Fall webinars address forest management in wake of Bemidji storm damage

BEMIDJI — A fall webinar series seeks to support woodland owners and forestry professionals as they respond to recent summer storm damage in the Bemidji area.

The webinars are hosted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in partnership with the Minnesota Forestry Association. The stated goal of the series is to help landowners create healthy, resilient forests, even after severe weather events.

“These webinars are a chance for landowners to connect with experts and learn about resources available to help them recover from storm damage and manage their woods for the future,” stated John Carlson, private forest management coordinator at the DNR.

“We value the partnership with MFA and forestry professionals who bring this information to woodland owners across the state.”

The first webinar takes place 4-5:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13.

Presenters for this session include Megan O’Neil, DNR forest health specialist, who will discuss common pests and diseases to watch for and how to prevent or slow their spread; and Brian Bignall, Potlatch forester, who will give a forest industry perspective on the blowdown.

The series will be 4 p.m. on the second Monday of each month, with upcoming sessions on Nov. 10 and Dec. 8. November’s session will cover cost-share opportunities for landowners. December will focus on fire prevention and future reforestation efforts.

The webinars are free to attend, but registration is required. For details and to register, visit the Minnesota Forestry Association website.