steward

Dr. Brian MacGowan, Extension Wildlife Specialist
Department of Forestry & Natural Resources, Purdue University

Fall Hunting and Fishing Licenses on Sale
MyDNR, Indiana’s Outdoor Newsletter: Whether you’re gearing up to hunt, fish, or simply enjoy the outdoors this season, now’s the perfect time to prepare. Check out the IN DNR Sport License webpage as you will find information for:

• Deer
• Turkey
• Small Game
• Upland Game
• Migratory Birds
• Bobcats

New DNR Hunting, Fishing and Trapping License Mobile App Now Available
The GoOutdoorsIN mobile app launched in early July and is ready to download. It’s free and available for Android and iOS. With the app, you can purchase a license, check in your harvest, view your order history and active privileges and edit your customer account information from your smartphone.

When searching in the app stores, search “GoOutdoorsIN” so that the app pops to the top of the search results. You can also find it in the official DNR app.

Resources:
Hybrid Striped Bass Farmed Fish Fact Sheet, The Education Store
Largemouth Bass Farmed Fish Fact Sheet, The Education Store
Seafood Basics: A Toolkit for Understanding Seafood, Nutrition, Safety and Preparation, and Sourcing, The Education Store
Walleye Farmed Fish Fact Sheet, Eat Midwest Fish
Rainbow Trout Farmed Fish Fact Sheet, The Education Store
A Guide to Small-Scale Fish Processing Using Local Kitchen Facilities, The Education Store
Aquaculture Family Coloring Book Development, The Education Store
Eat Midwest Fish, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant online resource hub
Ask an Expert: Wildlife Food Plots, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
How to Build a Plastic Mesh Deer Exclusion Fence, The Education Store
Managing Your Woods for White-Tailed Deer, The Education Store
Handling Harvested Game: Episode 1, Field Dressing, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Deer Harvest Data Collection, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Age Determination in White-tailed Deer, video, The Education Store
Subscribe to Purdue Extension-Forestry & Natural Resources YouTube Channel, Wildlife Playlist

Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

Trees are lost every year from storm-related events. Major damage to parts of the tree or even the entire tree can result from high winds, snow and ice. Historic, specimen and significant trees provide value to the landscape and the community, and these trees can become aesthetic, financial and social losses in storms. In addition to physical damage or loss, risk and liability can become a concern to people and the surrounding property. Seasonal storms can cause extensive damage depending on timing and intensity. Deciding what to do with damaged trees is an important process.

Over time, trees swaying in the wind develop extra strength to withstand directional forces. If conditions are consistent, trees will initiate changes in their development to compensate for these loading patterns. They are biologically engineered to adjust to external loading, under normal conditions. This fiber strength can minimize the impact of external forces, unless they are excessive, such as during a storm. Typically, these loads come from wind. However, ice and snow also can cause damage from excessive weight on branches.

Typical weather events are not an issue for trees. They are engineered to withstand normal conditions. However, some storms can exert extreme forces, resulting in injuries of varying degrees. It is at this point that a tree owner or manager must make an informed decision based on the extent of the damage. The assistance of a trained arborist can help determine if a tree can be saved from sustained injuries, or if it requires removal

The response to storm damage should be based primarily on two concepts: risk and sustainability. If the tree is an imminent or likely danger to people, property or activities, the decision leaves little room for options. However, if the residual risk from the damage is determined to be of an acceptable level and the injury to the tree not life- threatening, mitigation may be possible to save the tree and reduce the danger.

There are several types of tree damage that occur from violent weather. Each has its own specific assessment considerations. All parts of the tree should be inspected during a post-storm assessment.

Excessive winds uproot large trees with weak root systems

Some common damage found includes:
Wind Throw
The entire tree is “pushed over” by high winds. The loading forces on the aerial tree portions are too great for the developed root system. Previous harm from activities such as construction damage, lack of maintenance and attacks from pests predisposes the tree to damage with poor anchorage or health. Inspect the root plate of each tree on a regular basis to determine if there are any root health issues. Look for fungal fruiting bodies, exposed roots, lifting or other damage. Larger or more mature trees that have been completely uprooted are typically not salvageable

Tree trunks fail at their weakest points, causing them to snap or
break.

Stem Failure
Trees will fail at their weakest point. Typically, failure is caused by the combination of a defect and external forces. Old injury sites or wounds are common on tree trunks, and these damaged areas can lead to tree failure under excessive loads. Also, trees newly exposed to prevailing winds from development or removal can be at greater risk. Trunks can snap or buckle if the tree is unable to withstand the wind forces. Damage from stem failure usually cannot be repaired. Trees with major defects on the trunk should be examined carefully to determine the degree of risk for that location. Look for decayed areas, cavities, nesting holes and fungal fruiting bodies for indicators. The extent and location of these defects will help the arborist determine the potential for failure.

Crown Twist
The tree canopy contains an array of leaves, twigs and branches that make up the crown portion of the tree.

Winds causing a twist of the trunk can leave dangerous splits and
cracks.

Many times, the crown can have an uneven geometry from competition or poor pruning, leaving an unequal appearance. The result of this situation in high winds can be trouble. Uneven wind loading on the lopsided crown produces a damaging twist on major branches and the stem. This twisting causes torsional stress, much like twisting a rope backwards, resulting in splits and cracking. This is especially damaging around old wounds or other defects, which can lead to failure. Close investigation is necessary to spot these often-subtle cracks. Often this damage can be mitigated in branches; however, take caution with damaged trunks.

Root Failure
Stability and anchorage are important roles of the root system for keeping a tree upright.

Root failure often leaves trees leaning. Look for exposed roots after
high wind storms.

Both the structural, woody roots and the fine absorbing roots create an effective network of strength to withstand wind-loading forces. As the tree becomes larger, increased stress is put on the roots to maintain stability.

Roots that are restricted, diseased or damaged can cause trees to lean and fall. Careful examination of the root plate is needed to determine if anchorage is compromised. Look for heaving soil and roots around the tree trunk, which can present a high-risk situation. The presence of pulled or broken roots, as well as any mushroom development around the root system, also can be indicators of defects in the roots. Depending on the age, size and degree of exposure, mitigation may be possible. Young trees with healthy roots systems can be up righted and staked or guyed with success. However, if more than 30 percent of the roots are exposed, removal may be the better option.

Damage to branches, such as shear plane cracks, should be
removed by proper pruning.

Branch Failure
Tree branches are easy victims of loading forces. Whether it is axial loading from snow or ice accretion or lateral, side loading from wind, damage is frequent. Because branches can sometimes be poorly attached to the main stems, they can easily experience injury. However, this structural arrangement allows the branches to be flexible and disposable, and easily shed in times of stress to help dampen the impact of wind, minimizing damage to the larger, structural branches.

Poor architecture and development, such as codominant stems and included bark in branch junctions, predisposes branches to failure and often are the first to experience damage. Branch failure can be easily repaired and not lethal to the tree unless more than half the crown has been destroyed. However, they can create high-risk situations in the wrong places. Learn to recognize dead, broken, hanging limbs or other signs of damage to reduce risk. Often twisted and cracked branches are difficult to see and may need closer inspection by an arborist to identify. Be sure to use pruning best practices when correcting damage in the crown.

There are other forms of damage, such as lightning damage, which can be detrimental and even lethal to trees. A certified arborist or qualified consulting arborist can help provide a prognosis.

Storm Damage Prevention
It is impossible to protect a tree from storms or prevent damage from weather events. However, there are some actions that can minimize injury to trees.

The best preparation begins when trees are young or newly planted. Do not stake or guy trees unless absolutely necessary. This prevents development of internal adjustments to wind with response wood growth. Let the tree adjust to local conditions by allowing natural movement.

Functional pruning helps trees form a healthy, more wind-resistant crown. Inspection and corrective pruning of newly planted trees produces a stronger structure. Eliminate codominant stems by pruning these weak- forked branches. Choose a good, strong central leader for young trees. This will prevent losing the whole crown in the future. Choose branches with even spacing, radially around the tree for balance and symmetry.

Inspect trees for broken, dying, diseased and dead branches each year. Also, conduct a visual assessment after a storm event. Look for crossing branches, which lead to problems where rubbing produces damage and decay. Always favor branches with a “U” shape or greater than 45° angle, which forms an optimal connection. These branches will have fewer tendencies to split or break from wind or ice loads. Eliminate branches with bark inclusion and tight or narrow branch junctions.

Tree topping is an unhealthy practice.

Branch training is essential for sustainable, long-term tree plantings.

Under no circumstances should a tree be “topped” to prevent wind or ice damage. Topped trees produce many small, poorly attached sprouts and as they grow, the canopy weight and density is actually increased. In addition, topped branches often develop decay and diseased stems, which further weakens the tree and makes the branches more susceptible to breakage. Topping may seem to make a tree safer, but it actually increases the potential for storm damage with unhealthy epicormic sprouting and additional decay in the stems.

Codominant stems on this maple, as well as included bark, are more
prone to splitting

When mature trees develop unequal crowns, prune to improve symmetry. However, remember pruning best practices and never remove more than 30 percent of the crown at one time. It may take several years for crown restoration. Good pruning techniques also promote faster healing of the cuts.

Do not try to “wind-proof” the tree by thinning out branches. Trees rely on proper branching habits and placement to dampen the wind energy affecting them. Excessive and unnecessary pruning creates wounds and additional stress on tree health. Allow the tree to develop fully and naturally by pruning only when needed. However, proper health care includes pruning for vigor. This includes removing dead, dying or diseased branches, poor branch attachments, crossing branches and narrow branch angles. After this functional pruning, some thinning is achieved to reduce drag or sail in the canopy.

A healthy tree is the best defense to any challenge the tree may face in its lifetime. Appropriate watering and fertilization improves root growth and structure, making the tree more stable. Monitor for pest problems and treat when needed to prevent insects and diseases from weakening tree health. Remove diseased branches, as needed, to minimize spread and potential damage.

This tree has good branch structure with strong attachments.

Risk Assessment
Following a severe storm event, not all trees will need to be pruned or removed, and many will need little or no treatment. After identifying the type of damage, risk assessment is the priority. One of the more critical tasks for the property owner is determining an acceptable level of risk. It is the responsibility of a tree owner or manager to maintain and manage their trees to protect the safety of others. This usually requires assistance from a well-qualified arborist.

Post-Storm Response

• Safety first! Stay clear and look for dangerous hanging limbs, broken branches and other failures before beginning cleanup or inspections. Keep others clear of the areas beneath and around damaged trees. Be alert for power lines that could be involved with damaged trees. All utility lines should be considered energized and dangerous.
• 

  Functional pruning creates a healthier tree that is less prone to
  damage from ice and wind.

  Damage assessment is the next step. Review the affected tree or trees to determine the level of injury. Some trees may not require any action and can recover on their own. The challenging part of the assessment is deciding which trees can be pruned properly to a healthy state and which trees should be removed. Many factors are involved in the decision, and damage may be hidden or difficult to determine. It is critical to get a professional arborist with credentials to conduct the assessment and the work required to mitigate the injured parts of the tree.

• Match skills with the situation when it comes to reparation of damages and restoration. Be able to recognize when tree damage requires advanced training and is best handled by the arborist. Tree work is dangerous and the hazards are compounded when storm damage is involved. Leaning trees, broken and pinned branches, as well as utility lines, can create life-threatening situations.
• Basic cleanup can be helpful in the post-storm response process. Removing downed branches and limbs, and performing basic pruning on smaller, injured trees, can help speed recovery from the event. This also provides for a better evaluation of the site and the larger affected trees.

Hire a Certified Arborist
One key to dealing with the challenges of storm damage is to consult a qualified tree service. Finding a qualified tree care professional is important protection for the property owner. Sometimes less credible companies follow storms to take advantage of a bad situation. Knowing how to hire a reputable arborist can protect a property owner from being victimized. A professionally trained arborist can determine if a tree can be saved. Even if the tree must be removed, safety and training are needed to prevent additional damage or injury from the removal. An International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist can help save a tree or improve the risk situations that follow storms. Also, choosing an accredited company brings the highest level of standards for client satisfaction and safety.

A list of qualified arborists can be obtained by contacting the following sources:

• International Society of Arboriculture website.
  https://www.isa-arbor.com/
• Tree Care Industry Association website.
  https://www.tcia.org/

For more information contact: Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources Office, fnrextension@purdue.edu, 765-494- 3590.

Resources:
Find an Arborist video, Trees are Good-International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
Caring for storm-damaged trees/How to Acidify Soil in the Yard – In the Grow, Purdue Extension
Tree Risk Management – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Why Is My Tree Dying? – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Mechanical Damage to Trees: Mowing and Maintenance Equipment – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Spring Storms Are Coming: How to Reduce Tree Damage and Risk – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Trees and Electric Lines – The Education Store
Planting Your Tree Part 1: Choosing Your Tree, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Tree Installation: Process and Practices, The Education Store
Tree Wound and Healing, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Subscribe – Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

Lindsey Purcell, Executive Director
Indiana Arborist Association

In the past few years, prescribed fire has caught on in Indiana. Government agencies and land trusts have increasingly used it as a tool to create wildlife habitat, manage for rare and endangered species, and promote ecosystem health. On these properties, fire has been reintroduced to landscapes it shaped for thousands of years.

However, while fire is being used to improve our public lands, 96% of Indiana is privately owned. If fire is truly going to spread, private landowners need to start burning as well. One means to that end is the formation of Prescribed Burn Associations.

Prescribed Burn Associations (PBAs for short) are, at their most basic level, groups of people who burn together. By burning as a group, members of the PBA can share expertise, equipment, and labor to get more fire on the landscape. They can also pursue training and funding opportunities that may not be readily available to individuals. In Missouri, the formation of 18 PBAs has led to prescribed fire on more than 11,000 acres across the state in the past 10 years. The model for success is already out there.

Indiana is just getting into the PBA game. One PBA based in Daviess County already exists, and interest meetings for two more in Brown and Harrison are on the calendar for fall of 2026. More meetings are in the works across other parts of Indiana.

So, how does one get involved with a PBA? If you happen to be in one of the counties mentioned above, it’s as simple as contacting the leader or attending a meeting. Fire experience is not a requirement, only enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Members don’t have to be landowners either – many PBAs include professionals, students, and folks who are simply interested in learning new land management skills.

If there isn’t a PBA in your area, consider getting one started. Find a few other people who want to be involved, hold an interest meeting to share information and sign folks up, then elect a board. From there, the board guides the organization and helps create its rules, and the larger membership decides on a coverage area and name. Then, all that’s left to do is inventory available equipment and expertise, line up some burns, and start getting good fire on the ground.

Still not sure how to start? That’s where we can help. If you are interested in starting or joining a PBA, you can fill out this PBA Interest Form, and we will reach out to help you get started.

With the formation of PBAs across the state, fire can be more broadly used as a management tool, benefiting the natural world and humans alike. For more information on PBAs, including formation tips and upcoming meetings, visit the Prescribed Burn Associations website.

Resources:
Indiana Prescribed Fire Council (INPFC)
Effective Firebreaks for Safe Use of Prescribed Fire, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Prescribed fire: 6 things to consider before you ignite, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Getting Certified as an Indiana Certified Prescribed Burn Manager, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
FNR Ask The Expert: Prescribed Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment: Prescribed Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Wild Habitat Hint: Late Growing Season Prescribed Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Wild Habitat Hint: Prescribed Fire Techniques – Backing Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Wild Habitat Hint: Prescribed Fire Techniques – Flanking Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Wild Habitat Hint: Prescribed Fire Techniques – Strip Head Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Wild Habitat Hint: Prescribed Fire Techniques – Point Source Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Wild Habitat Hint: Prescribed Fire Techniques – Ring Fire, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel

Danielle Paige Howard, Extension Prescribed Fire Specialist
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources

In this edition of ID That Tree, Purdue Extension Forester Lenny Farlee introduces us to Nannyberry Viburnum, a native shrub found across Indiana woodlands. Learn how to identify Nannyberry by its finely serrated leaves, drooping branches, clustered fruit and seasonal changes from spring blooms to fall color. Lenny also shares where this species commonly grows and how it fits into Indiana’s natural landscapes. This video provides a helpful introduction to identifying Nannyberry Viburnum whether you’re a student, landowner, or just interested in better understanding the trees and shrubs 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, Purdue Extension’s resource center

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

In this edition of ID That Tree, Purdue Extension Forester Lenny Farlee introduces us to Eastern Swamp Privet, a native Indiana shrub commonly found in wetland and swampy habitats. Unlike the privets around yards, homes and towns, the Eastern Swamp Privet comes from a different genus of plants. Learn how to identify this species by its opposite arrangement, simple leaves, finely toothed margins and spurs. This video provides a helpful introduction to identifying Eastern Swamp Privet whether you’re a student, landowner, or just interested in better understanding the trees and shrubs 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, Purdue Extension’s resource center

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

Jarred Brooke for Purdue Extension in West Lafayette, Ind. on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024.

Jarred Brooke, Extension wildlife specialist, was honored with a Career Achievement Award at the Fire in Eastern Oak Forests Conference in June.

In addition to his extension work with wildlife, Brooke has been deeply involved in prescribed fire, serving as chair of the Indiana Prescribed Fire Council since 2018, working to implement prescribed fire policy in Indiana, and organizing more than 30 Learn-N-Burn and Prescribed Fire field days and workshops that provide landowners and professionals with practical experience in fire safety, timing, and ecological benefits. Jarred has also co-instructed the undergraduate FNR-333 Applied Fire Ecology course since 2019. He was instrumental in securing funding from the Sam Shine Foundation to hire Danielle Howard, the recently hired Extension prescribed fire specialist.

Brooke also was one of three main instructors and organizers of the Indiana Land Stewardship Leadership Academy, which graduated its first class this spring. He was honored in 2021 with the Early Career Award from the Purdue Cooperative Extension Specialists’ Association and PK-12 Council’s Staff Excellence Award for his work with youth audiences, expanding their interest in and preparation for careers in natural resource sciences.

“It’s an honor to have been given the Career Achievement Award from the Fire in Eastern Oak Forests Conference,” Brooke said. “Since I don’t have enough gray hair for a career achievement award, we’ll just call it an early-career award. I have enjoyed all the prescribed fire work I’ve been able to do through my Extension role at Purdue, but this award would not have been possible without all the partners I work with on fire. From leading Learn-N-Burns and serving on the Indiana Prescribed Fire Council board to working

Jarred Brooked is honored with a Career Achievement Award at the Fire in Eastern Oak Forests Conference in June 2026.

on prescribed fire policy in the Hoosier state, it’s been a collaborative journey – and I’m looking forward to more in the future! Special thanks to Allen Pursell for presenting me with the award.”

At the awards presentation, Pursell, director of forest programs for the Sam Shine Foundation, Inc., said:

“Jarred served as president of the Indiana Prescribed Fire Council from its inception in 2016 through 2025, and remains active. Jarred was known for great ideas, energy, and leadership skills. One of the board members told me that Jarred really held the council together, especially during Covid, when it would have been easy for it to wither.

“As part of his accomplishments there:

• He spearheaded getting the Indiana Prescribed Fire Council incorporated as a non-profit entity.
• He was the key person shepherding the entire process that resulted in the new Indiana Prescribed Fire Law. Many people were involved in key roles, but Jarred made it come together.
• More recently, Jarred identified funds so that Purdue University could hire a Prescribed Fire Extension Specialist who will help to form and support Prescribed Burn Associations, Support the Certified Prescribed Burn Manager program, and Conduct prescribed fire outreach to local communities.
  

  FNR students conduct a prescribed burn at the Celery Bog for their FNR 33350 class in West Lafayette, Ind. on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026. (Purdue University photo/Joshua Clark)

• In addition to these, Jarred has conducted many “learn and burn” courses for students and citizens who are interested in prescribed fire. He is a leader among his peers and an untiring advocate for prescribed fire in Indiana.

“For these accomplishments and many others, we are pleased to present Jarred Brooke with this career award.”

The Eastern Oak Forests Conference achievement awards are meant to recognize any significant contributions ranging from science, management, education and outreach, or training. Awards for the conference began during the 2019 conference playing and have ranged from one to six awardees per conference. Awardees are nominated by conference steering committee members.

To view this article along with other news and stories posted on the Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources website view: Jarred Brooke Receives Early Career Award for Prescribed Fire Work.

Resources:
Nature of Teaching, Purdue Agriculture
Natural of Teaching YouTube Channel
College of Agriculture PK-12 Council Outreach and Engagement Awards, Purdue Agriculture
National Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP), Teaching Youth Valuable Skills
Learn How to Control Reed Canarygrass, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
FNR Ask The Expert: Prescribed Fire with Jarred Brooke and Mike Saunders, Purdue Extension – FNR Video
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
Indiana Prescribed Fire Council (IPFC)
Subscribe – Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel, find natural resources, forestry, wildlife, urban forestry and much more.

Wendy Mayer, FNR Communications Coordinator
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources

Description of Bovine Tuberculosis:
Bovine tuberculosis (bovine Tb) is a disease found in mammals caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis). In North America, bovine Tb is most commonly found in domestic cattle and captive and wild cervids (white-tailed deer, elk, etc.) and less commonly in other mammals such as raccoon, opossums, coyotes, and wild boars.

Bovine Tb has been greatly reduced in the cattle industry since the National Cooperative State-Federal Bovine Tuberculosis eradication program began in 1917. Currently, most states are accredited as “Bovine Tuberculosis-Free” by the United States Department of Agriculture, however, sporadic outbreaks do still occur throughout the United States.

Cattle, captive cervids, and wild white-tailed deer are considered reservoir hosts for bovine Tb. A reservoir host is a species in which bovine Tb can persist and be transmitted among individuals within a species or be transmitted to another species. Wild white-tailed deer may pose the greatest threat to the establishment of bovine Tb on the landscape because they move freely across the landscape and may contact multiple domestic cattle herds.

In Indiana, bovine Tb was detected in domestic cattle in 2008, 2010, and 2011 and most recently in April 2016 and a captive red deer and elk herd in Franklin County in 2009. The first case of bovine Tb in a wild white-tailed deer in Indiana occurred in August 2016 in Franklin County. All confirmed cases of bovine Tb in Indiana have been from the same strain of M. Bovis.

As of Dec 14th, 2016, 2,024 white-tailed deer samples have been collected, 2 exhibited lesions consistent with bovine Tb; 1,897 samples have been tested and 0 samples have tested positive for bovine Tb.

Frequently asked questions:

Picture 1. Bovine Tb Management and Surveillance Zones in Indiana as of Dec. 2016.

Picture 2. Lesions from bovine Tb infection in the chest cavity of a wild white-tailed deer. Photo by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Additional Bovine Tb Resources:
Bovine Tuberculosis in Wild White-tailed Deer, FNR-551-W publication, Purdue Extension – Forestry & Natural Resources
Bovine Tb, Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR)
Bovine Tb, Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH)
Bovine Tb Disease, USDA, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Bovine Tb, Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Bovine Tb, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Bovine Tb factsheet, Center for Disease Control

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

In this edition of ID That Tree, Purdue Extension Forester Lenny Farlee introduces us to Carolina Buckthorn. This native Indiana shrub features smooth gray bark, glossy leaves and colorful berries that shift from green to red to black. Learn how Carolina buckthorn differs from invasive buckthorn species, where it commonly grows in Indiana woodlands and tips for recognizing it throughout the seasons. This video provides a helpful introduction to identifying Carolina Buckthorn whether you’re a student, landowner or just interested in better understanding of the trees and shrubs 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

MyDNR, Indiana’s Outdoor Newsletter: Do you have bats roosting on your property? Help DNR by counting how many bats fly out during a few evenings this summer. A new DNR tool allows individuals with bats roosting on their property (or a property where they have access) to report the roost to DNR mammalogists.

Image credit: Indiana Department of Natural Resources

This data allows biologists to learn how and where bats and humans coexist. Over time, the data will contribute to a map of these locations. The information will also guide outreach efforts and allow DNR biologists to contact property owners who submit reports for additional survey opportunities.

Data collection projects and many of the outreach and conservation efforts that result from them are made possible largely thanks to donations to the Nongame Wildlife Fund.

For more information please visit Summer Bat Roost Monitoring Project.

To subscribe to the newsletter visit: DNR: Communications: MyDNR Email Newsletter (in.gov)

Resources:
Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (HEE) Highlights: Bats, Video, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Bats in the Belfry, Purdue Extension – FNR Got Nature? Blog
Ask An Expert: Bats on the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (HEE), Video, Purdue Extension – FNR Facebook
Bats in Indiana, Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IN DNR)
Bat Houses, Bat Conservation International
Creating a Wildlife Habitat Management Plan for Landowners, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
The Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (HEE): Indiana Forestry and Wildlife, The Education Store
Unexpected Plants and Animals of Indiana: Indiana Bats, Purdue College of Agriculture News
Selecting a Nuisance Wildlife Control Professional, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
FAQs – How can I get rid of nuisance wildlife (bats, deer, racoons, etc.)?
Subscribe to Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Department of Fish & Wildlife