*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 and events, including urban wood, invasive species, tree rot and decay, beech leaf disease, connecting people to urban forestry and research presentations on pruning regimens, tree science and solar power. Continue reading “Upcoming Trainings”
Mature spongy moth larva on a tree at Potawatomi State Park in Door County, July 2025. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR
By Bill McNee, DNR Forest Health Specialist, Oshkosh
Bill.McNee@wisconsin.gov
Wisconsin’s recent period of high spongy moth populations (an “outbreak”) came to an end in 2025, as the remaining known hotspots were aerially sprayed or naturally collapsed. Only a handful of large larvae were observed or reported by property owners.
Spongy moth populations are likely to be low across the state for at least the next few years. However, it is possible that some sites may experience a population increase before then, if local weather conditions are favorable for the insect.
Continue reading “Increased Tree Mortality Seen As Spongy Moth Outbreak Ends”
The berries of round leaf bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) grow in clusters at each leaf axil and are beautiful, but this highly invasive plant makes it unsuitable for use in your fall decorations. / Photo Credit: Chris Evans, University of Illinois, Bugwood.org
By Wisconsin DNR
With the holiday season drawing near, it’s time for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to remind home crafters to be wary of using invasive plants in fall and winter decorations.
While holiday decorations made from natural materials can be beautiful, some wreaths and other home decorations may contain invasive species.
A quick Google or Pinterest search for décor ideas brings up a slew of orange-tinged images: pumpkins, leaves, pinecones and pretty fall foliage — sometimes boasting small, red-orange berries. While you can safely cloak your home in most of these items, avoid the one with the red-orange berries, as it likely comes from the non-native, woody vine called round leaf bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus, previously known as Oriental bittersweet).
Continue reading “Beware Of Invasive Plants In Your Holiday Décor”
An arborist uses climbing safety gear to prune an oak tree along a road. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR
By Mike Hillstrom, Forest Invasive Pest Coordinator, Fitchburg
Michael.Hilstrom@wisconsin.gov or 608-513-7690
Winter is an ideal time to perform trimming, cutting and brush removal work on and near trees, especially oak trees.
Winter is the best time to prune because the insects and diseases that attack oak trees, such as oak wilt, are not active. Pruning and other work can be done around oak trees from after the first hard freeze in the fall until the high-risk period for oak wilt begins in April.
Continue reading “Take Advantage Of Mild Winter Days To Prune Trees”
By Laura Buntrock, DNR Urban Forestry Partnership & Policy Specialist, Laura.Buntrock@wisconsin.gov or 608-294-0253
The online portal for Tree City USA (TCUSA) is now open, with applications due Dec. 31. If you’re new to TCUSA, you can learn more about the program on the Arbor Day Foundation’s (ADF) website or from your DNR Urban Forestry Coordinator. Please note that beginning this year, Arbor ADF is no longer accepting paper applications. You can create an account by clicking “sign up now” on the application portal login page. Within the online portal, you will have access to your historical data. More information is available on ADF’s FAQ page. Continue reading “Tree City USA – Online Portal Open, No More Paper Applications!”
Do you know of a person or organization that is making a difference in community forestry? Maybe it is a volunteer who spends their free time planting trees in the community or an organization that is committed to increasing tree diversity or a municipal employee who has dedicated their career to transforming a city’s urban forestry program. If so, please complete this short online nomination form to recognize them for their efforts! Continue reading “Reminder: Urban Forestry Council Award Nominations Due Oct. 31”
By Brian Wahl, DNR Urban Forestry Coordinator, Brian.Wahl@wisconsin.gov or 608-225-7943
A simple act, a science and an art, but bottom line – all trees need water (even in autumn)
It’s a very dry start to autumn this year. Heck, it’s been a dry second half of summer, but thanks to our lovely wet spring, we aren’t in a drought yet. However, areas of the state are “abnormally dry” according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. So be sure to get out there and water your newly planted trees! If you have the time, your established trees would appreciate a cool drink of H20 as well.
Are you responsible for tree care in your community? If so, please complete this survey to share the story of trees in your community. You can be an integral part of a 50-year data collection effort comparing tree activities across the country. Continue reading “Community Tree Care And Management Survey”
By Jay Dampier, DNR IRA Grant Coordinator, Jason.Dampier@wisconsin.gov or 920-765-1935
A tree planted with IRA funds is poised to provide shade over the parking lot at Mᶏᶏnᶏᶏpe Hocira – Ho-Chunk Veterans Housing Complex.
On a crisp spring morning in 2025, shovels break ground along a city street in Wisconsin. In another community, trees are being inventoried and assessed for risk. Elsewhere, a dangerous dead ash tree is being removed with a crane to make a neighborhood safer. It’s all part of a bold, three-year initiative made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and administered by the DNR’s Urban and Community Forestry Program. One year in, the thirteen grant-funded projects totaling $4 million are already taking root. Grantees include municipalities, tribes, nonprofits and one county. Grant awards range from under $100,000 to nearly $500,000 and are helping communities grow healthier, greener and more resilient. Together, these efforts are transforming neighborhoods and creating a legacy of shade, clean air and beautification across Wisconsin. Continue reading “Program Spotlight: DNR’s Inflation Reduction Act Funded Projects Taking Root”
Urban Wildlife Damage Abatement and Control grants help urban areas develop wildlife plans, implement specific damage abatement and/or control measures for white-tailed deer and/or Canada geese. They are available to any town, city, village, county or tribal government with a population density of not less than 125 persons per square mile. This grant provides a 50% cost share up to $5,000 for eligible costs. The application deadline is Dec. 1.
