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Are freezing winters or hot summers enough to wipe out bugs? Join us on From the Woods Today as entomologist Dr. Jonathan Larson digs into this popular myth and shares what really happens to insects when temps soar or plunge! Also on tap... You’ve probably seen its early spring blooms lining roadsides, neighborhoods, and fields—but those pretty white flowers hide a much bigger story. Join Dr. Ellen Crocker, Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, as she gives us another edition of Pesky Plants. If you’ve seen these trees or are trying to deal with them on your own property — Ellen’s guidance provides the tools you need to take action with this invasive tree.
This week on From the Woods Today, we’re welcoming Alexandra Blevins, Forest Health Specialist with the Kentucky Division of Forestry. Alexandra will kick things off by explaining what invasive species are and why they are such a threat to Kentucky’s forests. Also on tap...Alexandra will walk us through some of the most common invasive pests, diseases, and plants affecting our woodlands—and what you can do to help slow their spread. Whether you’re a landowner, nature-lover, or just curious about forest health, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Kentucky’s forests are full of incredible wildlife—but some of the most fascinating birds are the ones hiding right on the trunks of trees! This week on From the Woods Today, Dr. D.J. McNeil, UK Forestry and Natural Resources, highlights the fascinating world of bark‑clinging birds, including our energetic nuthatches and hardworking woodpeckers. These species are vital to forest health, helping control insects, create habitat, and play a key role in maintaining healthy forest ecosystems. Also on tap...Beyond their beauty, many of our native wildflowers have traditional meanings rooted in folklore, culture, and generations of connections to the land. Want to learn about what these blooms have symbolized throughout history? Don’t miss this segment with Anna Wiker from the Kentucky Master Naturalist Program, who will explore this fascinating subject and share the traditional meanings and symbolic roles that flowers have held over time.
Exploding trees???? Dr. Jacob Muller, UK FNR - Extension, will have our first episode of Tree Tales: Rooting out the Myths. Will extreme temperatures make a tree explode? Is this real or AI? Also on tap... Dr. Ellen Crocker, UK FNR - Extension, will have another segment of Pesky Plants as she talks about lesser celandine. This invasive buttercup forms dense matts, especially in streamsides and wet areas, crowding out other plants and you don't want to see it in your forests.
Maple syrup has a rich history in Kentucky. Many people associate this sweet treat with New England. However, Kentucky has its own unique relationship with maple syrup. John Duvall, KY Maple Syrup Association, talks about the basics of maple syrup and some Maple Days that will be celebrated in February at producers across the state. Also on tap…Join us as Dr. Ellen Crocker, UK Forestry & Natural Resources - Extension, gives an overview of common maple diseases, what to watch for, and simple steps to keep your trees healthy.
Did you know late winter is one of the best times to prune your trees? With leaves gone, it’s easier to see the tree’s structure and make clean cuts that can promote healthy growth in spring. Proper maintenance means stronger, healthier trees later. Chris Wiedamann, Urban and Community Forestry Program Coordinator with the Kentucky Division of Forestry offers us expert tips on pruning techniques and tree care essentials. Also on tap...What's good about dead trees in our forests? Trees are an essential part of Kentucky's forests throughout their whole life. How do dead and dying trees benefit the forest? Join Frannie Preston, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, to learn about the ecosystem benefits that trees provide at the end of their life cycle.
Forests are home to countless species, and the way we manage them matters. Proper forestry practices can help ensure wildlife thrives. Join Dr. Matt Springer from UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension as he shares practical ways you can support birds, mammals, and pollinators through responsible forest management. Also on tap...Wintercreeper may look like a beautiful groundcover, but it’s an invasive species threatening Kentucky’s forests and native plants. It forms dense mats that choke out wildflowers and prevent new trees and shrubs from growing. Join Dr. Ellen Crocker, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, as she explains why this plant is harmful and what you can do to stop its spread.
Kentucky is home to numerous native conifers. Join us to learn about these native cone-bearing trees as Laurie Thomas, UK Forestry and Natural Resources-Extension, discusses conifer identification. Also on tap...It’s not too late to decorate! Join Kentucky Master Naturalist Outreach Coordinator Anna Wiker to learn how you can get out in the woods and get material and inspiration for a sustainable and easy-to-make holiday wreath.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we’re joined by Dr. Jonathan Larson from UK Entomology to explore the bugs that often hitch a ride into your home during the holiday season. Also on tap...Dr. Ellen Crocker, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension will share insights on Pesky Plants, focusing on the invasive round-leafed bittersweet.
Dr. Jonathan Larson, Assistant Professor, Extension Entomology, is joining From the Woods Today to discuss the important question: “Do mosquitoes, ants, and chiggers do anything good?” While they might seem like just pests, Dr. Larson will explain the surprising roles they play in different ecosystems and the many other ways they benefit not only us, but also other things as well. Also on tap...Blake Newtown, Extension Entomology, will discuss the different types of ticks, how to protect yourself from them, and Alpha-gal syndrome.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, Dr. Lance Vickers explains how our mixedwood forests are often overlooked and an important part of Kentucky’s landscape—blending hardwoods and conifers to support wildlife, timber production, and ecosystem resilience. Yet, their value remains underappreciated. It’s time to recognize and manage these forests for a more sustainable future!
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn that winter is one of the best times of year to get familiar with your local owls! Learn owling tips and tricks, including common species identification, learning what to look and listen for, and best practices while out looking for owls.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore how wildfires in Eastern KY can threaten homes and why being Firewise is crucial for protecting properties and conserving firefighting resources. Plus, we celebrate World Wetlands Day with a special segment.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we dive into the rich history of maple syrup production in Kentucky. We explore how the first Kentucky Maple Day in 2020 helped introduce locals to the state's growing maple syrup industry and how it has become an annual tradition.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we kick off the new year by exploring the latest technological innovations in forestry. Topics include advanced logging equipment, drones, renewable wood products, and cutting-edge manufacturing technologies. We also dive into invasive plant management and discuss the various uses of firewood.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore the environmental impact of your Christmas tree choice, offering tips on how to make your holidays more sustainable. Plus, we share last-minute gift ideas for the forest enthusiasts in your life.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we talk about two pests that might try to catch a ride with viewers during their holiday visits with family and how to avoid them. Plus, we explore the holiday tradition of mistletoe and offer tips on what to do with your Christmas tree after the holidays.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore the final chapter of our Value of Woodlands series where we uncover the hidden value wildlife and timber.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we discuss the many different ways that plants have evolved traits or processes to withstand freezing conditions and freeze/thaw cycles. We also have a segment about the invasive pest, the spotted lanternfly.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, viewers will learn how to recognize a few basic tree characteristics to make identifying trees in winter less tricky. We also discuss some bird feeding basics.
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explain how insects avoid cold temperatures and return the next year to start their life cycles over again. Dr. Matt Springer also joins us to discuss wildlife and their adaptations and other neat tricks that allow them to survive the winter.