*These training opportunities are provided as an information service only and do not constitute an endorsement from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
See below for information on trainings about healthy soil, pruning, research projects, natural disaster resilience and urban woodland management.
Hixon Center Spring Speaker Series: Data-Driven Urban Forestry
Leaders in government, research and the nonprofit sector will share insights on how innovative use of data can transform urban forestry challenges into effective solutions.
When: Tuesdays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. (CST)
Where: Virtual
Register online.
Harnessing Urban Forests For Natural Disaster Resilience
Learn about the crucial role urban forests play in mitigating the growing impacts of natural disasters, including record-breaking heatwaves, devastating floods, catastrophic wildfires and more. Urban forests act as natural shields against extreme heat, enhance water absorption to prevent flooding and help reduce air pollution. However, effectively managing urban tree canopies in the face of these escalating threats requires innovative solutions.
When: Feb. 19, 2025, 1 – 2 p.m. (CST)
Where: Virtual
Register online.
Getting To The Root Of The Problem: Understanding IPM And Soils For Urban Trees
Soil is an important element of tree health in any natural environment, and urban landscapes are no exception. Landscape design, soil analysis and selecting appropriate trees for a particular planting site are all factors to consider for a successful urban planting.
In this free webinar, an expert will discuss the benefits of organic matter versus compost, as well as root treatments and soil screening for healthy trees. Attendees will gain an understanding of common soil types and how to create thriving urban landscapes. Presenter: James Cassidy (Oregon State University)
When: Feb. 26, 2025, 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Where: Virtual
Cost: Free
Register online.
Making The Cut: Hands-on Tree Pruning Workshop
Attend this introductory hands-on workshop focused on understanding the art and science of pruning. You will learn the essential why, when and how of tree pruning to encourage healthy trees, improve fruit yield and reduce potential hazards. We will start off in the classroom and then practice these skills at the Campus Garden. Loppers, hand saws and hand pruners will be provided, or you bring your own preferred pruning tools.
When: March 1, 2025, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Upham Hall, 771 W. Starin Rd., Whitewater, WI 53190
Cost: Free
Find more information on the UW Extension website.
Dr. Huade Guan will present his findings from his project, “A pumping-test analogue for characterizing root-zone and plant integrated hydraulic systems based on above-ground measurements” from his 2022 Jack Kimmel International Grant. In this presentation, Dr. Guan will talk about a new method for estimating the hydraulic properties and states of the soil-plant system. This method is based on above-ground measurements of plant water status and sapflow. These measurements can be easily undertaken on trees without the need to bury sensors in soils. Thus, the method would be particularly useful for the environments where the root zone is difficult to access, such as urban streets.
When: March 11, 2025, noon
Where: Virtual
Register online.
Beyond traditional street trees, arborists and urban foresters may find themselves managing woodlands.
Join Amory Ngan, RPF, city of Mississauga, as he defines and details the challenges and opportunities in actively managing woodlands in urban settings.
When: March 6, 2025, 11 a.m.
Where: Virtual
Cost: Free
Find more information on the Urban Forestry Today website.