Monday, December 16, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 12/16/13

SEASON'S GREETINGS!

WILDLIFE BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES UPDATE
The Best Management Practices Technical Advisory Committee (BMP TAC) of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services agreed last week to move ahead with the formal rule-making process for a new set of wildlife BMPs for forestry. This process could include a public hearing, if requested by an interested party.

The sole purpose of the wildlife BMPs will be to serve as an alternative to the need to obtain an incidental take permit for a specified set of state imperiled species. These BMPs will only be used as voluntary measures at a landowner’s discretion. They are practical and easily understood and applied.

The wildlife BMPs will exist as a completely separate document from the current silviculture BMP manual for maintaining water quality. Upon adoption, any future revisions to these new wildlife BMPs for forestry will be developed through the Forestry BMP TAC . A sub-group of the TAC met twice during the summer and fall of this year to develop the draft set of BMPs that were approved by the TAC this week. We will keep you posted as the BMPs progress through the state rule making/adoption process.

APPLICATIONS FOR USDA NRCS CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM DUE JANUARY 17
The USDA Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is opening the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) for new enrollments for federal fiscal year 2014.  Starting today through January 17, 2014, producers interested in participating in the program can submit applications to NRCS.

“Through the Conservation Stewardship Program, farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners are going the extra mile to conserve our nation’s resources,” NRCS Chief Jason Weller said. “Through their conservation actions, they are ensuring that their operations are more productive and sustainable over the long run.”

The CSP is an important Farm Bill conservation program that helps established conservation stewards with taking their level of natural resource management to the next level to improve both their agricultural production and provide valuable conservation benefits such as cleaner and more abundant water, as well as healthier soils and better wildlife habitat.

Weller said today's announcement is another example of USDA's comprehensive focus on promoting environmental conservation and strengthening the rural economy, and it is a reminder that a new Food, Farm and Jobs Bill is pivotal to continue these efforts. CSP is now in its fifth year and so far, NRCS has partnered with producers to enroll more than 59 million acres across the nation.

The program emphasizes conservation performance — producers earn higher payments for higher performance. In CSP, producers install conservation enhancements to make positive changes in soil quality, soil erosion, water quality, water quantity, air quality, plant resources, animal resources and energy.

Some popular enhancements used by farmers and ranchers include:
·         Using new nozzles that reduce the drift of pesticides, lowering input costs and making sure pesticides are used where they are most needed;
·         Modifying water facilities to prevent bats and bird species from being trapped;
·         Burning patches of land, mimicking prairie fires to enhance wildlife habitat; and
·         Rotating feeding areas and monitoring key grazing areas to improve grazing management.

Eligible landowners and operators in all states and territories can enroll in CSP through January 17th to be eligible during the 2014 federal fiscal year. While local NRCS offices accept CSP applications year round, NRCS evaluates applications during announced ranking periods.

To be eligible for this year’s enrollment, producers must have their applications submitted to NRCS by the closing date.  A CSP self-screening checklist is available to help producers determine if the program is suitable for their operation. The checklist highlights basic information about CSP eligibility requirements, stewardship threshold requirements and payment types.
Learn more about CSP by visiting the NRCS website: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/site/national/home/
or a local NRCS field office: http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app?agency=nrcs

2013 TIMBER TAX TIPS AVAILABLE
Tax Tips for Forest Landowners for the 2013 Tax Year is now available. This annual bulletin provides federal income tax reporting tips to assist forest landowners and their advisors in filing their 2013 income tax returns. The information presented is current as of Sept. 15, 2013: http://www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/loa/tax.shtml

FORESTRY TAXATION VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE
The Forest Landowners Tax Council (The FLTC) has produced a couple educational programs about forestry related taxation. The latest is entitled “Taxation of Forestry Income.” These videos can be found at TheFLTC YouTube Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheFLTC

"TIME TO THIN" VIDEO ON YOUTUBE
Not your usual instructional video - check it out! In just a little over two minutes, explains why thinning is important and how to get started, with a live link to more information. Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBxGxeAagtE

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES?
Do you have pests or a disease in your trees? Leaves or needles wilting, and you don’t know why? Sawdust falling out of your trees, and you don’t know how to save them? There is help: ask your question at the new Forest Health Diagnostic Forum: http://sfrc.ufl.edu/treehealth/forum/.
Run by forest health specialists at the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, Department of Entomology and the Florida Forest Service, this is the fastest and the most accurate forest pest and disease diagnostics available in the State of Florida. It’s free, logging in is easy, and replies are prompt. We are also happy to examine your samples, or visit your site for a minimal fee. We are here to help you protect your trees!

PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled  to learn more and participate.

HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote dietary habits in Florida and needs YOU to donate your catch! We are especially interested in how coyotes are affecting white-tailed deer, turkeys, bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets! YOUR help is needed to obtain legally acquired coyote carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal weight/sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. Arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!

Lauren N. Watine & Bill Giuliano
E-mail: LNWATINE@UFL.EDU
Office: 352-846-0575

FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS:
EASTERN DIAMONDBACK RATTLESNAKES
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service was recently petitioned to list the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, historically found in the lower Coastal Plain from North Carolina to Louisiana, as a threatened or endangered species.  As the Service reviews the status of the eastern diamondback, the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) is soliciting information about observations of the snake to improve understanding of its distribution and habitat associations.  If you encounter an eastern diamondback rattlesnake, we would greatly appreciate your completing a short online survey here: http://www.ncasi.org/snakesurvey.aspx For more information, please contact Dr. Ben Wigley at 864-656-0840 or  bwigley@ncasi.org

FWC WILDLIFE LEGACY INITIATIVE NEWSLETTER
See the latest news at: http://myfwc.com/conservation/special-initiatives/fwli/news/fall-2013/

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

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA CONTINUING FORESTRY EDUCATION CLASSES
See http://conted.warnell.uga.edu/ for the latest offerings.

ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION FORESTRY WEBINARS
See http://www.aces.edu/natural-resources/forestry/
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Thursday, December 5, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 12/6/13

SEASON'S GREETINGS FROM FLORIDA LAND STEWARD PARTNERS!
APPLICATIONS FOR USDA NRCS CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM DUE JANUARY 17
The USDA Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is opening the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) for new enrollments for federal fiscal year 2014.  Starting today through January 17, 2014, producers interested in participating in the program can submit applications to NRCS.

“Through the Conservation Stewardship Program, farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners are going the extra mile to conserve our nation’s resources,” NRCS Chief Jason Weller said. “Through their conservation actions, they are ensuring that their operations are more productive and sustainable over the long run.”

The CSP is an important Farm Bill conservation program that helps established conservation stewards with taking their level of natural resource management to the next level to improve both their agricultural production and provide valuable conservation benefits such as cleaner and more abundant water, as well as healthier soils and better wildlife habitat.

Weller said today's announcement is another example of USDA's comprehensive focus on promoting environmental conservation and strengthening the rural economy, and it is a reminder that a new Food, Farm and Jobs Bill is pivotal to continue these efforts. CSP is now in its fifth year and so far, NRCS has partnered with producers to enroll more than 59 million acres across the nation.
The program emphasizes conservation performance — producers earn higher payments for higher performance. In CSP, producers install conservation enhancements to make positive changes in soil quality, soil erosion, water quality, water quantity, air quality, plant resources, animal resources and energy.

Some popular enhancements used by farmers and ranchers include:
·Using new nozzles that reduce the drift of pesticides, lowering input costs and making sure pesticides are used where they are most needed;
·Modifying water facilities to prevent bats and bird species from being trapped;
·Burning patches of land, mimicking prairie fires to enhance wildlife habitat; and
·Rotating feeding areas and monitoring key grazing areas to improve grazing management.

Eligible landowners and operators in all states and territories can enroll in CSP through January 17th to be eligible during the 2014 federal fiscal year. While local NRCS offices accept CSP applications year round, NRCS evaluates applications during announced ranking periods.   To be eligible for this year’s enrollment, producers must have their applications submitted to NRCS by the closing date.

A CSP self-screening checklist is available to help producers determine if the program is suitable for their operation. The checklist highlights basic information about CSP eligibility requirements, stewardship threshold requirements and payment types.

Learn more about CSP by visiting the NRCS website: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/site/national/home/
or a local NRCS field office: http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app?agency=nrcs

NRCS CERTIFICATION EASES APPLYING FOR CONSERVATION EASEMENT PROGRAM
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service's Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program (FRPP) is making it easier for state, tribal, local governments and non-governmental organizations to enroll land in conservation easements through advanced certification. FRPP provides matching funds to purchase easements on private working lands to ensure productive farms and ranches will be kept in agricultural uses forever. The progam has protected more than 2 million acres for the production of food, feed and fiber since 1996.

Entities may apply for certification by submitting a letter of request and application materials to the Florida NRCS State Conservationist by Jan. 3 to be considered for the first round of requests. “Certification streamlines the process and gets more conservation on the ground faster,” said Florida State Conservationist Russell Morgan.

When organizations are certified, they may enter into longer term cooperative agreements and conduct the property closings without prior submission of individual appraisals, deeds or title documents for NRCS review. Organizations must hold, manage and monitor a minimum of five of the program’s conservation easements to qualify for certification. For a full list of the certification criteria, see the program’s web page at: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/easements/farmranch/

Submit letters for certification to the Florida State Conservationist, NRCS State Office, 2614 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32606. For more information on the application materials required for certification, visit the NRCS website at http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/site/national/home/
or contact Nina Bhattacharyya, 352-338-9554.

FLORIDA FOREST SERVICE SILVICULTURE BMP SURVEY
Protection of water quality and quantity during forestry operations is a very important aspect of natural resource management in Florida. The Florida Forest Service (FFS) has demonstrated that when silviculture Best Management Practices (BMPs) are implemented, the state's water resources are well protected. In addition, protecting water resources remains a high priority for loggers, foresters, land managers, and silviculture contractors.

To date, the FFS has conducted 15 surveys with a state-wide average of 94% compliance. In other words, the BMPs designated to protect Florida's water resources have been applied to more than 9 out of every 10 sites where forestry practices, such as harvesting and planting, have been conducted for the past 31 years. The survey relies heavily on voluntary private land owner participation that benefits all Floridians by providing a continued commitment to natural resource stewardship.

The 16th survey is now underway and will conclude in December 2013. Survey sites are randomly selected from aerial observations. Once site candidates are located and property owners determined, the BMP forester for the area will contact the landowner to solicit his or her voluntary participation. The survey provides a great opportunity for many landowners to assist and show their dedication to the protection of water quality during forestry activities near streams, lakes, and rivers. Today, we all make a difference in tomorrow's environment.

For more information contact the BMP forester nearest you:
Roy Lima at (850) 681-5942 or Robin Holland at (352) 732-1273

RED HILLS' ECONOMIC IMPACT AND ECOSYSTEM VALUES
Tall Timbers Research and Land Conservancy recently released the results of its yearlong economic impact analysis of working rural lands in the Red Hills Region, a six-county area in south Georgia and north Florida.

The study, a joint effort between Tall Timbers and Florida State University's Center for Economic Forecasting and Analysis, found that in 2012 the overall regional economic impact of Red Hills' hunting properties was more than $147 million. Also, more than 1,400 jobs are directly or indirectly related to Red Hills' hunting properties; these jobs generate more than $51 million in employment income, which equates to an annual average wage that exceeds the average wage in all Red Hills' counties except one. Read the economic impact study:
http://floridaforest.org/wp-content/uploads/RH_Ecosystem-Services.pdf

2013 TIMBER TAX TIPS AVAILABLE
Tax Tips for Forest Landowners for the 2013 Tax Year is now available. This annual bulletin provides federal income tax reporting tips to assist forest landowners and their advisors in filing their 2013 income tax returns. The information presented is current as of Sept. 15, 2013: http://www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/loa/tax.shtml

FORESTRY TAXATION VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE
The Forest Landowners Tax Council (The FLTC) has produced a couple educational programs about forestry related taxation. The latest is entitled “Taxation of Forestry Income.” These videos can be found at TheFLTC YouTube Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheFLTC

"TIME TO THIN" VIDEO ON YOUTUBE
Not your usual instructional video - check it out! In just a little over two minutes, explains why thinning is important and how to get started, with a live link to more information. Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBxGxeAagtE

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES?
Do you have pests or a disease in your trees? Leaves or needles wilting, and you don’t know why? Sawdust falling out of your trees, and you don’t know how to save them? There is help: ask your question at the new Forest Health Diagnostic Forum: http://sfrc.ufl.edu/treehealth/forum/.
Run by forest health specialists at the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, Department of Entomology and the Florida Forest Service, this is the fastest and the most accurate forest pest and disease diagnostics available in the State of Florida. It’s free, logging in is easy, and replies are prompt. We are also happy to examine your samples, or visit your site for a minimal fee. We are here to help you protect your trees!

PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled to learn more and participate.

HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote dietary habits in Florida and needs YOU to donate your catch! We are especially interested in how coyotes are affecting white-tailed deer, turkeys, bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets! YOUR help is needed to obtain legally acquired coyote carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal weight/sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. Arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!
Lauren N. Watine & Bill Giuliano
E-mail: LNWATINE@UFL.EDU
Office: 352-846-0575

FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS:
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.as

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=

EASTERN DIAMONDBACK RATTLESNAKES
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service was recently petitioned to list the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, historically found in the lower Coastal Plain from North Carolina to Louisiana, as a threatened or endangered species. As the Service reviews the status of the eastern diamondback, the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) is soliciting information about observations of the snake to improve understanding of its distribution and habitat associations. If you encounter an eastern diamondback rattlesnake, we would greatly appreciate your completing a short online survey here: http://www.ncasi.org/snakesurvey.aspx
For more information, please contact Dr. Ben Wigley at 864-656-0840 or bwigley@ncasi.org

FWC WILDLIFE LEGACY INITIATIVE NEWSLETTER
See the latest news at: http://myfwc.com/conservation/special-initiatives/fwli/news/fall-2013/

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

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA CONTINUING FORESTRY EDUCATION CLASSES
See http://conted.warnell.uga.edu/ for the latest offerings.

ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION FORESTRY WEBINARS
See http://www.aces.edu/natural-resources/forestry/
Posted by at No comments:

Friday, November 15, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 11/15/13

2013 TIMBER TAX TIPS AVAILABLE
Tax Tips for Forest Landowners for the 2013 Tax Year is now available. This annual bulletin provides federal income tax reporting tips to assist forest landowners and their advisors in filing their 2013 income tax returns. The information presented is current as of Sept. 15, 2013: http://www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/loa/tax.shtml

FORESTRY TAXATION VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE
The Forest Landowners Tax Council (The FLTC) has produced a couple educational programs about forestry related taxation. The latest is entitled “Taxation of Forestry Income.” These videos can be found at TheFLTC YouTube Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheFLTC

"TIME TO THIN" VIDEO ON YOUTUBE
Not your usual instructional video - check it out! In just a little over two minutes, explains why thinning is important and how to get started, with a live link to more information. Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBxGxeAagtE

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES?
Do you have pests or a disease in your trees? Leaves or needles wilting, and you don’t know why? Sawdust falling out of your trees, and you don’t know how to save them? There is help: ask your question at the new Forest Health Diagnostic Forum: http://sfrc.ufl.edu/treehealth/forum/.
Run by forest health specialists at the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, Department of Entomology and the Florida Forest Service, this is the fastest and the most accurate forest pest and disease diagnostics available in the State of Florida. It’s free, logging in is easy, and replies are prompt. We are also happy to examine your samples, or visit your site for a minimal fee. We are here to help you protect your trees!

PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled  to learn more and participate.

HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote dietary habits in Florida and needs YOU to donate your catch! We are especially interested in how coyotes are affecting white-tailed deer, turkeys, bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets! YOUR help is needed to obtain legally acquired coyote carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal weight/sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. Arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!
Lauren N. Watine & Bill Giuliano
E-mail: LNWATINE@UFL.EDU
Office: 352-846-0575

FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS:

EASTERN DIAMONDBACK RATTLESNAKES The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service was recently petitioned to list the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, historically found in the lower Coastal Plain from North Carolina to Louisiana, as a threatened or endangered species.  As the Service reviews the status of the eastern diamondback, the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) is soliciting information about observations of the snake to improve understanding of its distribution and habitat associations.  If you encounter an eastern diamondback rattlesnake, we would greatly appreciate your completing a short online survey here: http://www.ncasi.org/snakesurvey.aspx
For more information, please contact Dr. Ben Wigley at 864-656-0840 or  bwigley@ncasi.org

FWC WILDLIFE LEGACY INITIATIVE NEWSLETTERSee the latest news at: http://myfwc.com/conservation/special-initiatives/fwli/news/fall-2013/

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

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA CONTINUING FORESTRY EDUCATION CLASSES
See http://conted.warnell.uga.edu/ for the latest offerings.

ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION FORESTRY WEBINARSSee http://www.aces.edu/natural-resources/forestry/
Posted by at No comments:

Friday, November 1, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 11/1/13

NRCS CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE AND FUNDING APPLICATIONS BEING ACCEPTED BEFORE NOVEMBER 15, 2013
Now is the time for farmers, ranchers and other agricultural producers to visit their local USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) office to receive more information and apply for conservation technical assistance and possible funding opportunities. NRCS offices across the country, including those in Florida, are resuming work with farmers and ranchers to implement conservation activities. All offices are open and are working to address the backlog of requests expediently.
“If you are interested in conservation assistance you should visit with our staff as soon as possible,” said Assistant State Conservationist for Financial Programs, Jeffrey Woods. “Our agency is able to proceed with implementation of several conservation programs, including the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Conservation Stewardship Program.”
Florida NRCS has established November 15, 2013, as the application cutoff date for consideration for Federal Fiscal Year 2014 funds for these two programs.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is a conservation program that provides financial and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers who face threats to soil, water, air, and related natural resources on their land. Through EQIP, NRCS develops contracts with agricultural producers to voluntarily implement conservation practices. Persons engaged in livestock or agricultural production and owners of non-industrial private forestland are eligible for the program.
The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is available on Tribal and private agricultural lands and non-industrial private forest land.  CSP encourages producers to address resource concerns in a comprehensive manner by undertaking additional conservation activities; and improving, maintaining, and managing existing conservation activities. 

Applications received after November 15th will be considered for future funding periods.
Authority to enroll acres in several other programs, including the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP), expired on September 30, 2013, due to the expiration of the Farm Bill. Additional information on NRCS, conservation assistance, and programs is available on its website at www.fl.nrcs.usda.gov or at your local USDA - NRCS office. To find the nearest office go to your telephone directory under “U. S. Government, Department of Agriculture”, or http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app.

TIME TO THIN VIDEO ON YOUTUBE
Not your usual instructional video- check it out!  In a little over two minutes, explains why thinning is important and how to get started, with a live link to more information. Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBxGxeAagtE

2013 TIMBER TAX TIPS AVAILABLE
Tax Tips for Forest Landowners for the 2013 Tax Year is now available. This annual bulletin provides federal income tax reporting tips to assist forest landowners and their advisors in filing their 2013 income tax returns. The information presented is current as of Sept. 15, 2013: http://www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/loa/tax.shtml

FORESTRY TAXATION VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE
The Forest Landowners Tax Council (The FLTC) has produced a couple educational programs about forestry related taxation. The latest is entitled “Taxation of Forestry Income.” These videos can be found at TheFLTC YouTube Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheFLTC

EASTERN DIAMONDBACK RATTLESNAKES The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service was recently petitioned to list the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, historically found in the lower Coastal Plain from North Carolina to Louisiana, as a threatened or endangered species.  As the Service reviews the status of the eastern diamondback, the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) is soliciting information about observations of the snake to improve understanding of its distribution and habitat associations.  If you encounter an eastern diamondback rattlesnake, we would greatly appreciate your completing a short online survey here: http://www.ncasi.org/snakesurvey.aspx
This webpage also contains links to photos and other information that will help survey respondents distinguish eastern diamondbacks from the timber rattlesnake.  NCASI will remove any information that would identify individual respondents and/or landowners, as well as precise locations, before providing results to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.  For more information, please contact Dr. Ben Wigley at 864-656-0840 or  bwigley@ncasi.org
      
SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES?
Do you have pests or a disease in your trees? Leaves or needles wilting, and you don’t know why? Sawdust falling out of your trees, and you don’t know how to save them? There is help: ask your question at the new Forest Health Diagnostic Forum: http://sfrc.ufl.edu/treehealth/forum/.

Run by forest health specialists at the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, Department of Entomology and the Florida Forest Service, this is the fastest and the most accurate forest pest and disease diagnostics available in the State of Florida. It’s free, logging in is easy, and answers are almost instant. We are also happy to examine your samples, or visit your site for a minimal fee. We are here to protect your irreplaceable trees!

PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled  to learn more and participate.

HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote dietary habits in Florida and needs YOU to donate your catch! We are especially interested in how coyotes are affecting white-tailed deer, turkeys, bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets! YOUR help is needed to obtain legally acquired coyote carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal weight/sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. Arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!

Lauren N. Watine & Bill Giuliano
E-mail: LNWATINE@UFL.EDU
Office: 352-846-0575

FLORIDA RESIDENTS ASKED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OF RARE SNAKES
Information on current distribution and abundance of the southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) is needed, and your observations can help FWC biologists evaluate their status. These snakes spend much of their time underground in dry, upland habitats and are difficult to survey. Participate here: https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF PANTHER, CHIPMUNK, MINK AND BLACK BEAR SIGHTINGS

FWC WILDLIFE LEGACY INITIATIVE NEWSLETTER
See the latest news at: http://myfwc.com/conservation/special-initiatives/fwli/news/fall-2013/

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

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA CONTINUING FORESTRY EDUCATION CLASSES
See http://conted.warnell.uga.edu/ for the latest offerings.

ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION FORESTRY WEBINARS
See http://www.aces.edu/natural-resources/forestry/
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Friday, October 25, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 10/25/13

FLORIDA BLACK BEAR MANAGEMENT PLAN
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will hold public meetings in west Florida to discuss management of Florida black bears.  Under the FWC’s Florida Black Bear Management Plan, seven bear management units (BMUs) will be established throughout the state. The West Panhandle BMU, encompassing the counties of Escambia, Holmes, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton, will be the first to be created. The BMU approach will allow the FWC to manage bears based on the characteristics of bears, people and habitat in this part of Florida. Information about the Black Bear Management Plan is at:
http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/bear/bmu/

Public meetings offer the public a chance to provide input on local bear issues:
Oct. 29 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach.

NEW THINNING VIDEO ON YOUTUBE
Florida's Forest Stewardship Program is excited to announce a new instructional video on YouTube, "Time to Thin". In just a little over two minutes, explains why thinning is important and how to get started, with a live link to more information. Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBxGxeAagtE

2013 TIMBER TAX TIPS AVAILABLE
Tax Tips for Forest Landowners for the 2013 Tax Year is now available. This annual bulletin provides federal income tax reporting tips to assist forest landowners and their advisors in filing their 2013 income tax returns. The information presented is current as of Sept. 15, 2013: http://www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/loa/tax.shtml

FORESTRY TAXATION VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE
The Forest Landowners Tax Council (The FLTC) has produced a couple educational programs about forestry related taxation. The latest is entitled “Taxation of Forestry Income.” These videos can be found at TheFLTC YouTube Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheFLTC

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES?
Do you have pests or a disease in your trees? Leaves or needles wilting, and you don’t know why? Sawdust falling out of your trees, and you don’t know how to save them? There is help: contact the new Forest Health Diagnostics service at the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation: http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forestinsects/index.shtml. We are a group of forest health specialists at the University of Florida/IFAS. We guarantee fast and the most accurate forest pest and disease diagnostics available in the State of Florida. For a fee of $8, we can help you save your stand that’s worth thousands.

EASTERN DIAMONDBACK RATTLESNAKES
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service was recently petitioned to list the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, historically found in the lower Coastal Plain from North Carolina to Louisiana, as a threatened or endangered species.  As the Service reviews the status of the eastern diamondback, the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) is soliciting information about observations of the snake to improve understanding of its distribution and habitat associations.  If you encounter an eastern diamondback rattlesnake, we would greatly appreciate your completing a short online survey here:http://www.ncasi.org/snakesurvey.aspx
This webpage also contains links to photos and other information that will help survey respondents distinguish eastern diamondbacks from the timber rattlesnake.  NCASI will remove any information that would identify individual respondents and/or landowners, as well as precise locations, before providing results to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.  For more information, please contact Dr. Ben Wigley at (864) 656-0840 or  bwigley@ncasi.org 
      
PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled  to learn more and participate.

HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote dietary habits in Florida and needs YOU to donate your catch! We are especially interested in how coyotes are affecting white-tailed deer, turkeys, bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets! YOUR help is needed to obtain legally acquired coyote carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal weight/sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. Arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!

Lauren N. Watine & Bill Giuliano
E-mail: LNWATINE@UFL.EDU
Office: (352) 846-0575

FLORIDA RESIDENTS ASKED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OF RARE SNAKES
Information on current distribution and abundance of the southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) is needed, and your observations can help FWC biologists evaluate their status. These snakes spend much of their time underground in dry, upland habitats and are difficult to survey. Participate here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF PANTHER, CHIPMUNK, MINK AND BLACK BEAR SIGHTINGS

FWC WILDLIFE LEGACY INITIATIVE NEWSLETTER
See the latest news at: http://myfwc.com/conservation/special-initiatives/fwli/news/fall-2013/

UF/IFAS SCHOOL OF FOREST RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION EXTENSION PROGRAMS
See http://sfrc.ufl.edu/extension

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA CONTINUING FORESTRY EDUCATION CLASSES
See http://conted.warnell.uga.edu/ for the latest offerings.

ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION FORESTRY WEBINARS
See http://www.aces.edu/natural-resources/forestry/

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
Posted by at No comments:

Friday, October 4, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 10/4/13

NEW THINNING VIDEO ON YOUTUBE
Florida's Forest Stewardshp Program is excited to announce a new instructional video on YouTube, "Time to Thin". In just a little over two minutes, explains why thinning is important and how to get started, with a live link to more information. Check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBxGxeAagtE

2013 TIMBER TAX TIPS AVAILABLE
Tax Tips for Forest Landowners for the 2013 Tax Year is now available. This annual bulletin provides federal income tax reporting tips to assist forest landowners and their advisors in filing their 2013 income tax returns. The information presented is current as of Sept. 15, 2013: http://www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/loa/tax.shtml

FORESTRY TAXATION VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE
The Forest Landowners Tax Council (The FLTC) has produced a couple educational programs about forestry related taxation. The latest is entitled “Taxation of Forestry Income.” These videos can be found at TheFLTC YouTube Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheFLTC

SEE WHAT'S NEW AT UF/IFAS WEST FLORIDA REC
The latest version of the West Florida Research & Education Center newsletter is now available at: http://wfrec.ifas.ufl.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/NewsletterSept2013.pdf 

NEW STEWARDSHIP RELATED UF/IFAS EXTENSION PUBLICATIONS ON EDIS
EASTERN DIAMONDBACK RATTLESNAKES
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service was recently petitioned to list the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, historically found in the lower Coastal Plain from North Carolina to Louisiana, as a threatened or endangered species.  As the Service reviews the status of the eastern diamondback, the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) is soliciting information about observations of the snake to improve understanding of its distribution and habitat associations.  If you encounter an eastern diamondback rattlesnake, we would greatly appreciate your completing a short online survey here: http://www.ncasi.org/snakesurvey.aspx

This webpage also contains links to photos and other information that will help survey respondents distinguish eastern diamondbacks from the timber rattlesnake.  NCASI will remove any information that would identify individual respondents and/or landowners, as well as precise locations, before providing results to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.  For more information, please contact Dr. Ben Wigley at 864-656-0840 or  bwigley@ncasi.org

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES? 
Do you have pests or a disease in your trees? Leaves or needles wilting, and you don’t know why? Sawdust falling out of your trees, and you don’t know how to save them? There is help: contact the new Forest Health Diagnostics service at the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation: http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forestinsects/index.shtml. 

We are a group of forest health specialists at the University of Florida/IFAS. We guarantee fast and the most accurate forest pest and disease diagnostics available in the State of Florida. For a fee of $8, we can help you save your stand that’s worth thousands.

PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled  to learn more and participate.

HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
Your help is still needed in this study. The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote and bobcat diets in Florida. Of particular interest is the importance of popular wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, and bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets in the diet of these predators. Diets will be determined by examining the stomach contents of coyotes and bobcats legally harvested or obtained in Florida. We are asking for your help in obtaining legally acquired coyote and bobcat carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote and bobcat stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. If you have at least 5 animals that you would like to provide us, you can contact Lauren Watine (352-846-0558; lnwatine@ufl.edu) or Bill Giuliano (352-846-0575; docg@ufl.edu) at the University of Florida to arrange for pickup. If you have fewer than 5 animals or are going to be coming through Gainesville, arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!

FLORIDA RESIDENTS ASKED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OF RARE SNAKE
Information on current distribution and abundance of the southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) is needed, and your observations can help FWC biologists evaluate their status. These snakes spend much of their time underground in dry, upland habitats and are difficult to survey. Participate here: https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF PANTHER, CHIPMUNK, and MINK SIGHTINGS
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

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA CONTINUING FORESTRY EDUCATION CLASSES 
See http://conted.warnell.uga.edu/ for the latest offerings.

ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION FORESTRY WEBINARS

UF/IFAS SFRC ONLINE EVENTS / EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS
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Friday, September 27, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 9/27/13

FORESTRY TAXATION VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE
Through a grant provided by the Forest Landowners Foundation, the Forest Landowners Tax Council (The FLTC) has produced a couple educational programs about forestry related taxation. The latest is entitled “Taxation of Forestry Income.” These videos can be found at TheFLTC YouTube Channel:

EASTERN DIAMONDBACK RATTLESNAKES
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service was recently petitioned to list the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, historically found in the lower Coastal Plain from North Carolina to Louisiana, as a threatened or endangered species.  As the Service reviews the status of the eastern diamondback, the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) is soliciting information about observations of the snake to improve understanding of its distribution and habitat associations.  If you encounter an eastern diamondback rattlesnake, we would greatly appreciate your completing a short online survey here:http://www.ncasi.org/snakesurvey.aspx
This webpage also contains links to photos and other information that will help survey respondents distinguish eastern diamondbacks from the timber rattlesnake.  NCASI will remove any information that would identify individual respondents and/or landowners, as well as precise locations, before providing results to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.  For more information, please contact Dr. Ben Wigley at 864-656-0840 or  bwigley@ncasi.org

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES?
Do you have pests or a disease in your trees? Leaves or needles wilting, and you don’t know why? Sawdust falling out of your trees, and you don’t know how to save them? There is help: contact the new Forest Health Diagnostics service at the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation: http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forestinsects/index.shtml.

We are a group of forest health specialists at the University of Florida/IFAS. We guarantee fast and the most accurate forest pest and disease diagnostics available in the State of Florida. For a fee of $8, we can help you save your stand that’s worth thousands.

PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled  to learn more and participate.

HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
Your help is still needed in this study. The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote and bobcat diets in Florida. Of particular interest is the importance of popular wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, and bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets in the diet of these predators. Diets will be determined by examining the stomach contents of coyotes and bobcats legally harvested or obtained in Florida. We are asking for your help in obtaining legally acquired coyote and bobcat carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote and bobcat stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. If you have at least 5 animals that you would like to provide us, you can contact Lauren Watine (352-846-0558; lnwatine@ufl.edu) or Bill Giuliano (352-846-0575; docg@ufl.edu) at the University of Florida to arrange for pickup. If you have fewer than 5 animals or are going to be coming through Gainesville, arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!

FLORIDA RESIDENTS ASKED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OF RARE SNAKES
Information on current distribution and abundance of the southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) is needed, and your observations can help FWC biologists evaluate their status. These snakes spend much of their time underground in dry, upland habitats and are difficult to survey. Participate here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF PANTHER, CHIPMUNK, and MINK SIGHTINGS
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

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

ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION FORESTRY WEBINARS
See http://www.aces.edu/natural-resources/forestry/

ONLINE EVENTS / EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS
http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/Extension/florida_forestry_information/events_calendar/online_events.html



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Friday, September 20, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 9/20/13

FLORIDA FOREST INVENTORY ANALYSIS STUDY RELEASED
A Comprehensive Statewide Forest Inventory Analysis Study (CSFIAS), was mandated by the Florida legislature in 2012 (House Bill 7117), to evaluate timber resources in Florida with regard to distribution, availability, and sustainability on a statewide, multi-county and county basis. The Florida Forest Service contracted with Photo Science Company to conduct the necessary analyses, prepare final reports and furnish geospatial data which can be further analyzed and updated, as needed.  The study focused on mapping forestland cover, identifying forestland ownership, and analyzing the growth and demand for timber resources by Florida’s primary wood-using mills.  For access to the products see:
http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Florida-Forest-Service/Forest-Inventory

 EASTERN DIAMONDBACK RATTLESNAKES
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service was recently petitioned to list the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, historically found in the lower Coastal Plain from North Carolina to Louisiana, as a threatened or endangered species.  As the Service reviews the status of the eastern diamondback, the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) is soliciting information about observations of the snake to improve understanding of its distribution and habitat associations.  If you encounter an eastern diamondback rattlesnake, we would greatly appreciate your completing a short online survey here: http://www.ncasi.org/snakesurvey.aspx

This webpage also contains links to photos and other information that will help survey respondents distinguish eastern diamondbacks from the timber rattlesnake.  NCASI will remove any information that would identify individual respondents and/or landowners, as well as precise locations, before providing results to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.  For more information, please contact Dr. Ben Wigley at 864-656-0840 or  bwigley@ncasi.org

 SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES?
Do you have pests or a disease in your trees? Leaves or needles wilting, and you don’t know why? Sawdust falling out of your trees, and you don’t know how to save them? There is help: contact the new Forest Health Diagnostics service at the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation: http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forestinsects/index.shtml. We are a group of forest health specialists at the University of Florida/IFAS. We guarantee fast and the most accurate forest pest and disease diagnostics available in the State of Florida. For a fee of $8, we can help you save your stand that’s worth thousands.

PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled  to learn more and participate.

FLORIDA RESIDENTS ASKED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OF RARE SNAKES
Information on current distribution and abundance of the southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) is needed, and your observations can help FWC biologists evaluate their status. These snakes spend much of their time underground in dry, upland habitats and are difficult to survey. Participate here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF PANTHER, CHIPMUNK, and MINK SIGHTINGS
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

 HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
Your help is still needed in this study. The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote and bobcat diets in Florida. Of particular interest is the importance of popular wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, and bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets in the diet of these predators. Diets will be determined by examining the stomach contents of coyotes and bobcats legally harvested or obtained in Florida. We are asking for your help in obtaining legally acquired coyote and bobcat carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote and bobcat stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. If you have at least 5 animals that you would like to provide us, you can contact Lauren Watine (352-846-0558; lnwatine@ufl.edu) or Bill Giuliano (352-846-0575; docg@ufl.edu) at the University of Florida to arrange for pickup. If you have fewer than 5 animals or are going to be coming through Gainesville, arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!

 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

ONLINE EVENTS / EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS
http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/Extension/florida_forestry_information/events_calendar/online_events.html
Posted by at No comments:

Friday, September 6, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 9/6/13

SOMETHING BUGGING YOUR TREES?
Do you have a pests or a disease in your trees? Leaves or needles wilting, and you don’t know why? Sawdust falling out of your trees, and you don’t know how to save them? There is help: contact the new Forest Health Diagnostics service at the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation: http://sfrc.ufl.edu/forestinsects/index.shtml. We are a group of forest health specialists at the University of Florida/IFAS. We guarantee fast and the most accurate forest pest and disease diagnostics available in the State of Florida. For a fee of $8, we can help you save your stand that’s worth thousands.

PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled  to learn more and participate.

FLORIDA RESIDENTST ASKED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OF RARE SNAKES
Information on current distribution and abundance of the southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) is needed, and your observations can help FWC biologists evaluate their status. These snakes spend much of their time underground in dry, upland habitats and are difficult to survey. Participate here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF PANTHER, CHIPMUNK, and MINK SIGHTINGS
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

HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
Your help is still needed in this study. The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote and bobcat diets in Florida. Of particular interest is the importance of popular wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, and bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets in the diet of these predators. Diets will be determined by examining the stomach contents of coyotes and bobcats legally harvested or obtained in Florida. We are asking for your help in obtaining legally acquired coyote and bobcat carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote and bobcat stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. If you have at least 5 animals that you would like to provide us, you can contact Lauren Watine (352-846-0558; lnwatine@ufl.edu) or Bill Giuliano (352-846-0575; docg@ufl.edu) at the University of Florida to arrange for pickup. If you have fewer than 5 animals or are going to be coming through Gainesville, arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!

 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

ONLINE EVENTS / EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS
http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/Extension/florida_forestry_information/events_calendar/online_events.html



Posted by at No comments:

Friday, August 30, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 8/30/13

WILDLIFE BMPs FOR FORESTRY 
A subcommittee of the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services' Silviculture Best Management Practices Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) is working on the development of wildlife BMPs for forestry activities intended to avoid a "take" of certain state listed species, both aquatic and terrestrial. The subcommittee includes representatives of the Florida Fish and Widlife Conservation Commission, other key state and federal agencies, Florida Forestry Association, and an environmental organization. Draft BMPs will be presented to the full TAC this fall for discussion and possible approval.

USDA NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE (NRCS) CONSERVATION PLAN ASSISTANCE
Creating a conservation plan is a free service in conserving water, improving air quality, and reducing soil erosion. It’s your plan to use as you wish – a guide to using your natural resources more efficiently. Agricultural producers can request technical assistance and develop a conservation plan at any time. The NRCS's mission is providing science-based conservation assistance for the management of natural resources; for present and future generations. Additional information on NRCS, conservation assistance, and programs is available on the web at http://www.fl.nrcs.usda.gov or at your local USDA - NRCS office. To find the nearest office go to your telephone directory under “U. S. Government, Department of Agriculture”, or http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app

FLORIDA RESIDENTST ASKED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OF RARE SNAKES
Information on current distribution and abundance of the southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) is needed, and your observations can help FWC biologists evaluate their status. These snakes spend much of their time underground in dry, upland habitats and are difficult to survey. Participate here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=

DEER REGULATION CHANGES LIKELY FOR NORTHWEST FLORIDA 
Following months of meetings and evaluations of public preferences, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has formulated possible changes to deer hunting regulations in northwest Florida for the 2014-15 hunting season. The changes are intended to improve hunter satisfaction. Details here:
http://www.pnj.com/article/20130823/SPORTS05/308230028/Deer-regulation-changes-likely-Northwest-Florida?nclick_check=1

PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled to learn more and participate.

HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
Your help is still needed in this study. The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote and bobcat diets in Florida. Of particular interest is the importance of popular wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, and bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets in the diet of these predators. Diets will be determined by examining the stomach contents of coyotes and bobcats legally harvested or obtained in Florida. We are asking for your help in obtaining legally acquired coyote and bobcat carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote and bobcat stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. If you have at least 5 animals that you would like to provide us, you can contact Lauren Watine (352-846-0558; lnwatine@ufl.edu) or Bill Giuliano (352-846-0575; docg@ufl.edu) at the University of Florida to arrange for pickup. If you have fewer than 5 animals or are going to be coming through Gainesville, arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!

FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF PANTHER, CHIPMUNK, and MINK SIGHTINGS
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

BARK & AMBROSIA BEETLE ACADEMY COMING IN MAY 2014
The Forest Entomology Lab at the University of Florida is pleased to invite you to a comprehensive workshop on bark and ambrosia beetles in May 2014.

Are you a landowner or a naturalist interested in bark and ambrosia beetles?

A forester in charge of pests?

An extension agent with clients in forestry and natural resources?

A researcher with beetle-related projects?

You probably need to understand bark and ambrosia beetles, their damage, and biology! Learn from a team of experts through hands-on labs, field demonstration, and lectures. Choose one, two, or all three modules: Regional Applied Focus, Hardcore Identification, and Understanding the Bug. See details and sign up for updates at http://www.ambrosiasymbiosis.org/academy/

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

ONLINE EVENTS / EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS
http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/Extension/florida_forestry_information/events_calendar/online_events.html
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Friday, August 23, 2013

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 8/23/13

FARMERS REDISCOVER COVER CROPS AND CONSERVATION PLANNING: OLD PRACTICES TAKING ROOT
Gainesville, FL., August 23, 2013 – It’s something old and something new. It’s something borrowed and something…well, green.  Cover cropping, a traditional conservation practice considered old-fashioned by many in modern agriculture, is being “borrowed” and used in new ways by innovative farmers to improve their soil’s health, and with it, the health of their businesses’ bottom lines. “Today’s agricultural producers are rediscovering how to make cover crops work on their farms, with some impressive results,” says Mimi Williams, state conservation agronomist and plant materials specialist with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida.  “Producer bottom lines are improved when cover crops are used by suppressing weeds and reducing pesticide use.”

In addition, legume cover crops provide essentially free nitrogen which reduces fertilizer costs. Increased soil organic matter from these cover crops slows rainfall filtering through the ground and improves water holding capacity, which reduces irrigation costs. Over the last five years interest in cover crops has surged, driven by many interacting factors such as those mentioned above plus cover crop cost-share programs and new GPS-guidance technologies that enable new ways of using cover crops. This is where the USDA NRCS can help.  Through technical assistance, conservation planning, and conservation programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program NRCS is working to help farmers adapt those practices to their farms.

NRCS is making an extra effort to show Florida agricultural producers how conservation planning can help your land's natural resources. We are encouraging farmers and ranchers to come in to our office and request help developing your conservation plan. Creating a conservation plan is a free service from our experts in conserving water, improving air quality, and reducing soil erosion. It’s your plan to use as you wish – a guide to using your natural resources more efficiently.  Cover crops are just one option in a conservation plan.  Good soil health management plans offer a variety of on-farm benefits and options for building organic matter, increasing the soil’s water-holding capacity, and suppressing pests, diseases and weeds. And the benefits of improved soil health extend beyond the farm. The public also benefits when producers manage their soil health because soils that allow increased infiltration and have good water-holding capacity reduce runoff that causes flooding. Improved infiltration also keeps nutrients and sediment from being carried off-site into nearby lakes, rivers, and streams.

Agricultural producers can request technical assistance and develop a conservation plan at any time. Our mission is providing science-based conservation assistance for the management of natural resources; for present and future generations. Additional information on NRCS, conservation assistance, and programs is available on the web at http://www.fl.nrcs.usda.gov or at your local USDA - NRCS office. To find the nearest office go to your telephone directory under “U. S. Government, Department of Agriculture”, or http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app. 


FLORIDA RESIDENTST ASKED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OF RARE SNAKES
Information on current distribution and abundance of the southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), short-tailed snake (Lampropeltis extenuata), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus) is needed, and your observations can help FWC biologists evaluate their status. These snakes spend much of their time underground in dry, upland habitats and are difficult to survey. Participate here:
https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/UserHome.aspx?id=


DEER REGULATION CHANGES LIKELY FOR NORTHWEST FLORIDA
Following months of meetings and evaluations of public preferences, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has formulated possible changes to deer hunting regulations in northwest Florida for the 2014-15 hunting season. The changes are intended to improve hunter satisfaction. Details here:
http://www.pnj.com/article/20130823/SPORTS05/308230028/Deer-regulation-changes-likely-Northwest-Florida


PUBLIC INVITED TO REVIEW FWC IMPERILED SPECIES ACTION PLANS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites your feedback on the Imperiled Species Management Plan, which will be the blueprint for conserving 60 species on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species list. Be a part the process. See http://www.myfwc.com/Imperiled to learn more and participate.


FLORIDA INVASIVE SPECIES PARTNERSHIP: INVASIVE SPECIES KNOW NO BOUNDARIES
Public and private land managers in Florida agree that invasive non-native species are a statewide problem with high ecological and economic costs. The Florida Invasive Species Partnership (FISP) is a collaboration of federal, state and local agencies along with non-government organizations, all with a stake in managing invasive non-native species in Florida. Because species can spread beyond fence lines, our goal is to connect private landowners and public land managers with invasive species expertise and assistance programs across boundaries. All stakeholders, both public and private, can benefit from collaborative efforts to reduce the threat. FISP increases communication, coordination and the sharing of resources to protect Florida's natural landscape. FISP:
  • Encourages voluntary partnerships, such as Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas
  • Provides information and contacts on assistance and incentive programs for private landowners 
  • Connects to tools and resources
  • Enables the reporting and mapping of invasive species
See http://www.floridainvasives.org/ for details.


HELP STILL NEEDED - COYOTES VS BOBCATS: WHAT ARE THEY EATING?
Your help is still needed in this study. The University of Florida is conducting a study of coyote and bobcat diets in Florida. Of particular interest is the importance of popular wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, and bobwhite quail, livestock, and pets in the diet of these predators. Diets will be determined by examining the stomach contents of coyotes and bobcats legally harvested or obtained in Florida. We are asking for your help in obtaining legally acquired coyote and bobcat carcasses, with or without pelts. We will also accept coyote and bobcat stomachs and intestines if you cannot store the whole carcass. If you have at least 5 animals that you would like to provide us, you can contact Lauren Watine (352-846-0558; lnwatine@ufl.edu) or Bill Giuliano (352-846-0575; docg@ufl.edu) at the University of Florida to arrange for pickup. If you have fewer than 5 animals or are going to be coming through Gainesville, arrangements can be made to get carcasses from you at the University or combine your animals with others in your area for a pickup. Carcasses or stomachs and intestines should be frozen in a suitable bag or container, and include the name of contributor, animal sex, date harvested/obtained, and location harvested/obtained. We have obtained a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for this project, and will keep information provided by you for this project anonymous to the extent possible by law. We greatly appreciate your help with this valuable study!


FWC REQUESTS REPORTS OF PANTHER, CHIPMUNK, and MINK SIGHTINGS
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


BARK & AMBROSIA BEETLE ACADEMY COMING IN MAY 2014
The Forest Entomology Lab at the University of Florida is pleased to invite you to a comprehensive workshop on bark and ambrosia beetles in May 2014.

Are you a landowner or a naturalist interested in bark and ambrosia beetles?

A forester in charge of pests?

An extension agent with clients in forestry and natural resources?

A researcher with beetle-related projects?

You probably need to understand bark and ambrosia beetles, their damage, and biology! Learn from a team of experts through hands-on labs, field demonstration, and lectures. Choose one, two, or all three modules: Regional Applied Focus, Hardcore Identification, and Understanding the Bug. See details and sign up for updates at http://www.ambrosiasymbiosis.org/academy/.


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


ONLINE EVENTS / EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS
http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/Extension/florida_forestry_information/events_calendar/online_events.html
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