From the Woods Today

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more episodes of From the Woods Today, vi...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

https://fromthewoodstoday.com    

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

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

https://fromthewoodstoday.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

https://fromthewoodstoday.com

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

https://fromthewoodstoday.com

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

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

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

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

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today

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

Watch Video

From the Woods Today