Florida Land Steward News and Information

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 6/24/20

noreply@blogger.com (Florida Land Steward) — Wed, 24 Jun 2020 21:09:00 +0000

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD OPEN FOR 2020-2025 AMERICAN TREE FARM STANDARDS OF SUSTAINABILITY The American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) announced a second 60-day public comment period during the review process of the ATFS Standards of Sustainability. The ATFS Standards are the benchmark for all ATFS forest certifications and its national network of certified inspectors and certificate holders. All certifications are third-party audited.

During this review period, running until August 2, the public is encouraged to provide feedback on the proposed 2020-2025 Standards of Sustainability, which reflect comments submitted during a first public comment period, conducted earlier this year. In addition, the public is also invited to submit feedback on the Requirements for Independently Managed Groups (IMGs).

Read the full press release and access the information and comment form at: https://www.forestfoundation.org/atfs-standards-public-comment-period

SIGN UP FOR THE LONGLEAF PINE PRIVATE LANDOWNER INCENTIVE PROGRAM
Private forest landowners interested in establishing and managing a longleaf pine forest are encouraged to sign up. This enrollment period is open until July 8, 2020. The program offers landowners technical guidance and incentive payments for conducting certain approved forest management practices that help establish or improve longleaf pine stands. The program offers incentive payments for: longleaf pine seedling establishment, timber stand improvement, prescribed burning, native plant understory establishment, mechanical underbrush treatments, and invasive plant control treatments.

The Longleaf Pine Private Landowner Incentive Program application period is open through July 8th. The application form, 2020 Technical Guidelines booklet, and general information are available on the program webpage at: https://www.fdacs.gov/Divisions-Offices/Florida-Forest-Service/For-Landowners/Programs/Longleaf-Pine-Private-Landowner-Incentive-Program

For more information contact your Florida Forest Service County Forester or Jen Tucker-Jenks, Conservation Programs Manager, (850) 681-5874, Jennifer.Tucker-Jenks@FDACS.gov

FUNDING AVAILABLE FROM THE NATURE CONSERVANCY (TNC) TO TREAT COGONGRASS IN CENTRAL PANHANDLE REGION OF FLORIDATNC North Florida Program has received a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for 120 total acres of cogongrass treatment in counties surrounding the Apalachicola National Forest. Private landowners in Calhoun, Gadsden, and Liberty Counties who would like to be considered for this funding should contact Brian Pelc, (850) 222-0199 x103, bpelc@tnc.org

AGREEMENT REACHED ON HURRICANE MICHAEL STATE BLOCK GRANT NEGOTIATIONSThe State of Florida and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have announced the successful end of negotiations on the administration of $380.7 million in grant funding to help Florida’s timber industry recover following Hurricane Michael in 2018. It is expected that timber producers could begin to receive funding as soon as this fall. Read Governor Ron DeSantis’s press release here. See more details on the Florida Forestry Association’s 411 bulletin. We will post the latest information in Florida Land Steward Updates so stay tuned for sign-up details.

EMERGENCY FOREST RESTORATION PROGRAM DEADLINE FOR HURRICANE MICHAEL EXTENDED THROUGH OCTOBER 30, 2020The USDA Florida Farm Service Agency State Committee has authorized an additional six-month extension to the April 30, 2020, Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) and Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) late filed period. This allows producers impacted by Hurricane Michael to apply for assistance under EFRP and/or ECP and be considered timely if application is made by the new deadline of October 30, 2020. Contact your local FSA office to set up an appointment. Find your local FSA office here.

TAX TIPS FOR FOREST LANDOWNERS FOR THE 2019 TAX YEAR
The extended tax filing deadline is July 15 . The Federal income tax laws contain forestry-specific provisions that are important for those managing and conserving timber. This publication provides forest owners, foresters, loggers, and timber businesses a guide to the applicable Federal income tax laws, including the latest tax law changes, for filing 2019 tax returns. The information is not intended to render legal or accounting advice and is current as of September 30, 2019. Access the 2019 timber tax tips and more related information at https://www.timbertax.org/

FUNDING AVAILABLE TO COVER CONSULTANT FOREST STEWARDSHIP MANAGEMENT PLAN PREPARATIONThe Florida Forest Service has received funding to help cover the costs for private natural resource consultants to write Forest Stewardship plans covering hurricane resiliency and/or longleaf pine management. Eligible Stewardship plans must include information and recommendations related to: forest resilience and recovery following hurricanes, forest and landowner preparedness for hurricanes, and/or resources available to assist private forest landowners following hurricanes and/or longleaf pine establishment, restoration, improvement, and management for landowners with longleaf stands or those who want to establish longleaf pine on appropriate sites.

Compensation rates and additional information are provided in the Forest Stewardship Program Consultant Plan Preparation Agreement available at: https://forms.freshfromflorida.com/11268.pdf. This form also serves as the application for reimbursement. All applications that meet requirements as described above will be considered in the order in which they are received. Please contact Jennifer Tucker-Jenks at Jennifer.Tucker-Jenks@FreshFromFlorida.com or your county forester for more information. Find your county forester at https://www.freshfromflorida.com/CountyForester

PRESCRIBED BURN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FROM ATTACK-ONE FIRE MANAGEMENT SERVICES, TALL TIMBERS RESEARCH STATION, AND ALACHUA CONSERVATION TRUST

These organizations are available to meet onsite with landowners to discuss their goals and assist with prescribed burn prescription and implementation.

Attack-One Fire Management Services is grant-funded to assist landowners with current NRCS contracts with prescribed fire planning and implementation throughout Florida and Georgia. We can also assist landowners who have former NRCS contracts with prescribed fire consultation, planning and implementation with active Gopher Tortoise habitat present. For more information email Kevin Carter, kevin@attack-one.com or John McGuire, jmcguire@attack-one.com or call (850) 926-6534

Tall Timbers Research Station is now funded by a Longleaf Legacy Landscape project to provide fire consultation, planning, and implementation to private landowners in the Florida Panhandle from Pensacola to Lake City and in west Georgia as far north as the Chattahoochee Fall Line (Columbus, GA). Contact Jeremiah Cates, jcates@talltimbers.org , (850) 381-8707

Alachua Conservation Trust has a prescribed fire specialist available to assist private landowners with burn planning in Alachua, Putnam, Marion, Levy, Bradford, Clay and portions of Flagler, Volusia, Lake, Sumter, and Citrus Counties. Contact Barry Coulliette at act.barryc@gmail.com

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

Use this web tool to identify resources at a local watershed scale. The map is at this link: http://viewer.apps.pflcc.databasin.org/v1/index.html. More about this effort and how to use the tool here.

ONGOING INITIATIVES / SERVICES / OPPORTUNTIES

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD CALENDAR OF EVENTS

http://floridalandsteward.org/calendar.html

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

Use this web tool to identify resources and assistance at a local watershed scale. The map is at this link: http://viewer.apps.pflcc.databasin.org/v1/index.html.

More about this effort and how to use the tool here.

REPORT BOBWHITE QUAIL AND OTHER WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

To help restore the state’s northern bobwhite quail populations, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is asking private landowners to report sightings of bobwhite quail on their land. Report northern bobwhite quail sightings at MyFWC.com/QuailSighting

The FWC also seeks reports of these species:

Report chipmunk sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/chipmunk/getlatlong.aspx
Report panther sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/PantherSightings/getlatlong.aspx
Report mink sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/mink/getlatlong.aspx
Report black bear sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/blackbear/getlatlong.aspx
Report southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES? - CHECK OUT THE FOREST AND TREE HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS FORUM

Hosted by a group of forest and tree health specialists with Southeastern universities and agencies, we are here to help identify pests and diseases in your forest or your backyard, and to recommend a solution, if appropriate. Join the group and report your tree health issue!

Visit the new Forest Health Diagnostic forum on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/

FOREST STEWARDSHIP VIDEOS - VIEW AND SHARE!

All the videos are on the Florida Forest Stewardship Program home page:

http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forest_stewardship

GOT AN INVASIVE SPECIES PROBLEM?

Go to floridainvasives.org for information, assistance and partnership opportunities.

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON A PARTICULAR TOPIC?

Check the vast array of extension publications available through UF/IFAS on the EDIS publication site: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ Wow, there’s a publication about that?

UF/IFAS SCHOOL OF FOREST RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION EXTENSION PROGRAMS

See http://sfrc.ufl.edu/extension

FORESTRY AND NATURAL RESOURCES WEBINARS

For a calendar of upcoming webinars in a variety of land management topics see:

http://www.forestrywebinars.net/webinar-calendar/month#.T-zLkBhgZys.blogger

SOUTHERN REGION EXTENSION FORESTRY

See http://sref.info/ for the latest news, tools and offerings.

NEED A LOAN TO FUND CONSERVATION PROJECTS? CHECK OUT THE USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S GUARANTEED CONSERVATION LOAN PROGRAM

The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) guarantees loans to promote conservation practices on farms and ranches that help protect natural resources. The goal of FSA’s Conservation Loan (CL) program is to provide access to credit for farmers who need and want to implement conservation measures on their land, but do not have the “up front” funds available to implement these practices. For more information see this Conservation Loan Program Fact Sheet. Also see this table summarizing FSA farm loan opportunities.

The Conservation Contract Program is a program for eligible landowners that protects important natural resources and other sensitive areas while providing a debt management tool. A conservation contract is available to people with Farm Service Agency (FSA) direct loans secured by real estate. These individuals may qualify for a reduction of their FSA indebtedness in exchange for a conservation contract with a term of 50, 30 or 10 years. The conservation contract is a voluntary legal agreement that restricts the type and amount of development that may take place on portions of the landowner’s property. Contracts may be established on marginal cropland and other environmentally sensitive lands for conservation, recreation and wildlife purposes. For more information see this Conservation Contract Program Fact Sheet.

The FSA provides several types of farm loans. For more information on these opportunities, see the Florida FSA Website or contact your local FSA office to speak with a local representative.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 5/29/20

noreply@blogger.com (Florida Land Steward) — Fri, 29 May 2020 15:07:00 +0000

PREPARE YOUR PROPERTY FOR HURRICANE SEASON

The official start of hurricane season is this coming week, June 1 through November 30. As we have learned in recent years, powerful hurricanes can make their way inland and do considerable damage to forest and agricultural lands and enterprises. There is no way to fully prepare for major devastation in advance, but there are some strategies and steps you can take to prepare yourself and your land for a major storm and recover more smoothly. Get the tips in the Spring-Summer issue of the quarterly Florida Land Steward newsletter (direct link)

EMERGENCY FOREST RESTORATION PROGRAM DEADLINE FOR HURRICANE MICHAEL EXTENDED THROUGH OCTOBER 30, 2020
The USDA Florida Farm Service Agency State Committee has authorized an additional six-month extension to the April 30, 2020, Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) and Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) late filed period. This allows producers impacted by Hurricane Michael to apply for assistance under EFRP and/or ECP and be considered timely if application is made by the new deadline of October 30, 2020. Contact your local FSA office to set up an appointment. Find your local FSA office here.

State Block Grant Negotiations are Ongoing
Negotiations on the details of the federally authorized State Block Grant Program for Hurricane Michael timber losses are ongoing between the United States Department of Agriculture and the Florida Division of Emergency Management and Florida Forest Service. We will share the program details as soon as they are finalized. Florida Land Steward partners are planning a forest recovery webinar series when this assistance is available.

SIGNUP FOR CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM BY JUNE 1, 2020
The application deadline for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is June 1, 2020. Through CSP, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service helps agricultural producers and forest landowners earn payments for expanding conservation activities while maintaining agricultural production on their land. CSP also encourages adoption of new technologies and management techniques. While applications are accepted throughout the year, interested producers should submit applications to their local NRCS office by the deadline to ensure their applications are considered for 2020 funding. For additional information about CSP, contact your local USDA service center.

Florida Panther CSP: Ranchers in Southwest Florida are encouraged to apply for CSP so they can be paid to help the Florida panther. Apply by June 15. Contact District Conservationist Mitchell Aman at 863-674-5700 for more information.

CONSERVATIION ASSISTANCE FOR FLORIDA FARMERS AND RANCHERS IN 11 WEST FLORIDA COUNTIES
USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting applications from agricultural producers until June 15, 2020 for a Regional Conservation Partnership Program project that improves climate resiliency. NRCS will provide financial and technical assistance to eligible farmers and landowners toward conservation practices that improve natural resources in 11 Florida counties through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). Producers in the following counties are encouraged to apply: Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Wakulla, and Washington. The Climate Resiliency for Alabama, Florida and Georgia project in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint and Ochlockonee River Basins is led by the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District. The project area covers more than 15 million acres in eastern Alabama, western Georgia, and the Florida panhandle. For more information contact your local USDA service center

CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE FOR FOREST IMPROVEMENTS
Agricultural producers in Florida can apply for financial assistance until June 15 for a Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) project to improve forested lands from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). NRCS will provide financial and technical assistance to farmers, ranchers and landowners for conservation practices that improve forest ecosystems through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). For more information contact your local USDA service center. Contact Chakesha Harvey, 352-338-3425

ANNOUNCING STATE ACRES FOR WILDLIFE ENHANCEMNT (SAFE) INITIATIVE THROUGH USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM (CRP)
State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement allows producers to install practices that benefit high priority State wildlife conservation objectives by using targeted restoration of vital habitat. This effort is based on locally developed conservation proposals that address highest priority wildlife objectives. SAFE proposals may be developed and put forth by a Federal, State, or local agency, or by a private organization. Ideally, all partners will develop proposals under a cooperative and collaborative agreement. For more details see this USDA fact sheet about the SAFE initiative. Submit proposals by June 19, 2020. Please direct questions to Amy Roller, Agriculture Program Specialist, Farm Service Agency, amy.roller@usda.gov, 352-379-4520.

TAX TIPS FOR FOREST LANDOWNERS FOR THE 2019 TAX YEAR
The extended tax filing deadline is July 15 . The Federal income tax laws contain forestry-specific provisions that are important for those managing and conserving timber. This publication provides forest owners, foresters, loggers, and timber businesses a guide to the applicable Federal income tax laws, including the latest tax law changes, for filing 2019 tax returns. The information is not intened to render legal or accounting advice and is current as of September 30, 2019. Access the 2019 timber tax tips and more related information at https://www.timbertax.org/

PRESCRIBED BURN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FROM ATTACK-ONE FIRE MANAGEMENT SERVICES, TALL TIMBERS RESEARCH STATION, AND ALACHUA CONSERVATION TRUST

These organizations are available to meet onsite with landowners to discuss their goals and assist with prescribed burn prescription and implementation.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

ONGOING INITIATIVES / SERVICES / OPPORTUNTIES

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD CALENDAR OF EVENTS

http://floridalandsteward.org/calendar.html

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

Use this web tool to identify resources and assistance at a local watershed scale. The map is at this link: http://viewer.apps.pflcc.databasin.org/v1/index.html.

More about this effort and how to use the tool here.

REPORT BOBWHITE QUAIL AND OTHER WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

The FWC also seeks reports of these species:

Report chipmunk sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/chipmunk/getlatlong.aspx
Report panther sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/PantherSightings/getlatlong.aspx
Report mink sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/mink/getlatlong.aspx
Report black bear sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/blackbear/getlatlong.aspx
Report southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES? - CHECK OUT THE FOREST AND TREE HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS FORUM

Visit the new Forest Health Diagnostic forum on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/

FOREST STEWARDSHIP VIDEOS - VIEW AND SHARE!

All the videos are on the Florida Forest Stewardship Program home page:

http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forest_stewardship

GOT AN INVASIVE SPECIES PROBLEM?

Go to floridainvasives.org for information, assistance and partnership opportunities.

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON A PARTICULAR TOPIC?

Check the vast array of extension publications available through UF/IFAS on the EDIS publication site: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ Wow, there’s a publication about that?

UF/IFAS SCHOOL OF FOREST RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION EXTENSION PROGRAMS

See http://sfrc.ufl.edu/extension

FORESTRY AND NATURAL RESOURCES WEBINARS

For a calendar of upcoming webinars in a variety of land management topics see:

http://www.forestrywebinars.net/webinar-calendar/month#.T-zLkBhgZys.blogger

SOUTHERN REGION EXTENSION FORESTRY

See http://sref.info/ for the latest news, tools and offerings.

NEED A LOAN TO FUND CONSERVATION PROJECTS? CHECK OUT THE USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S GUARANTEED CONSERVATION LOAN PROGRAM

The FSA provides several types of farm loans. For more information on these opportunities, see the Florida FSA Website or contact your local FSA office to speak with a local representative.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 5/15/20

noreply@blogger.com (Florida Land Steward) — Thu, 14 May 2020 17:37:00 +0000

STAYING CONNECTED: WILDLIFE IN ACTION AT WETLAND PRESERVE
This week's feature comes from Ashley Pardee, daughter of Ben and Louann Williams, Florida Tree Farmers and 2019 Florida Land Stewards of the Year. Ashley put together a nice video featuring some of the wildlife they enjoy at their Wetland Preserve property in Putnam County. This video blends game camera footage with music and some informative text about the many services provided by working forests.

The video also promotes certified forest products and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI). Remember that all wood harvested on forests certified in the American Tree Farm System, like Wetland Preserve, are part of the SFI chain of custody. The products you buy with the SFI label are produced with material grown on certified Tree Farms. Look for the SFI label shown in the video. Note that the video also features the label of another forest certification program, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). See Ashley's video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/LbFY8cdnB-w

SPRING-SUMMER ISSUE OF THE QUARTERLY FLORIDA LAND STEWARD NEWSLETTER NOW AVAILABLE
In this issue: Hurricane Preparation Tips, Sighting Northern Bobwhite Quail on Florida's Privately-Owned Lands, ACF Consultant Corner: Alternative Incomes for Forest Landowners, Timber Price Update, Certified Landowner Recognition, Events Calendar

Access the current and back issues of the quarterly Florida Land Steward Newsletter here.

JOIN UF/IFAS PANHANDLE OUTDOORS LIVE FOR FLORIDA INVASIVE SPECIES AWARENESS WEEK, MAY 18-22
Next week (May 18-22) is Florida Invasive Species Awareness Week. The UF/IFAS Panhandle Outdoors team will be broadcasting invasive topics and information on Facebook LIVE each day at https://www.facebook.com/PanhandleOutdoorsNews/ beginning at 9:00 AM CDT (10:00 AM EDT).

Broadcast schedule:

Mon May 18 – The Opening Kick-Off; join UF/IFAS extension agents as we discuss, and answer questions, on the invasive species issue in general, and in the panhandle. Will also discuss some of the terminology.

Tue May 19 – Giant Salvinia; this is a problem plant in some of the ponds in the Florida panhandle. One we would like to eliminate. Learn more about the plant and how to manage.
Wed May 20 – Feral Hogs; these guys are a problem everywhere.
Thu May 21 – Regal Demoiselle; this is a new non-native fish in the Gulf. We hope to educate everyone what it looks like and help us report them for management.
Fri May 22 – The Wrap Up; we will discussing how you can help report and remove these, and other invasive species from your yards or community parks.

Join the series at https://www.facebook.com/PanhandleOutdoorsNews/

NATIONAL STAY-AT-HOME WEED WRANGLE CHALLENGE - CONTROL INVASIVE PLANTS AT YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY
Quarantine means time at home and your Weed Wrangle® partners are getting out into our own yards! We challenge you to choose that one invasive plant, in your own space that has been nagging at you. Plan and implement a mission to eradicate it in the next two weeks. If you need help on how to manage your Invasives-at-Home, we are here to help. Let's free our neighborhoods from invasive plants! The Stay-at-Home Weed Wrangle® is a Nationwide event and anyone can join. When you have completed the work, share a before and after photograph to info@weedwrangle.org and they will post them on their Instagram and Facebook pages. Stay-at-Home and Weed Wrangle® to remove invasives and restore your habitat for native plants and wildlife. info@weedwrangle.org | weedwrangle.org

SIGNUP FOR CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM BY JUNE 1, 2020
The application deadline for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is June 1, 2020. Through CSP, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service helps agricultural producers and forest landowners earn payments for expanding conservation activities while maintaining agricultural production on their land. CSP also encourages adoption of new technologies and management techniques. While applications are accepted throughout the year, interested producers should submit applications to their local NRCS office by the deadline to ensure their applications are considered for 2020 funding. For additional information about CSP, contact your local USDA service center.

Florida Panther CSP: Ranchers in Southwest Florida are encouraged to apply for CSP so they can be paid to help the Florida panther. Apply by June 15. Contact District Conservationist Mitchell Aman at 863-674-5700 for more information.

CONSERVATIION ASSISTANCE FOR FLORIDA FARMERS AND RANCHERS IN 11 WEST FLORIDA COUNTIES
USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting applications from agricultural producers until June 15, 2020 for a Regional Conservation Partnership Program project that improves climate resiliency. NRCS will provide financial and technical assistance to eligible farmers and landowners toward conservation practices that improve natural resources in 11 Florida counties through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). Producers in the following counties are encouraged to apply: Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Wakulla, and Washington. The Climate Resiliency for Alabama, Florida and Georgia project in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint and Ochlockonee River Basins is led by the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District. The project area covers more than 15 million acres in eastern Alabama, western Georgia, and the Florida panhandle. For more information contact your local USDA service center

CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE FOR FOREST IMPROVEMENTS
Agricultural producers, ranchers, and landowners in Florida can apply for financial assistance until June 15 for a Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) project to improve forested lands from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). NRCS will provide financial and technical assistance to farmers, ranchers and landowners for conservation practices that improve forest ecosystems through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). For more information contact your local USDA service center. Contact Chakesha Harvey, 352-338-3425

ANNOUNCING STATE ACRES FOR WILDLIFE ENHANCEMNT (SAFE) INITIATIVE THROUGH USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM (CRP)
State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement allows producers to install practices that benefit high priority State wildlife conservation objectives by using targeted restoration of vital habitat. This cooperative conservation effort is based on locally developed conservation proposals that address highest priority wildlife objectives. SAFE proposals may be developed and put forth by a Federal, State, or local agency, or by a private organization. Ideally, all partners will develop proposals under a cooperative and collaborative agreement. For more details see this USDA fact sheet about the SAFE initiative. Submit proposals by June 19, 2020. Please direct questions to Amy Roller, Agriculture Program Specialist, Farm Service Agency, amy.roller@usda.gov, 352-379-4520.

TAX TIPS FOR FOREST LANDOWNERS FOR THE 2019 TAX YEAR
We have an additional three months to file taxes amid the coronavirus pandemic. The tax filing deadline is July 15 . The Federal income tax laws contain forestry-specific provisions that are important for those managing and conserving timber. This publication provides forest owners, foresters, loggers, and timber businesses a guide to the applicable Federal income tax laws, including the latest tax law changes, for filing 2019 tax returns. The information is not intended to render legal or accounting advice and is current as of September 30, 2019. Access the 2019 timber tax tips and more related information at https://www.timbertax.org/

CAMP KIDS IN THE WOODS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA'S AUSTIN CARY FOREST

Due to COVID-19, we have concluded that we need to cancel all three sessions of Camp Kids in the Woods this summer. We plan to be back better than ever next year and hope you will join us in 2021.

Camp Kids in the Woods summer program is a collaborative effort between the University of Florida’s School of Forest Resources and Conservation and the USDA Forest Service.

For more information visit: https://www.campkidsinthewoods.org/ To contact the Camp Director, Molly Disabb, email kidsinthewoods@ifas.ufl.edu or call 352-378-2451.

PRESCRIBED BURN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FROM ATTACK-ONE FIRE MANAGEMENT SERVICES, TALL TIMBERS RESEARCH STATION, AND ALACHUA CONSERVATION TRUST

These organizations are available to meet onsite with landowners to discuss their goals and assist with prescribed burn prescription and implementation.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

ONGOING INITIATIVES / SERVICES / OPPORTUNTIES

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD CALENDAR OF EVENTS

http://floridalandsteward.org/calendar.html

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

Use this web tool to identify resources and assistance at a local watershed scale. The map is at this link: http://viewer.apps.pflcc.databasin.org/v1/index.html.

More about this effort and how to use the tool here.

REPORT BOBWHITE QUAIL AND OTHER WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

The FWC also seeks reports of these species:

Report chipmunk sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/chipmunk/getlatlong.aspx
Report panther sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/PantherSightings/getlatlong.aspx
Report mink sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/mink/getlatlong.aspx
Report black bear sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/blackbear/getlatlong.aspx
Report southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES? - CHECK OUT THE FOREST AND TREE HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS FORUM

Visit the new Forest Health Diagnostic forum on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/

FOREST STEWARDSHIP VIDEOS - VIEW AND SHARE!

All the videos are on the Florida Forest Stewardship Program home page:

http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forest_stewardship

GOT AN INVASIVE SPECIES PROBLEM?

Go to floridainvasives.org for information, assistance and partnership opportunities.

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON A PARTICULAR TOPIC?

Check the vast array of extension publications available through UF/IFAS on the EDIS publication site: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ Wow, there’s a publication about that?

UF/IFAS SCHOOL OF FOREST RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION EXTENSION PROGRAMS

See http://sfrc.ufl.edu/extension

FORESTRY AND NATURAL RESOURCES WEBINARS

For a calendar of upcoming webinars in a variety of land management topics see:

http://www.forestrywebinars.net/webinar-calendar/month#.T-zLkBhgZys.blogger

SOUTHERN REGION EXTENSION FORESTRY

See http://sref.info/ for the latest news, tools and offerings.

NEED A LOAN TO FUND CONSERVATION PROJECTS? CHECK OUT THE USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S GUARANTEED CONSERVATION LOAN PROGRAM

The FSA provides several types of farm loans. For more information on these opportunities, see the Florida FSA Website or contact your local FSA office to speak with a local representative.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 5/1/20

noreply@blogger.com (Florida Land Steward) — Fri, 01 May 2020 15:56:00 +0000

NOMINATIONS SOUGHT FOR 2020 FLORIDA OUTSTANDING TREE FARMER OF THE YEAR

The Florida Tree Farm Program is seeking nominations for the 2020 Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year. Landowners in the Tree Farm Program can discuss the nomination process with their Tree Farm Inspector or Florida Forest Service County Forester. Inspectors are reminded to turn in their nominations to Ginger.Morgan@MyFWC.com by May 8, 2020. Thanks for your participation in this process.

STAYING CONNECTED: HELEN AND TOM ROTH FEATURED ON WILD WANDER VIDEO SERIES
This week we revisit our 2015 Florida Land Stewards of the Year, Helen and Tom Roth, who were featured on the final episode of the Wild Wander video series. Enjoy a virtual visit to Helen and Tom's Spring Canyon property in Gadsden County and learn about their longleaf pine ecosystem restoration efforts in this episode: Wild Wander - Citizen Ecosystem Restoration

This episode was made possible by the generous support Tall Timbers Research Station & Land Conservancy. Tall Timbers is the home of fire ecology, and has worked for over fifty years to promote prescribed fire, wildlife research, and operate as land trusts. They've permanently protected and helped manage hundreds of thousands of acres, right in the heart of the longleaf pine's range. As an exciting side note, Tom and Helen are working with Tall Timbers to secure a conservation easement on their property, which will permanently protect their little slice of the longleaf pine ecosystem forever. For more information on Tall Timbers, and their dedication to protecting the longleaf pine ecosystem, visit talltimbers.org.

Your one-stop link for all the Florida Land Steward Partner contacts you need to get some assistance in your land management efforts: http://floridalandsteward.org/contacts.html

NATIONAL STAY-AT-HOME WEED WRANGLE CHALLENGE - CONTROL INVASIVE PLANTS AT YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY
Quarantine means time at home and your Weed Wrangle® partners are getting out into our own yards! We challenge you to choose that one invasive plant, in your own space that has been nagging at you. Plan and implement a mission to eradicate it in the next two weeks. If you need help on how to manage your Invasives-at-Home, we are here to help. Let's free our neighborhoods from invasive plants!

The Stay-at-Home Weed Wrangle® is a Nationwide event and anyone can join. Attached are two Jpeg logos for your use when inviting all to participate. Feel free to edit and post to your social media accounts. When you have completed the work, share a before and after, photograph to info@weedwrangle.org and we will post them on our Instagram and Facebook pages.

Stay-at-Home and Weed Wrangle® to remove invasives and restore your habitat for native plants and wildlife.

info@weedwrangle.org
weedwrangle.org

ANNOUNCING STATE ACRES FOR WILDLIFE ENHANCEMNT (SAFE) INITIATIVE THROUGH USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM (CRP)
State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement allows producers to install practices that benefit high priority State wildlife conservation objectives by using targeted restoration of vital habitat. This cooperative conservation effort is based on locally developed conservation proposals that address highest priority wildlife objectives. SAFE proposals may be developed and put forth by a Federal, State, or local agency, or by a private organization. Ideally, all partners will develop proposals under a cooperative and collaborative agreement. For more details see this USDA fact sheet about the SAFE initiative. Submit proposals by June 19, 2020. Please direct questions to Amy Roller, Agriculture Program Specialist, Farm Service Agency, amy.roller@usda.gov, 352-379-4520.

TAX TIPS FOR FOREST LANDOWNERS FOR THE 2019 TAX YEAR
The extended tax filing deadline is July 15 .
The Federal income tax laws contain forestry-specific provisions that are important for those managing and conserving timber. This publication provides forest owners, foresters, loggers, and timber businesses a guide to the applicable Federal income tax laws, including the latest tax law changes, for filing 2019 tax returns. The information is not intended to render legal or accounting advice and is current as of September 30, 2019. Access the 2019 timber tax tips and more related information at https://www.timbertax.org/

USDA ANNOUNCES SIGNUP FOR CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM
The application deadline for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is June 1, 2020. Through CSP, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service helps agricultural producers and forest landowners earn payments for expanding conservation activities while maintaining agricultural production on their land. CSP also encourages adoption of new technologies and management techniques.

Changes in the 2018 Farm Bill authorizes NRCS to accept new CSP enrollments from now until 2023, and it makes some improvements to the program. These updates include: NRCS now enrolls eligible, high-ranking applications based on dollars rather than acres; for fiscal 2020, NRCS in Florida can spend up to $7 million in the program, which covers part of the cost for producers implementing new conservation activities and maintaining their existing activities; higher payment rates are now available for certain conservation activities, including cover crops and resource conserving crop rotations; the annual payment limitation of $40,000 no longer applies.

While applications are accepted throughout the year, interested producers should submit applications to their local NRCS office by the deadline to ensure their applications are considered for 2020 funding. For additional information about CSP, contact your local USDA service center. Offices are currently operating by phone only. https://www.farmers.gov/coronavirus

2020 AG LAND CONSERVATION EASEMENT SIGNUP EXTENDED TO MAY 6
Applications to fund agricultural easements in Florida are now being accepted until May 6 (deadline extended). USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides financial and technical assistance to conserve working lands and wetlands through two programs: Agricultural Land Easements a nd Wetland Reserve Easements. Although applications are accepted on a continuous basis, funding selections are typically made once a year. Agricultural landowners and Indian tribes can apply for a Wetland Reserve Easement to restore wetlands, protect wildlife habitat and recharge groundwater on their property. Eligible landowners can enroll in a permanent or 30-year easement. NRCS provides financial assistance to conservation partners to purchase an Agricultural Land Easement that protects the agricultural use of cropland, rangeland, grassland, pastureland and nonindustrial private forestland.

Contact Crenel Francis at 352-338-9508 for questions and submissions.

CAMP KIDS IN THE WOODS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA'S AUSTIN CARY FOREST

Is your 10-14 year old child looking for fun adventure this summer? Consider Camp Kids in the Woods! Campers will conduct various field explorations led by local scientists from forestry, wildlife, and water resources. Highlights include activities in fishing, wildlife handling, tree identification, fire ecology, exploring local ecosystems, a trip to a spring, camping out one night at the Austin Cary Forest, building wildlife nesting boxes, and participating in games and scavenger hunts. After a week of fun in the forest, campers gain a better understanding and deeper appreciation of their natural world and what is required to be a good steward of the environment. Camp Kids in the Woods summer program is a collaborative effort between the University of Florida’s School of Forest Resources and Conservation and the USDA Forest Service.

Dates: Session 1: June 1-5; Session 2: June 8-12; Session 3: June 22-26

Ages: 10-14 year olds

Hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Free extended hours available to help fit your schedule.

Location: Austin Cary Forest, 10625 NE Waldo Rd, Gainesville, FL 32609. Shuttle service that picks up and drops off at Westside Park available for a small fee.

Cost: $275/Session. If you sign up for two sessions, we offer a 10% discount. We also have partial scholarships available, please contact Molly Disabb for more information.

For more information visit: www.campkidsinthewoods.org and to register visit: http://reg.conferences.dce.ufl.edu/Basic/1400075863To contact the Camp Director Molly Disabb, email kidsinthewoods@ifas.ufl.edu or call 352-378-2451.

PRESCRIBED BURN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FROM ATTACK-ONE FIRE MANAGEMENT SERVICES, TALL TIMBERS RESEARCH STATION, AND ALACHUA CONSERVATION TRUST

These organizations are available to meet onsite with landowners to discuss their goals and assist with prescribed burn prescription and implementation.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

ONGOING INITIATIVES / SERVICES / OPPORTUNTIES

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD CALENDAR OF EVENTS

http://floridalandsteward.org/calendar.html

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

Use this web tool to identify resources and assistance at a local watershed scale. The map is at this link: http://viewer.apps.pflcc.databasin.org/v1/index.html.

More about this effort and how to use the tool here.

REPORT BOBWHITE QUAIL AND OTHER WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

The FWC also seeks reports of these species:

Report chipmunk sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/chipmunk/getlatlong.aspx
Report panther sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/PantherSightings/getlatlong.aspx
Report mink sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/mink/getlatlong.aspx
Report black bear sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/blackbear/getlatlong.aspx
Report southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES? - CHECK OUT THE FOREST AND TREE HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS FORUM

Visit the new Forest Health Diagnostic forum on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/

FOREST STEWARDSHIP VIDEOS - VIEW AND SHARE!

All the videos are on the Florida Forest Stewardship Program home page:

http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forest_stewardship

GOT AN INVASIVE SPECIES PROBLEM?

Go to floridainvasives.org for information, assistance and partnership opportunities.

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON A PARTICULAR TOPIC?

Check the vast array of extension publications available through UF/IFAS on the EDIS publication site: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ Wow, there’s a publication about that?

UF/IFAS SCHOOL OF FOREST RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION EXTENSION PROGRAMS

See http://sfrc.ufl.edu/extension

FORESTRY AND NATURAL RESOURCES WEBINARS

For a calendar of upcoming webinars in a variety of land management topics see:

http://www.forestrywebinars.net/webinar-calendar/month#.T-zLkBhgZys.blogger

SOUTHERN REGION EXTENSION FORESTRY

See http://sref.info/ for the latest news, tools and offerings.

NEED A LOAN TO FUND CONSERVATION PROJECTS? CHECK OUT THE USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S GUARANTEED CONSERVATION LOAN PROGRAM

The FSA provides several types of farm loans. For more information on these opportunities, see the Florida FSA Website or contact your local FSA office to speak with a local representative.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 4/24/20

noreply@blogger.com (Florida Land Steward) — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 15:29:00 +0000

Photo by Alicia Halbritter

STAYING CONNECTED - AN UPDATE FROM THE NORTH FLORIDA PRESCRIBED BURN ASSOCIATION

In an effort to maintain connections with and between landowners during this time of social distancing and remote learning, we are featuring a series of brief highlights of activities happening on private lands. This week's feature is an update on the North
Florida Prescribed Burn Association (NFPBA).

The NFPBA's purpose is to facilitate the safe and effective use of prescribed fire by promoting landowner cooperation and providing the resources, education, and training necessary to return fire to its place as a tool for ecosystem maintenance. Thanks to outstanding leadership, dedication, and member participation, the group has reached a level of organization, recognition, and operational competence to make greater strides toward this mission.

Ben Williams, Putnam County landowner, Tree Farmer, Forest Steward, and 2019 Florida Land Steward of the Year, serves as the current President of the NFPBA. He shares credit for the the success of the organization with this team that includes distinguished landowners and fellow Tree Farmers, Charlie Farr and Doug Moore; as well as several natural resource and extension professionals dedicated to the safe and effective use of prescribed fire. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provided tremendous initiative in organizing the initial meetings to get the organization started. He also credits the forecasts and tools provided by National Weather Service.

The NFPBA recently released their Fire in the Pines Newsletter, a cooperative newsletter published quarterly to inform and engage NFPBA members, potential members, and those with a general interest in prescribed burn related topics. Read Ben's update, an article about a successful prescribed burn in a longleaf pine forest restoration area at Charlie Farr's property in St. Johns County (including great photos), and more in the Fire in the Pines Newsletter.

More information about the NFPBA is available at their website: http://www.northfloridapba.org/

STAY SAFE AND KEEP DISTANT
WEBINARS are where it's at: See the Forestry and Natural Resources Webinar calendar.

FOREST AND TREE HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS ONLINE

By Sarah Tobing, ProForest and UF/ IFAS School of Forest Resources and Conservation

Is something bugging your trees? The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension offices closed to the public on March 16, 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. But there is a place open 24 hours a day where you can ask tree and forest health questions - Southern Forest Tree Health Diagnostics is a group on Facebook. The group is open to anyone with a Facebook account. It is managed by professionals in forestry, extension, entomology and forest health in the southeastern U.S. Here is the full web address: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/.

How does it work? First, you encounter the unknown, it could be a new insect or an unexplainable ooze leaking from your tree. Then you snap a couple of photos of the unknown tree or forest health issue. Next, you join Southern Forest Tree Health Diagnostics on Facebook. Then you post your photos along with a detailed description of what’s happening, where, and questions. Within hours, a local expert or two will respond to your post with an answer and a recommendation for a solution.

Photo by Jiri Hulcr

Contact Crenel Francis at 352-338-9508 for questions and submissions.

HURRICANE RECOVERY: EMERGENCY FOREST RESTORATION PROGRAM DEADLINE EXTENDED TO APRIL 30

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Florida Farm Service Agency State Committee authorized an extension to the USDA Farm Service Agency’s Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) late filing period. This will allow timber producers impacted by Hurricane Michael to apply for assistance under EFRP if the application is received by the new deadline of April 30, 2020. Find your USDA Service Center here.

CAMP KIDS IN THE WOODS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA'S AUSTIN CARY FOREST

Dates: Session 1: June 1-5; Session 2: June 8-12; Session 3: June 22-26

Ages: 10-14 year olds

Hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Free extended hours available to help fit your schedule.

Location: Austin Cary Forest, 10625 NE Waldo Rd, Gainesville, FL 32609. Shuttle service that picks up and drops off at Westside Park available for a small fee.

Cost: $275/Session. If you sign up for two sessions, we offer a 10% discount. We also have partial scholarships available, please contact Molly Disabb for more information.

PRESCRIBED BURN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FROM ATTACK-ONE FIRE MANAGEMENT SERVICES, TALL TIMBERS RESEARCH STATION, AND ALACHUA CONSERVATION TRUST

These organizations are available to meet onsite with landowners to discuss their goals and assist with prescribed burn prescription and implementation.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

ONGOING INITIATIVES / SERVICES / OPPORTUNTIES

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD CALENDAR OF EVENTS

http://floridalandsteward.org/calendar.html

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

Use this web tool to identify resources and assistance at a local watershed scale. The map is at this link: http://viewer.apps.pflcc.databasin.org/v1/index.html.

More about this effort and how to use the tool here.

REPORT BOBWHITE QUAIL AND OTHER WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

The FWC also seeks reports of these species:

Report chipmunk sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/chipmunk/getlatlong.aspx
Report panther sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/PantherSightings/getlatlong.aspx
Report mink sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/mink/getlatlong.aspx
Report black bear sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/blackbear/getlatlong.aspx
Report southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES? - CHECK OUT THE FOREST AND TREE HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS FORUM

Visit the new Forest Health Diagnostic forum on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/

FOREST STEWARDSHIP VIDEOS - VIEW AND SHARE!

All the videos are on the Florida Forest Stewardship Program home page:

http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forest_stewardship

GOT AN INVASIVE SPECIES PROBLEM?

Go to floridainvasives.org for information, assistance and partnership opportunities.

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON A PARTICULAR TOPIC?

Check the vast array of extension publications available through UF/IFAS on the EDIS publication site: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ Wow, there’s a publication about that?

UF/IFAS SCHOOL OF FOREST RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION EXTENSION PROGRAMS

See http://sfrc.ufl.edu/extension

FORESTRY AND NATURAL RESOURCES WEBINARS

For a calendar of upcoming webinars in a variety of land management topics see:

http://www.forestrywebinars.net/webinar-calendar/month#.T-zLkBhgZys.blogger

SOUTHERN REGION EXTENSION FORESTRY

See http://sref.info/ for the latest news, tools and offerings.

NEED A LOAN TO FUND CONSERVATION PROJECTS? CHECK OUT THE USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S GUARANTEED CONSERVATION LOAN PROGRAM

The FSA provides several types of farm loans. For more information on these opportunities, see the Florida FSA Website or contact your local FSA office to speak with a local representative.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 4/17/20

noreply@blogger.com (Florida Land Steward) — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 18:02:00 +0000

Photo by Mike Adams

STAYING CONNECTED

Since 1989, Mike and Carole Adams have owned and resided on a 94-acre forestry/longleaf pine restoration/wildlife/education operation. They call it Saturiwa Conservation Area, named after a powerful local Timucuan Indian chief. The property was certified as a Stewardship Forest in 1995 and is also certified in the American Tree Farm System.

The land is strategically located on the St. Johns River between St. Augustine and Palatka. It is embedded in an overall larger conservation lands area of about 7,000 acres owned and managed by St. Johns County, St. Johns River Water Management District, and Jacksonville Port Authority.

More information and resources for those interested in honey bees: https://flsteward.blogspot.com/2020/04/staying-connected-honey-bees-at-mike.html

WEBINARS are where it's at: See the Forestry and Natural Resources Webinar calendar.

FOREST AND TREE HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS CONTINUE ONLINE

By Sarah Tobing, ProForest and UF/ IFAS School of Forest Resources and Conservation
Is something bugging your trees? The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension offices closed to the public on March 16, 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. But there is a place open 24 hours a day where you can ask tree and forest health questions - Southern Forest Tree Health Diagnostics is a group on Facebook. The group is open to anyone with a Facebook account. It is managed by professionals in forestry, extension, entomology and forest health in the southeastern U.S. Here is the full web address: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/.

How does it work? First, you encounter the unknown, it could be a new insect or an unexplainable ooze leaking from your tree. Then you snap a couple of photos of the unknown tree or forest health issue. Next, you join Southern Forest Tree Health Diagnostics on Facebook. Then you post your photos along with a detailed description of what’s happening, where, and questions. Within hours, a local expert or two will respond to your post with an answer and a recommendation for a solution.

Photo by Jiri Hulcr

Here’s an example. Question: What is this funky looking orange squiggly blob on this sand pine branch? Answer: That’s fusiform rust, a native fungus-caused disease. My management recommendation depends on where this tree is in the landscape, please follow-up with more photos.
Beyond being an online space to ask experts diagnostic questions, Southern Forest Tree Health Diagnostics is a place to virtually gather with other forest and land stewards. As of April 2020, the group has over 1,200 members. These members include foresters, consultants, state employees, educators, state agents, students, ranchers, and more.

If like me, you are shy on social media, that is not a problem. I am a self-admitted “lurker”, someone who hangs out in the group’s page but does not post questions or answers. I still find a lot of value in being a part of the group because I have learned about tree diseases and insects by looking at photos and questions that other group members post.

In Florida, spring is a great time to be outside. If you notice something weird or unexplained on your tree or forest, snap a photo, hop online and post it on the Southern Forest Tree Health Diagnostics Facebook page. During this time of social isolation, we still have options to reach out and interact with experts in tree and forest health.

Sarah Tobing is the program coordinator for ProForest, a multi-institutional collaborative that working to get ahead of threats to forest health and resilience through research, extension and education. Find out more here http://proforesthealth.org/.

TAX TIPS FOR FOREST LANDOWNERS FOR THE 2019 TAX YEAR
The extended tax filing deadline is July 15 .
The Federal income tax laws contain forestry-specific provisions that are important for those managing and conserving timber. This publication provides forest owners, foresters, loggers, and timber businesses a guide to the applicable Federal income tax laws, including the latest tax law changes, for filing 2019 tax returns. The information is not intended to render legal or accounting advice and is current as of September 30, 2019. Access the 2019 timber tax tips and more related information at https://www.timbertax.org/

USDA ANNOUNCES SIGNUP FOR CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM
The application deadline for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is June 1, 2020. Through CSP, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service helps agricultural producers and forest landowners earn payments for expanding conservation activities while maintaining agricultural production on their land. CSP also encourages adoption of new technologies and management techniques.

Contact Crenel Francis at 352-338-9508 for questions and submissions.

HURRICANE RECOVERY: EMERGENCY FOREST RESTORATION PROGRAM DEADLINE EXTENDED TO APRIL 30
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Florida Farm Service Agency State Committee authorized an extension to the USDA Farm Service Agency’s Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) late filing period. This will allow timber producers impacted by Hurricane Michael to apply for assistance under EFRP if the application is received by the new deadline of April 30, 2020. Find your USDA Service Center here.

HURRICANE RECOVERY: EMERGENCY FOREST RESTORATION PROGRAM DEADLINE EXTENDED TO APRIL 30
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Florida Farm Service Agency State Committee authorized an extension to the USDA Farm Service Agency’s Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) late filing period. This will allow timber producers impacted by Hurricane Michael to apply for assistance under EFRP if the application is received by the new deadline of April 30, 2020. Find your USDA Service Center here.

CAMP KIDS IN THE WOODS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA'S AUSTIN CARY FOREST
Is your 10-14 year old child looking for fun adventure this summer? Consider Camp Kids in the Woods! Campers will conduct various field explorations led by local scientists from forestry, wildlife, and water resources. Highlights include activities in fishing, wildlife handling, tree identification, fire ecology, exploring local ecosystems, a trip to a spring, camping out one night at the Austin Cary Forest, building wildlife nesting boxes, and participating in games and scavenger hunts. After a week of fun in the forest, campers gain a better understanding and deeper appreciation of their natural world and what is required to be a good steward of the environment. Camp Kids in the Woods summer program is a collaborative effort between the University of Florida’s School of Forest Resources and Conservation and the USDA Forest Service.

Dates: Session 1: June 1-5; Session 2: June 8-12; Session 3: June 22-26
Ages: 10-14 year olds
Hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Free extended hours available to help fit your schedule.
Location: Austin Cary Forest, 10625 NE Waldo Rd, Gainesville, FL 32609. Shuttle service that picks up and drops off at Westside Park available for a small fee.
Cost: $275/Session. If you sign up for two sessions, we offer a 10% discount. We also have partial scholarships available, please contact Molly Disabb for more information.
For more information visit: www.campkidsinthewoods.org and to register visit: http://reg.conferences.dce.ufl.edu/Basic/1400075863To contact the Camp Director Molly Disabb, email kidsinthewoods@ifas.ufl.edu or call 352-378-2451.

PRESCRIBED BURN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FROM ATTACK-ONE FIRE MANAGEMENT SERVICES, TALL TIMBERS RESEARCH STATION, AND ALACHUA CONSERVATION TRUST

These organizations are available to meet onsite with landowners to discuss their goals and assist with prescribed burn prescription and implementation.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

ONGOING INITIATIVES / SERVICES / OPPORTUNTIES

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD CALENDAR OF EVENTS

http://floridalandsteward.org/calendar.html

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

Use this web tool to identify resources and assistance at a local watershed scale. The map is at this link: http://viewer.apps.pflcc.databasin.org/v1/index.html.

More about this effort and how to use the tool here.

REPORT BOBWHITE QUAIL AND OTHER WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

The FWC also seeks reports of these species:

Report chipmunk sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/chipmunk/getlatlong.aspx
Report panther sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/PantherSightings/getlatlong.aspx
Report mink sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/mink/getlatlong.aspx
Report black bear sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/blackbear/getlatlong.aspx
Report southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES? - CHECK OUT THE FOREST AND TREE HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS FORUM

Visit the new Forest Health Diagnostic forum on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/

FOREST STEWARDSHIP VIDEOS - VIEW AND SHARE!

All the videos are on the Florida Forest Stewardship Program home page:

http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forest_stewardship

GOT AN INVASIVE SPECIES PROBLEM?

Go to floridainvasives.org for information, assistance and partnership opportunities.

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON A PARTICULAR TOPIC?

Check the vast array of extension publications available through UF/IFAS on the EDIS publication site: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ Wow, there’s a publication about that?

UF/IFAS SCHOOL OF FOREST RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION EXTENSION PROGRAMS

See http://sfrc.ufl.edu/extension

FORESTRY AND NATURAL RESOURCES WEBINARS

For a calendar of upcoming webinars in a variety of land management topics see:

http://www.forestrywebinars.net/webinar-calendar/month#.T-zLkBhgZys.blogger

SOUTHERN REGION EXTENSION FORESTRY

See http://sref.info/ for the latest news, tools and offerings.

NEED A LOAN TO FUND CONSERVATION PROJECTS? CHECK OUT THE USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S GUARANTEED CONSERVATION LOAN PROGRAM

The FSA provides several types of farm loans. For more information on these opportunities, see the Florida FSA Website or contact your local FSA office to speak with a local representative.

Staying Connected: Honey Bees at Mike and Carole Adams' Saturiwa Conservation Area

noreply@blogger.com (Florida Land Steward) — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 17:01:00 +0000

Land Stewardship continues! In an effort to maintain connections with and between landowners during this time of social distancing and remote learning, this series will feature a brief highlight of activities happening on private lands. This week's feature is a new honey bee operation at Mike and Carole Adams' Saturiwa Conservation Area.

Since 1989, Mike and Carole Adams have owned and resided on a 94-acre forestry/longleaf pine restoration/wildlife/education operation. They call it Saturiwa Conservation Area, named after a powerful local Timucuan Indian chief. The property was certified as a Stewardship Forest in 1995.

By Mike Adams

Carole has been interested in bee keeping for several years. This year she decided to start an experimental hive and hopefully honey production. After only two weeks, with a single hive and several thousand starter bees, they documented the workers returning to the hive with a pine forest and river swamp pollen payload. If everything goes right, they look forward to their first sweet honey harvest later this year.

Learn more about Saturiwa Conservation Area in Family Forests: Portraits of Private Lands Stewardship in Florida, available at http://ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/p-1433-family-forests.aspx

The UF/IFAS Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory’s (HBREL) “Two Bees in a Podcast” released their first episode in January 2020. In the podcast, the HBREL discuss research updates, beekeeping management practices, and advice about beekeeping from our resident experts, beekeepers, scientists, and other program guests. The podcast is available on many platforms, including: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Anchor, Podbean and others.

By Mike Adams

For this and more offerings of the HBREL see http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 4/10/20

noreply@blogger.com (Florida Land Steward) — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0000

STEWARDSHIP AND CONNECTION CONTINUE
As we continue our social distancing and remote work activities to the extent those are possible, our land stewardship and connection also carry on.

Helen Roth, 2015 Florida Land Steward of the Year, has posted some great photos of the beautiful and unique plants in bloom at her Spring Canyon property in the Apalachicola ravines region of Gadsden County. If you are on Facebook, see her posts on the progression of spring blooms at https://www.facebook.com/helen.roth.77/posts/2957631867649279. You'll learn some new plants too.

Keep getting out in woods and on the water and share those experiences with us. Land stewardship activities, news, information, and opportunities are being shared on our Florida Land Steward Facebook page.

Webinars are where it's at: See the Forestry and Natural Resources Webinar calendar!

Please stay safe and avoid large gatherings according to local, regional, and national guidance. For the latest on the situation follow recommendations from trusted sources for up-to-date information on how to keep your family, friends and yourself in good health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's web site has the latest information and tips for preventing spread and staying healthy: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html

The UF College of Medicine has put together page with helpful resources and services to help everyone stay healthy and appropriately distanced: Resources to Promote Well-Being during Covid-19 Outbreak

FOREST AND TREE HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS CONTINUE ONLINE

By Sarah Tobing, ProForest and UF/ IFAS School of Forest Resources and Conservation

Is something bugging your trees? The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension offices closed to the public on March 16, 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. But there is a place open 24 hours a day where you can ask tree and forest health questions - Southern Forest Tree Health Diagnostics is a group on Facebook. The group is open to anyone with a Facebook account. It is managed by professionals in forestry, extension, entomology and forest health in the southeastern U.S. Here is the full web address: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/.

How does it work? First, you encounter the unknown, it could be a new insect or an unexplainable ooze leaking from your tree. Then you snap a couple of photos of the unknown tree or forest health issue. Next, you join Southern Forest Tree Health Diagnostics on Facebook. Then you post your photos along with a detailed description of what’s happening, where, and questions. Within hours, a local expert or two will respond to your post with an answer and a recommendation for a solution.

Photo by Jiri Hulcr

Here’s an example. Question: What is this funky looking orange squiggly blob on this sand pine branch? Answer: That’s fusiform rust, a native fungus-caused disease. My management recommendation depends on where this tree is in the landscape, please follow-up with more photos.

Beyond being an online space to ask experts diagnostic questions, Southern Forest Tree Health Diagnostics is a place to virtually gather with other forest and land stewards. As of April 2020, the group has over 1,200 members. These members include foresters, consultants, state employees, educators, state agents, students, ranchers, and more.

If like me, you are shy on social media, that is not a problem. I am a self-admitted “lurker”, someone who hangs out in the group’s page but does not post questions or answers. I still find a lot of value in being a part of the group because I have learned about tree diseases and insects by looking at photos and questions that other group members post.

In Florida, spring is a great time to be outside. If you notice something weird or unexplained on your tree or forest, snap a photo, hop online and post it on the Southern Forest Tree Health Diagnostics Facebook page. During this time of social isolation, we still have options to reach out and interact with experts in tree and forest health.

Sarah Tobing is the program coordinator for ProForest, a multi-institutional collaborative that working to get ahead of threats to forest health and resilience through research, extension and education. Find out more here http://proforesthealth.org/.

TRANSITION SARASOTA CONNECTING LOCAL AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS WITH CONSUMERSTransition Sarasota and UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County are teaming up to celebrate local producers by helping them get the word out about available products and services as we navigate to keep everyone safe with COVID-19. Check out their efforts at http://www.transitionsrq.org/.

TAX TIPS FOR FOREST LANDOWNERS FOR THE 2019 TAX YEAR
As of the latest news, we will have an additional three months to file taxes amid the coronavirus pandemic. The US treasury secretary said today that the tax filing deadline is July 15 . The Federal income tax laws contain forestry-specific provisions that are important for those managing and conserving timber. This publication provides forest owners, foresters, loggers, and timber businesses a guide to the applicable Federal income tax laws, including the latest tax law changes, for filing 2019 tax returns. The information is not intended to render legal or accounting advice and is current as of September 30, 2019. Access the 2019 timber tax tips and more related information at https://www.timbertax.org/

Contact Crenel Francis at 352-338-9508 for questions and submissions.

HURRICANE RECOVERY: EMERGENCY FOREST RESTORATION PROGRAM DEADLINE EXTENDED TO APRIL 30
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Florida Farm Service Agency State Committee authorized an extension to the USDA Farm Service Agency’s Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) late filing period. This will allow timber producers impacted by Hurricane Michael to apply for assistance under EFRP if the application is received by the new deadline of April 30, 2020. Find your USDA Service Center here.

2020 FLORIDA LAND STEWARD WALL CALENDARS
Just a few left.... The annual Florida Land Steward calendar features beautiful photography, habitat management tips, landowner and management highlights, resource contacts and more. These make a great gift and have become a regular part of homes and offices across Florida. First come, first serve to Florida Forest Stewards, Tree Farmers, and other interested landowners. Request your calendar by sending an email to cdemers@ufl.edu with your mailing address.

YOU CAN HELP us to report impacts and continue this wall calendar project. If you have received and used the calendar in recent years, we would like to know how it has been helpful. This will also help us to justify this project in coming years. Please help us by filling out this quick 2-minute questionnaire: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6HKR82F

$380 MILLION IN BLOCK GRANTS FOR TIMBER RECOVERY APPROVED

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has allocated $380.7 million in federal block grant funding for Florida farmers devastated by Hurricane Michael, including direct relief for timber producers. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will administer the USDA block grants alongside the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

The funds will compensate timber producers for lost value of their crops damaged by Hurricane Michael, helping them clear downed trees and replant. About $10 million of the funding will also help agricultural producers repair and replace irrigation infrastructure damage from Hurricane Michael. The application process for timber producers to receive the grant funding is being hammered out now. We will share the latest in Florida Land Steward updates. More on this from FDACS

PRESCRIBED BURN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FROM ATTACK-ONE FIRE MANAGEMENT SERVICES, TALL TIMBERS RESEARCH STATION, AND ALACHUA CONSERVATION TRUST

These organizations are available to meet onsite with landowners to discuss their goals and assist with prescribed burn prescription and implementation.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

ONGOING INITIATIVES / SERVICES / OPPORTUNTIES

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD CALENDAR OF EVENTS

http://floridalandsteward.org/calendar.html

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

Use this web tool to identify resources and assistance at a local watershed scale. The map is at this link: http://viewer.apps.pflcc.databasin.org/v1/index.html.

More about this effort and how to use the tool here.

REPORT BOBWHITE QUAIL AND OTHER WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

The FWC also seeks reports of these species:

Report chipmunk sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/chipmunk/getlatlong.aspx
Report panther sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/PantherSightings/getlatlong.aspx
Report mink sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/mink/getlatlong.aspx
Report black bear sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/blackbear/getlatlong.aspx
Report southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES? - CHECK OUT THE FOREST AND TREE HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS FORUM

Visit the new Forest Health Diagnostic forum on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/

FOREST STEWARDSHIP VIDEOS - VIEW AND SHARE!

All the videos are on the Florida Forest Stewardship Program home page:

http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forest_stewardship

GOT AN INVASIVE SPECIES PROBLEM?

Go to floridainvasives.org for information, assistance and partnership opportunities.

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON A PARTICULAR TOPIC?

Check the vast array of extension publications available through UF/IFAS on the EDIS publication site: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ Wow, there’s a publication about that?

UF/IFAS SCHOOL OF FOREST RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION EXTENSION PROGRAMS

See http://sfrc.ufl.edu/extension

FORESTRY AND NATURAL RESOURCES WEBINARS

For a calendar of upcoming webinars in a variety of land management topics see:

http://www.forestrywebinars.net/webinar-calendar/month#.T-zLkBhgZys.blogger

SOUTHERN REGION EXTENSION FORESTRY

See http://sref.info/ for the latest news, tools and offerings.

NEED A LOAN TO FUND CONSERVATION PROJECTS? CHECK OUT THE USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S GUARANTEED CONSERVATION LOAN PROGRAM

The FSA provides several types of farm loans. For more information on these opportunities, see the Florida FSA Website or contact your local FSA office to speak with a local representative.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 4/3/20

noreply@blogger.com (Florida Land Steward) — Fri, 03 Apr 2020 20:02:00 +0000

SLOWING DOWN
These times are certainly challenging as many of our activities and routines have been suspended. If there is any silver lining to all this it's perhaps some time and renewed appreciation for what we have, especially our outstanding natural resources. I'm seeing a lot of social media posts of friends and family enjoying the outdoors. Keep getting out in the woods and on the water and share those experiences safely.

News, information, and opportunities are being shared on our Florida Land Steward Facebook page.

Most events scheduled in April 2020 have been cancelled or rescheduled. Current University of Florida policy states that No in-person gatherings of individuals in the name of UF/IFAS Florida Agriculture, Natural Resources and Sea Grant Extension will take place through April 30, 2020. This extends to all volunteer meetings, workshops, demos, camps, conferences, retreats, etc. We will closely monitor the situation and make decisions about meetings scheduled after that time according to current policy. See the Webinar calendar!

Please stay safe and avoid all large gatherings according to local, regional, and national guidance. For the latest on the situation follow recommendations from trusted sources for up-to-date information on how to keep your family, friends and yourself in good health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's web site has the latest information and tips for preventing spread and staying healthy: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html

TAX TIPS FOR FOREST LANDOWNERS FOR THE 2019 TAX YEAR
As of the latest news, we will have an additional three months to file taxes amid the coronavirus pandemic. The US treasury secretary said today that the tax filing deadline is July 15 . The Federal income tax laws contain forestry-specific provisions that are important for those managing and conserving timber. This publication provides forest owners, foresters, loggers, and timber businesses a guide to the applicable Federal income tax laws, including the latest tax law changes, for filing 2019 tax returns. The information is not intended to render legal or accounting advice and is current as of September 30, 2019. Access the 2019 timber tax tips and more related information at https://www.timbertax.org/

Contact Crenel Francis at 352-338-9508 for questions and submissions.

HURRICANE RECOVERY: EMERGENCY FOREST RESTORATION PROGRAM DEADLINE EXTENDED TO APRIL 30
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Florida Farm Service Agency State Committee authorized an extension to the USDA Farm Service Agency’s Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) late filing period. This will allow timber producers impacted by Hurricane Michael to apply for assistance under EFRP if the application is received by the new deadline of April 30, 2020. Find your USDA Service Center here.

2020 FLORIDA LAND STEWARD WALL CALENDARSGet your 2020 Florida Land Steward calendar while supplies last. The annual Florida Land Steward calendar features beautiful photography, habitat management tips, landowner and management highlights, resource contacts and more. These make a great gift and have become a regular part of homes and offices across Florida. First come, first serve to Florida Forest Stewards, Tree Farmers, and other interested landowners. Request your calendar by sending an email to cdemers@ufl.edu with your mailing address.

$380 MILLION IN BLOCK GRANTS FOR TIMBER RECOVERY APPROVED

PRESCRIBED BURN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FROM ATTACK-ONE FIRE MANAGEMENT SERVICES, TALL TIMBERS RESEARCH STATION, AND ALACHUA CONSERVATION TRUST

These organizations are available to meet onsite with landowners to discuss their goals and assist with prescribed burn prescription and implementation.

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

ONGOING INITIATIVES / SERVICES / OPPORTUNTIES

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD CALENDAR OF EVENTS

http://floridalandsteward.org/calendar.html

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS WEB MAP TOOL

Use this web tool to identify resources and assistance at a local watershed scale. The map is at this link: http://viewer.apps.pflcc.databasin.org/v1/index.html.

More about this effort and how to use the tool here.

REPORT BOBWHITE QUAIL AND OTHER WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

The FWC also seeks reports of these species:

Report chipmunk sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/chipmunk/getlatlong.aspx
Report panther sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/PantherSightings/getlatlong.aspx
Report mink sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/hsc/mink/getlatlong.aspx
Report black bear sightings here: https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/blackbear/getlatlong.aspx
Report southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES? - CHECK OUT THE NEW DIAGNOSTICS FORUM

Visit the new Forest Health Diagnostic forum on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics/

FOREST STEWARDSHIP VIDEOS - VIEW AND SHARE!

All the latest videos are on the Florida Forest Stewardship Program home page:

http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forest_stewardship

GOT AN INVASIVE SPECIES PROBLEM?

Go to floridainvasives.org for information, assistance and partnership opportunities.

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON A PARTICULAR TOPIC?

Check the vast array of extension publications available through UF/IFAS on the EDIS publication site: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ Wow, there’s a publication about that?

UF/IFAS SCHOOL OF FOREST RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION EXTENSION PROGRAMS

See http://sfrc.ufl.edu/extension

FORESTRY AND NATURAL RESOURCES WEBINARS

For a calendar of upcoming webinars in a variety of land management topics see:

http://www.forestrywebinars.net/webinar-calendar/month#.T-zLkBhgZys.blogger

SOUTHERN REGION EXTENSION FORESTRY

See http://sref.info/ for the latest news, tools and offerings.

NEED A LOAN TO FUND CONSERVATION PROJECTS? CHECK OUT THE USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S GUARANTEED CONSERVATION LOAN PROGRAM

The FSA provides several types of farm loans. For more information on these opportunities, see the Florida FSA Website or contact your local FSA office to speak with a local representative.