Illinois Forestry Association upcoming events

Dixon Springs Ag Center Field Day 2026 (07/14/2026)

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Join Illinois Extension for a special Field Day at the Dixon Springs Agricultural Center in Southern Illinois on July 14, 2026 from 5-8 p.m. where community and agriculture come together for an evening of learning and connection. For admission of just $5, your experience will include a farm-to-table meal featuring food grown and produced at the Ag Center. Other topics below.

Forest Management – Extension Forestry Specialist Kevin Rohling will lead a tour of our demonstration forest and discuss different management approaches and practices, and how they influence the forest. He will also discuss recent research on the impacts of forest management on forest moths and other wildlife.

Invasive Species Identification and Management – Extension Forestry Specialist Chris Evans will show different invasive plant species of concern to landowners in the region, discuss management practices and recommendations, and talk about recent research underway at Dixon Springs on invasive species.

Pollinator Prairie Establishment – Extension Educator Erin Garrett will lead a tour of the Dixon Springs Pollinator Prairie and the native plants growing there. Erin also will discuss the process of establishing a prairie, the benefits of increasing native plants on your landscape, and practices needed to maintain a prairie.

Ongoing Animal Science Research Projects – Animal Science summer I-BELIEF interns and graduate students from the University of Illinois will showcase current research projects taking place within the department, discuss research methods and share information about ongoing studies related to livestock production, animal health, nutrition, genetics, and agricultural sustainability.

Ticks of Illinois - Bite Prevention and Identification - Ticks and tick-borne diseases are an increasing concern in Illinois. Dr. Teresa Steckler, Extension Specialist, will discuss Illinois tick species and their associated diseases, where ticks are found, how to protect yourself from tick bites and see real ticks under the microscope to learn how small they actually are!

High Tunnel Vegetable Production - Extension Educator Bronwyn Aly will lead a tour of the research and demonstration high tunnels and discuss vegetable management strategies within the protected cover environment of the tunnels. She will also discuss ongoing tomato and pepper variety trials.

Biological Insect Control - Extension specialist Dr. Kacie Athey will share information on how to use natural predator insects to control insect pests in specialty crops. Research conducted in the high tunnels at DSAC over the past 5 years will be highlighted.

Managing Heat Stress in Tomatoes - Extension Specialist Dr. James Santiago will discuss the effects of heat stress on tomatoes and other specialty crops, current research projects related to heat stress, and strategies to reduce heat stress in vegetables.

Forestry Stewardship Webinar Series 2026 (07/29/2026)

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Join the University of Illinois Extension Forestry team for their 2026 Forestry Stewardship Webinar Series. The webinars feature a series of five presentations from Forestry Experts each Wednesday at 2:00 pm Central on July 29 and August 5, 12, 19, and 26. You can choose to sign up for any or all of them! Virtual sessions are 1-hour in length, open to the public, and free to attend. ISA Certified Arborist Continuing Education credits have been applied for.

July 29 - Woodland Landowner Considerations for Forest Carbon Programs, Keith Phelps, University of Wisconsin-Madison

In the past few years, opportunities for woodland landowners to participate in forest carbon programs have expanded across the Midwest. However, it can be difficult to understand if enrolling in a forest carbon pro-gram is compatible with the management vision for your woodland. Join UW-Madison Extension Forestry for a presentation on forest carbon programs operating in the Midwest and important questions to consider when deciding whether or not to enroll in a forest carbon program.

August 5 - Managing for Oak Regeneration: What does Current Research Tell us?, Chris Evans, University of Illinois

Enhancing oak regeneration is a top priority in Illinois forests, but successfully establishing new oak seedlings is not always easy and success is not guaranteed. This presentation will review what recent research says about the strategies and practices used in managing for oak seedlings.

August 12 - Selling Timber: What the Landowner Needs to Know, Hank Stelzer, University of Missouri

When it comes time to harvest trees from your woodland, are you prepared? MU Extension forestry state specialist, Hank Stelzer, will walk viewers through the process of selling timber from start to finish and the need to hire a professional forester.

August 19 - Fire Ecology for Managing Grasslands and Woodlands, Jon Henn, University of Illinois

Illinois is dominated by fire-adapted ecosystems from prairies to savannas to barrens and oak woodlands. Historically, fire played a key role in maintaining diversity, structure, and function in these systems. Today, prescribed fire is a tool that can be used to promote plant diversity, control invasive species, and restore structure. In this session we will discuss some of the basics of fire ecology in native systems and how it can be implemented on private land for management goals.

August 26 - Drone-based Herbicide Application Efficacy for Priority Invasive Plants, Kevin Rohling, University of Illinois

Drone-based herbicide applications for invasive plants have been increasing due to their low cost, the increasing availability of contract applicators, and decreasing equipment costs. However, recommendations for effective drone-based treatments of invasive plants are sparse. This talk will focus on a project to evaluate the efficacy of drone-based herbicide applications on priority invasive plants, including common reed (Phragmites australis), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), and bush honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii). This presentation will provide an overview of the findings, recommendations for successful drone treatments, and next steps to improve this emerging technology in natural resource management.

Introduction to Foraging for Landowners (08/01/2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Discover the Hidden Resources in Your Woodlands!

Have you ever wondered about the edible, medicinal, or unique useful plants growing naturally right in your backyard or local forests?

The University of Illinois Extension is hosting an upcoming Introduction to Foraging for Landowners workshop. This hands-on educational program is designed specifically for woodland owners, nature enthusiasts, and anyone curious about sustainably utilizing nature's bounty.

Led by Extension Forestry intern Liv Jenson, this introductory session will guide you through the essentials of responsible forest foraging.

What You’ll Learn & Experience:

Safe Identification: Learn how to accurately spot and identify common wild edibles and useful forest plants.
Practical Uses: Discover creative and traditional ways to utilize foraged forest products.
Tasting Session: Enjoy a unique opportunity to sample a variety of foraged forest treats!

Registration:

Please note: Registration is managed directly by the event host, University of Illinois Extension.

Click Here to Register via University of Illinois Extension

Forestry Stewardship Webinar Series 2026 (08/05/2026)

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Join the University of Illinois Extension Forestry team for their 2026 Forestry Stewardship Webinar Series. The webinars feature a series of five presentations from Forestry Experts each Wednesday at 2:00 pm Central on July 29 and August 5, 12, 19, and 26. You can choose to sign up for any or all of them! Virtual sessions are 1-hour in length, open to the public, and free to attend. ISA Certified Arborist Continuing Education credits have been applied for.

July 29 - Woodland Landowner Considerations for Forest Carbon Programs, Keith Phelps, University of Wisconsin-Madison

In the past few years, opportunities for woodland landowners to participate in forest carbon programs have expanded across the Midwest. However, it can be difficult to understand if enrolling in a forest carbon pro-gram is compatible with the management vision for your woodland. Join UW-Madison Extension Forestry for a presentation on forest carbon programs operating in the Midwest and important questions to consider when deciding whether or not to enroll in a forest carbon program.

August 5 - Managing for Oak Regeneration: What does Current Research Tell us?, Chris Evans, University of Illinois

Enhancing oak regeneration is a top priority in Illinois forests, but successfully establishing new oak seedlings is not always easy and success is not guaranteed. This presentation will review what recent research says about the strategies and practices used in managing for oak seedlings.

August 12 - Selling Timber: What the Landowner Needs to Know, Hank Stelzer, University of Missouri

When it comes time to harvest trees from your woodland, are you prepared? MU Extension forestry state specialist, Hank Stelzer, will walk viewers through the process of selling timber from start to finish and the need to hire a professional forester.

August 19 - Fire Ecology for Managing Grasslands and Woodlands, Jon Henn, University of Illinois

Illinois is dominated by fire-adapted ecosystems from prairies to savannas to barrens and oak woodlands. Historically, fire played a key role in maintaining diversity, structure, and function in these systems. Today, prescribed fire is a tool that can be used to promote plant diversity, control invasive species, and restore structure. In this session we will discuss some of the basics of fire ecology in native systems and how it can be implemented on private land for management goals.

August 26 - Drone-based Herbicide Application Efficacy for Priority Invasive Plants, Kevin Rohling, University of Illinois

Drone-based herbicide applications for invasive plants have been increasing due to their low cost, the increasing availability of contract applicators, and decreasing equipment costs. However, recommendations for effective drone-based treatments of invasive plants are sparse. This talk will focus on a project to evaluate the efficacy of drone-based herbicide applications on priority invasive plants, including common reed (Phragmites australis), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), and bush honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii). This presentation will provide an overview of the findings, recommendations for successful drone treatments, and next steps to improve this emerging technology in natural resource management.

Forestry Stewardship Webinar Series 2026 (08/12/2026)

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Join the University of Illinois Extension Forestry team for their 2026 Forestry Stewardship Webinar Series. The webinars feature a series of five presentations from Forestry Experts each Wednesday at 2:00 pm Central on July 29 and August 5, 12, 19, and 26. You can choose to sign up for any or all of them! Virtual sessions are 1-hour in length, open to the public, and free to attend. ISA Certified Arborist Continuing Education credits have been applied for.

July 29 - Woodland Landowner Considerations for Forest Carbon Programs, Keith Phelps, University of Wisconsin-Madison

In the past few years, opportunities for woodland landowners to participate in forest carbon programs have expanded across the Midwest. However, it can be difficult to understand if enrolling in a forest carbon pro-gram is compatible with the management vision for your woodland. Join UW-Madison Extension Forestry for a presentation on forest carbon programs operating in the Midwest and important questions to consider when deciding whether or not to enroll in a forest carbon program.

August 5 - Managing for Oak Regeneration: What does Current Research Tell us?, Chris Evans, University of Illinois

Enhancing oak regeneration is a top priority in Illinois forests, but successfully establishing new oak seedlings is not always easy and success is not guaranteed. This presentation will review what recent research says about the strategies and practices used in managing for oak seedlings.

August 12 - Selling Timber: What the Landowner Needs to Know, Hank Stelzer, University of Missouri

When it comes time to harvest trees from your woodland, are you prepared? MU Extension forestry state specialist, Hank Stelzer, will walk viewers through the process of selling timber from start to finish and the need to hire a professional forester.

August 19 - Fire Ecology for Managing Grasslands and Woodlands, Jon Henn, University of Illinois

Illinois is dominated by fire-adapted ecosystems from prairies to savannas to barrens and oak woodlands. Historically, fire played a key role in maintaining diversity, structure, and function in these systems. Today, prescribed fire is a tool that can be used to promote plant diversity, control invasive species, and restore structure. In this session we will discuss some of the basics of fire ecology in native systems and how it can be implemented on private land for management goals.

August 26 - Drone-based Herbicide Application Efficacy for Priority Invasive Plants, Kevin Rohling, University of Illinois

Drone-based herbicide applications for invasive plants have been increasing due to their low cost, the increasing availability of contract applicators, and decreasing equipment costs. However, recommendations for effective drone-based treatments of invasive plants are sparse. This talk will focus on a project to evaluate the efficacy of drone-based herbicide applications on priority invasive plants, including common reed (Phragmites australis), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), and bush honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii). This presentation will provide an overview of the findings, recommendations for successful drone treatments, and next steps to improve this emerging technology in natural resource management.

Forestry Stewardship Webinar Series 2026 (08/19/2026)

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Join the University of Illinois Extension Forestry team for their 2026 Forestry Stewardship Webinar Series. The webinars feature a series of five presentations from Forestry Experts each Wednesday at 2:00 pm Central on July 29 and August 5, 12, 19, and 26. You can choose to sign up for any or all of them! Virtual sessions are 1-hour in length, open to the public, and free to attend. ISA Certified Arborist Continuing Education credits have been applied for.

July 29 - Woodland Landowner Considerations for Forest Carbon Programs, Keith Phelps, University of Wisconsin-Madison

In the past few years, opportunities for woodland landowners to participate in forest carbon programs have expanded across the Midwest. However, it can be difficult to understand if enrolling in a forest carbon pro-gram is compatible with the management vision for your woodland. Join UW-Madison Extension Forestry for a presentation on forest carbon programs operating in the Midwest and important questions to consider when deciding whether or not to enroll in a forest carbon program.

August 5 - Managing for Oak Regeneration: What does Current Research Tell us?, Chris Evans, University of Illinois

Enhancing oak regeneration is a top priority in Illinois forests, but successfully establishing new oak seedlings is not always easy and success is not guaranteed. This presentation will review what recent research says about the strategies and practices used in managing for oak seedlings.

August 12 - Selling Timber: What the Landowner Needs to Know, Hank Stelzer, University of Missouri

When it comes time to harvest trees from your woodland, are you prepared? MU Extension forestry state specialist, Hank Stelzer, will walk viewers through the process of selling timber from start to finish and the need to hire a professional forester.

August 19 - Fire Ecology for Managing Grasslands and Woodlands, Jon Henn, University of Illinois

Illinois is dominated by fire-adapted ecosystems from prairies to savannas to barrens and oak woodlands. Historically, fire played a key role in maintaining diversity, structure, and function in these systems. Today, prescribed fire is a tool that can be used to promote plant diversity, control invasive species, and restore structure. In this session we will discuss some of the basics of fire ecology in native systems and how it can be implemented on private land for management goals.

August 26 - Drone-based Herbicide Application Efficacy for Priority Invasive Plants, Kevin Rohling, University of Illinois

Drone-based herbicide applications for invasive plants have been increasing due to their low cost, the increasing availability of contract applicators, and decreasing equipment costs. However, recommendations for effective drone-based treatments of invasive plants are sparse. This talk will focus on a project to evaluate the efficacy of drone-based herbicide applications on priority invasive plants, including common reed (Phragmites australis), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), and bush honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii). This presentation will provide an overview of the findings, recommendations for successful drone treatments, and next steps to improve this emerging technology in natural resource management.

Forestry Stewardship Webinar Series 2026 (08/26/2026)

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Join the University of Illinois Extension Forestry team for their 2026 Forestry Stewardship Webinar Series. The webinars feature a series of five presentations from Forestry Experts each Wednesday at 2:00 pm Central on July 29 and August 5, 12, 19, and 26. You can choose to sign up for any or all of them! Virtual sessions are 1-hour in length, open to the public, and free to attend. ISA Certified Arborist Continuing Education credits have been applied for.

July 29 - Woodland Landowner Considerations for Forest Carbon Programs, Keith Phelps, University of Wisconsin-Madison

In the past few years, opportunities for woodland landowners to participate in forest carbon programs have expanded across the Midwest. However, it can be difficult to understand if enrolling in a forest carbon pro-gram is compatible with the management vision for your woodland. Join UW-Madison Extension Forestry for a presentation on forest carbon programs operating in the Midwest and important questions to consider when deciding whether or not to enroll in a forest carbon program.

August 5 - Managing for Oak Regeneration: What does Current Research Tell us?, Chris Evans, University of Illinois

Enhancing oak regeneration is a top priority in Illinois forests, but successfully establishing new oak seedlings is not always easy and success is not guaranteed. This presentation will review what recent research says about the strategies and practices used in managing for oak seedlings.

August 12 - Selling Timber: What the Landowner Needs to Know, Hank Stelzer, University of Missouri

When it comes time to harvest trees from your woodland, are you prepared? MU Extension forestry state specialist, Hank Stelzer, will walk viewers through the process of selling timber from start to finish and the need to hire a professional forester.

August 19 - Fire Ecology for Managing Grasslands and Woodlands, Jon Henn, University of Illinois

Illinois is dominated by fire-adapted ecosystems from prairies to savannas to barrens and oak woodlands. Historically, fire played a key role in maintaining diversity, structure, and function in these systems. Today, prescribed fire is a tool that can be used to promote plant diversity, control invasive species, and restore structure. In this session we will discuss some of the basics of fire ecology in native systems and how it can be implemented on private land for management goals.

August 26 - Drone-based Herbicide Application Efficacy for Priority Invasive Plants, Kevin Rohling, University of Illinois

Drone-based herbicide applications for invasive plants have been increasing due to their low cost, the increasing availability of contract applicators, and decreasing equipment costs. However, recommendations for effective drone-based treatments of invasive plants are sparse. This talk will focus on a project to evaluate the efficacy of drone-based herbicide applications on priority invasive plants, including common reed (Phragmites australis), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), and bush honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii). This presentation will provide an overview of the findings, recommendations for successful drone treatments, and next steps to improve this emerging technology in natural resource management.

IFA 21st Annual Conference (09/17/2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Overview

Join forest landowners, conservation professionals, and nature enthusiasts for three days dedicated to Illinois wildlife and habitat management. This year’s program features exclusive field tours at the renowned Nachusa Grasslands, expert-led educational sessions, and valuable networking opportunities.

Conference Schedule

Thursday, Sept 17: Kickoff with a pre-conference site visit to Nachusa Grasslands in the afternoon, and a fireside cocktail evening at the Jarrett Prairie Center.
Friday, Sept 18: Full day of concurrent indoor/outdoor sessions (choose your track!), member meeting, and silent auction.
Saturday, Sept 19 : A special IFA annual conference attendee-only tour at the Nachusa Grasslands Fall Festival.

Why Attend?

Exclusive Access: Explore Nachusa Grasslands, a premier site for bison reintroduction, prairie restoration, and conservation research.
Expert Insights: Participate in hands-on demonstrations and talks focused on forest health and wildlife habitat.
Community: Connect with fellow conservationists during our networking sessions and support IFA programs through our silent auction.

Hotel Blocks

Courtyard by Marriott Rockford (32 min drive)
Hilton Garden Inn Rockford (34 min drive)
Both available through August 17th

Event program available soon!

IFA 21st Annual Conference (09/17/2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Overview

Conference Schedule

Thursday, Sept 17: Kickoff with a pre-conference site visit to Nachusa Grasslands in the afternoon, and a fireside cocktail evening at the Jarrett Prairie Center.
Friday, Sept 18: Full day of concurrent indoor/outdoor sessions (choose your track!), member meeting, and silent auction.
Saturday, Sept 19 : A special IFA annual conference attendee-only tour at the Nachusa Grasslands Fall Festival.

Why Attend?

Exclusive Access: Explore Nachusa Grasslands, a premier site for bison reintroduction, prairie restoration, and conservation research.
Expert Insights: Participate in hands-on demonstrations and talks focused on forest health and wildlife habitat.
Community: Connect with fellow conservationists during our networking sessions and support IFA programs through our silent auction.

Hotel Blocks

Courtyard by Marriott Rockford (32 min drive)
Hilton Garden Inn Rockford (34 min drive)
Both available through August 17th

Event program available soon!

IFA 21st Annual Conference (09/18/2026)

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Overview

Conference Schedule

Thursday, Sept 17: Kickoff with a pre-conference site visit to Nachusa Grasslands in the afternoon, and a fireside cocktail evening at the Jarrett Prairie Center.
Friday, Sept 18: Full day of concurrent indoor/outdoor sessions (choose your track!), member meeting, and silent auction.
Saturday, Sept 19 : A special IFA annual conference attendee-only tour at the Nachusa Grasslands Fall Festival.

Why Attend?

Exclusive Access: Explore Nachusa Grasslands, a premier site for bison reintroduction, prairie restoration, and conservation research.
Expert Insights: Participate in hands-on demonstrations and talks focused on forest health and wildlife habitat.
Community: Connect with fellow conservationists during our networking sessions and support IFA programs through our silent auction.

Hotel Blocks

Courtyard by Marriott Rockford (32 min drive)
Hilton Garden Inn Rockford (34 min drive)
Both available through August 17th

Event program available soon!

IFA 21st Annual Conference (09/19/2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Overview

Conference Schedule

Thursday, Sept 17: Kickoff with a pre-conference site visit to Nachusa Grasslands in the afternoon, and a fireside cocktail evening at the Jarrett Prairie Center.
Friday, Sept 18: Full day of concurrent indoor/outdoor sessions (choose your track!), member meeting, and silent auction.
Saturday, Sept 19 : A special IFA annual conference attendee-only tour at the Nachusa Grasslands Fall Festival.

Why Attend?

Exclusive Access: Explore Nachusa Grasslands, a premier site for bison reintroduction, prairie restoration, and conservation research.
Expert Insights: Participate in hands-on demonstrations and talks focused on forest health and wildlife habitat.
Community: Connect with fellow conservationists during our networking sessions and support IFA programs through our silent auction.

Hotel Blocks

Courtyard by Marriott Rockford (32 min drive)
Hilton Garden Inn Rockford (34 min drive)
Both available through August 17th

Event program available soon!

Ladner Field Day (10/03/2026)

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join us for a first-hand look at active forest management! This field day is a great opportunity for local landowners to see how a formal Forest Management Plan works on the ground and learn how to navigate cost-share funding programs for proper ty improvements.

What We'll Cover:

Management & Funding: The process of getting a forest plan written and securing financial assistance to offset costs.
Invasive Species Control: Real-world results of bush honeysuckle removal, including recent mechanical forestry mulching and contractor treatments.
Timber Stand Improvement: On-site contractor Mike McKim is handling the invasive mulching and will be there to share his expertise on all aspects of timber stand improvement, including specialized equipment and herbicide applications.
Owner Improvements: A look at hands-on timber stand and property improvements completed around the homestead, featuring firsthand insights directly from the landowner himself, Paul Ladner.

If you want a closer look at how a fellow landowner tackles property management on the ground, register today to join us!

Oh Deer! Evil Tree Tubes, Floods, and Plagues: Trials and Tribulations of a Restoration Tree Planting (10/24/2026)

Sat, 24 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join the Illinois Forestry Association for an immersive and eye-opening field day at the beautiful Nipper Wildlife Sanctuary, located just southeast of Loami in Sangamon County. Led by tour leader Mike Kennedy, this two- to three-hour event takes you behind the scenes of a real-world oak and hickory ecosystem restoration to explore the monumental successes and frustrating struggles of bringing a woodland back to life.

The tour focuses heavily on the practical, hands-on realities of ecological restoration across ten acres of upland and bottomland woodlands. Participants will get an up-close look at extensive invasive species removal, discuss ongoing monitoring strategies, and examine the "good, the bad, and the ugly" of using various tree protection tubes to ward off deer and rodents. Mike will also dive into the forward-thinking concept of assisted migration and how selecting specific tree species can maximize future forest diversity and resilience.

To reach the woodlands, the tour begins with a quarter-mile walk on a mowed path through a beautifully restored prairie and wetlands. Once in the woods, expect a mile or less of walking on mowed, slightly hilly trails. Please dress for the weather, wear comfortable and sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, and bring your questions for an honest look at habitat restoration. An on-site building with restroom facilities is available.