The University of California Cooperative Extension Forest Stewardship team invites landowners whose forest has been affected by fire — along with early-career natural resource professionals — to enroll in a five-week postfire forest resilience workshop running weekly from April 30 to May 28.
“Whether you are a landowner looking to understand what treatments to pursue next or a natural resource professional seeking to learn more about postfire management and reforestation practices, this workshop is designed to help you navigate your options and effectively steward your forest for the future,” say organizers.
Organizers promise participants will gain practical experience and insight into managing their forests after wildfire events. Weekly sessions will be conducted via Zoom from 6 to 7:30 p.m., providing attendees with the resources and connections necessary to navigate postfire challenges. Workshop participants will also get the opportunity to see postfire treatments during an in-person field day Saturday, May 31.
The workshop will cover topics such as:
- Postfire reforestation practices
- Competing and resprouting vegetation
- Financial and professional assistance programs
- Ongoing forest maintenance
UCCE points out the this workshop also provides an opportunity for local landowners to meet the new forestry advisor for Plumas, Lassen and Sierra counties: Kane Russell.
Russell joined UC Agriculture and Natural Resources in January. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in forestry from UC Berkeley, where his graduate work analyzed the effects of prescribed burning on young Sierra Nevada mixed conifer stands. After graduation, Russell gained experience at UC Berkeley’s Blodgett Forest Research Station, and at Yosemite National Park managing a mechanical fuels reduction program.
Originally from Monterey, Russell’s introduction to the Sierra Nevada began at Berkeley’s forestry camp in Meadow Valley. He said he is excited to return to the place that sparked his passion for forestry and looks forward to collaborating with the dedicated individuals and organizations in the region.
To enhance learning, attendees will also have access to online resources for self-paced study, allowing them to complete learning modules at their convenience, say organizers. Registration for the five-week workshop is $25, and interested landowners can find more information and register at http://ucanr.edu/post-fireworkshops.
Additional information is available from Katie Reidy at [email protected].
UC Cooperative Extension provides research-based information and education to California residents to help address challenges in agriculture, natural resources and community development.
