*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 training topics, including biochar, advanced arboriculture, selecting resilient tree species, The National Urban Tree Canopy Application, invasive species, wildlife and educational resources.
US Composting Council
CREF Research Project Webinar: Soil Growth & Water Impacts From Compost & Biochar
This study explores using biochar to regulate compost amendments and mitigate nutrient runoff, reducing the risk of eutrophication. Large-scale greenhouse experiments simulated roadside embankments with different compost-biochar soil mixtures. Results showed that compost enhanced plant growth but increased nitrogen and phosphorus runoff, while biochar reduced nutrient export and improved moisture retention. Combining compost and biochar in varying ratios balanced plant growth and water quality, with higher biochar content leading to lower nutrient runoff. The findings suggest that compost-biochar mixtures offer a sustainable solution for improving soil health while minimizing environmental impacts.
When: Aug. 6, 2025, noon – 1:30 p.m. CST
Where: online
Register online.
ISA
Advanced Arboriculture And Tree Science
This in-depth, science and research-based course, designed for tree professionals and allied industries that work with and around trees, will include discussions of the latest training, techniques, science, research and tools. Approved for 6.5 CEU/HSW/PDH by the ISA, ASLA and SAF, and post-course credits by the NSPE, PLNA and NALP.
When: Aug. 1, 2025, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. CST
Where: online
Register online.
Tree Talk Tuesday Webinar
It is now recognized that trees and shrubs planted within towns and cities face a multitude of environmental stresses detrimental to their health. Drought and heat waves have become more predominant over the past few years, with record-high temperatures recorded worldwide annually. Consequently, inappropriate species selection can lead to short-lived planting schemes as thousands of plants degenerate and die as they fall victim to drought and/or heat. This talk will discuss how trees are selected for urban plantings and whether the right choices are being made. If not, what alternative options enable more appropriate species/site selection? Results from ongoing research trials by the author will show how many tree species possess superior drought and heat tolerance, which are underutilized in urban planting schemes. In addition, this talk will address important physiological characteristics within a tree that confer robustness to heat and drought stress and offer a means to identify tree species with inherent heat and drought tolerance.
When: Aug. 12, 2025, 11 a.m. – noon CST
Where: online
Register online.
Urban & Community Forestry Society
Mapping The Future Of Urban Forests: Explore The National Urban Tree Canopy Assessment And Planning Tool
For the first time ever, communities across the U.S. have access to utilizing high-resolution aerial imagery, and local, regional and nationwide urban tree canopy data—thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between the U.S. Forest Service, the Arbor Day Foundation and PlanIT Geo. This collaboration has launched the National Urban Tree Canopy Assessment and TreeCanopy.US, a transformative platform that integrates GIS data, an interactive map viewer and a planning tool to support equitable, data-driven urban forestry efforts.
The tool empowers all communities—from small towns to major metros—to better understand and manage their urban forests, giving users the ability to explore land cover statistics, development trends and individual tree canopies—all summarized at the census block group level. Looking ahead, expanded features, data updates and resources will launch in 2025, including a downloadable National Baseline Canopy Assessment Report offering a comprehensive snapshot of urban tree canopy across the U.S.
Access the platform and explore its capabilities.
When: Aug. 14, noon – 1 p.m.
Where: online
Register online.
Southeastern Wisconsin Invasive Species Consortium, Inc.
2025 Fall Invasive Plant Management Workshop
This is a hands-on, bring-your-own lunch class. After an introduction to the general ecology of the five functional groups of invasive plants (shrubs, perennial forbs, clonal perennials, grasses and annuals/biennials), participants will discuss, demonstrate and practice all applicable control methods (chemical and non-chemical) for these five plant types.
Topics will also include:
- Identification of our common and relatively new invaders
- Planning and strategy for an effective control program
- Use of hand tools and herbicide application methods
- Herbicide concentrations, mixing, and safety
- Restoration strategies for badly infested sites
- Native planting suggestions for continued restoration
- Record keeping
When: Sept. 13, 2025, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Havenwoods Environmental Awareness Center (6141 N. Hopkins St., Milwaukee, WI 53209)
Cost: $70
Register online starting Aug. 11, 2025.
Midwest Invasive Plant Network
2025 Webinar Series
This year’s webinar series will cover a variety of topics, including early detection, novel management efforts and biological interaction. These “lunch and learn” presentations will be offered at 11:30 a.m. Central Time.
The Crab Apple Conundrum
Presenters: Rebecca Scherr & Emma Farmer, The Dawes Arboretum
Learn about the work the Dawes Arboretum is undertaking to discover the genetic identity of the Malus variant that is expanding under the radar in Ohio and elsewhere, as well as their research on the best practices to manage infestations.
When: Aug. 26, 2025, 11:30 a.m.
Where: online
Register online.
Potential Biocontrol Options For Tree-Of-Heaven
Did you know that tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is the fastest-growing tree in North America? Tune in to learn about proposed biological control options for managing this difficult invasive plant. Management implications for the spread of spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) will also be discussed.
When: Sept. 10, 2025, 11:30 a.m.
Where: online
Register online.
Effects Of Invasive Woody Shrubs On Animal Behavior And Native Plants: Implications For Restoration
Presented by John Orrock, University of Wisconsin-Madison Professor.
When: Oct. 21, 2025, 11:30 a.m.
Where: online
Register online.
Deer And Invasive Plants: Impacts And Interactions
Presented by David Gorchov, Miami University Professor.
When: Nov. 12, 2025, 11:30 a.m.
Where: online
Register online.
Educational Resources Of The Month
Ohio State University Extension Arborist Fact Sheet
This fact sheet covers valuable information on the importance of hiring an arborist and tips on choosing an arborist best suited for the job.
Unsolicited Seeds And Other Packages
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection has been notified that some Wisconsin residents have received unsolicited packages in the mail that appear to have originated from China. These packages may contain seeds or other small items (jewelry, face masks, etc.). Similar packages have been received in other states. USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) urges anyone who receives an unsolicited package of seeds to complete the online Unsolicited Seeds Self-Reporting Form and follow the directions for mailing the seeds to:
USDA APHIS PPQ
1 Gifford Pinchot Dr.
Room 229
Madison, WI 53726