FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 3/14/14

TO CERTIFY OR NOT: FLORIDA TREE FARM PROGRAM NEEDS TO DECIDE
Something that sets the American Tree Farm System (ATFS) apart from all other private land stewardship programs is forest certification.  ATFS Tree Farms are currently third party certified as sustainable (or “green”) and products can be sold as such at market.  Florida, along with the other states are now being presented with a choice to make: to either stay in or opt out of ATFS Certification status depending on the importance we see in it.  The Florida Tree Farm Committee will be required to make a formal declaration by December 31, 2015 of whether or not we want to continue as a state program of “third party certified” Tree Farms.  The alternative is to revert to a “recognition” program that no longer has a “certification” status.  As Tree Farmers, The Florida Tree Farm Committee would like your opinion of whether Florida should remain in a “certified” Tree Farm program, or drop the requirement for third party certification.  Please reply with any comments you may have on this to Phil Gornicki, State Tree Farm Coordinator at 850-222-5646 or phil@forestfla.org.

SITES NEEDED FOR UF COGONGRASS RESEARCH STUDY
Dr. Luke Flory, UF-IFAS Agronomy Dept, is looking at the effects of cogongrass invasion and soil moisture availability on longleaf pine seedling recruitment. He's looking for sites on private lands that would be suitable for his research. Here's what he's looking for:

1. At least 10 sites total that span the broadest possible range of soil moisture availability from upland sand hills to flatwoods.
2. All sites need to be invaded by cogongrass – the invasion doesn't have to be contiguous but that would be best. The total area invaded needs to be about 1/4 to 1/3 acre.
3. The less management over the last 2-3 years the better – and no planned management for the next few years at least. Okay if the surrounding area is managed, just not our plots.
4. Longleaf overstory if possible.
5. Within 2 hours travel time of Gainesville.

If you have a site that fits the criteria, contact Dr. Flory at (352) 294-1581, flory@ufl.edu

FWC TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETINGS IN CENTRAL FL FOR INPUT ON MANAGING BEARS
This month, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will hold seven public meetings to discuss conservation and management of black bears in central Florida and how people can get involved.  Under the FWC’s Florida Black Bear Management Plan approved in 2012, seven bear management units (BMUs) will be established throughout the state. The BMU approach will allow the FWC to manage bears based on the characteristics of bears, people and habitat in different parts of Florida. The first steps are being taken to create the Central BMU to manage bears in central Florida, which includes the state’s largest bear subpopulation in the Ocala National Forest and surrounding areas. The meetings will offer the public a chance to provide input on local bear issues and allow interested individuals to sign up to be active members of the Central Bear Stakeholder Group. The meetings will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the following locations:

• March 18 - DeLand, City Hall, 120 S. Florida Ave.
• March 19 - Fort McCoy, Whiteacre Memorial VFW Post 1020, 23498 NE Highway 314.
• March 20 - Palatka, Ravine Gardens State Park, 1600 Twigg St.
• March 25 - Gainesville, City Hall, 200 E. University Ave.

UF-IFAS SMALL FARMS ACADEMY
The goal of the Small Farms Academy is to train small farmers by providing unique, hands-on classes, workshops, and field days on specific topics in order to sustain existing small farms and increase the number of new small farms. All events here:
http://www.eventbrite.com/o/ufifas-small-farms-academy-753039635

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: 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!

"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

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/winter-2014/

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/

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 3/7/14

Listen to the Southeast AgNet interview about the upcoming Forest Stewardship Tour on 3/13.
Jim Helmers, owner and operator of Rocky Creek Timber, invites landowners interested in converting their land to longleaf pine to attend the upcoming Longleaf Pine Restoration Tour next week. There is still room to register: http://fsp-tour031314.eventbrite.com/

INVASIVE SPECIES AWARENESS WEEK
Last week was National Invasive Species Awareness Week but every week is in Florida! Non-native plants, animals and pathogens can harm humans and the environment and impact our nation's economy. The cost of damage done by invasive plants alone is in the billions of dollars per year. Invasive weeds can produce skin irritation, trigger allergies and poison pets and livestock. They can clog waterways, kill native trees, and shade out crops, ornamentals and prized native flora. They are found in every imaginable habitat, including oceans, lakes, streams, wetlands, croplands, rangelands, natural areas, parks, forests, urban environments, yards and gardens.

Eight Ways You Can Help

1. Learn about invasive species. Visit the Florida Invasive Species Partnership web site to learn about our invasive species challenges, partnership efforts to address them and how you can get involved: http://www.floridainvasives.org/
2. Clean hiking boots, waders, boats and trailers, off-road vehicles and other gear to stop invasive species from hitching a ride to a new location.
3. Avoid dumping aquariums or live bait into waterways.
4. Use forage, hay, mulch and soil that are certified as "weed free."
5. Plant only non-invasive plants in your garden, and remove any known invaders.
6. Report new or expanded invasive species outbreaks on EDDMAPS: http://www.eddmaps.org/florida/
7. Volunteer to help remove invasive species from public lands and natural areas.
8. Ask your political representatives at the state, local and national level to support invasive species control efforts.

SITES NEEDED FOR UF COGONGRASS RESEARCH STUDY
Speaking of invasive species, Dr. Luke Flory, UF-IFAS Agronomy Dept, is looking at the effects of cogongrass invasion and soil moisture availability on longleaf pine seedling recruitment. He's looking for sites on private lands that would be suitable for his research. Here's what he's looking for:

1. At least 10 sites total that span the broadest possible range of soil moisture availability from upland sand hills to flatwoods.
2. All sites need to be invaded by cogongrass – the invasion doesn't have to be contiguous but that would be best. The total area invaded needs to be about 1/4 to 1/3 acre.
3. The less management over the last 2-3 years the better – and no planned management for the next few years at least. Okay if the surrounding area is managed, just not our plots.
4. Longleaf overstory if possible.
5. Within 2 hours travel time of Gainesville.

If you have a site that fits the criteria, contact Dr. Flory at (352) 294-1581, flory@ufl.edu

FWC TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETINGS IN CENTRAL FL FOR INPUT ON MANAGING BEARS
This month, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will hold seven public meetings to discuss conservation and management of black bears in central Florida and how people can get involved.  Under the FWC’s Florida Black Bear Management Plan approved in 2012, seven bear management units (BMUs) will be established throughout the state. The BMU approach will allow the FWC to manage bears based on the characteristics of bears, people and habitat in different parts of Florida. The first steps are being taken to create the Central BMU to manage bears in central Florida, which includes the state’s largest bear subpopulation in the Ocala National Forest and surrounding areas. The meetings will offer the public a chance to provide input on local bear issues and allow interested individuals to sign up to be active members of the Central Bear Stakeholder Group. The meetings will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the following locations:

• March 11 - Ocala, Howard Middle School Cafetorium, 1655 NW 10th St.
• March 18 - DeLand, City Hall, 120 S. Florida Ave.
• March 19 - Fort McCoy, Whiteacre Memorial VFW Post 1020, 23498 NE Highway 314.
• March 20 - Palatka, Ravine Gardens State Park, 1600 Twigg St.
• March 25 - Gainesville, City Hall, 200 E. University Ave.

UF-IFAS SMALL FARMS ACADEMY
The goal of the Small Farms Academy is to train small farmers by providing unique, hands-on classes, workshops, and field days on specific topics in order to sustain existing small farms and increase the number of new small farms. All events here:
http://www.eventbrite.com/o/ufifas-small-farms-academy-753039635

PINEMAP VIDEO RELEASED
The Pine Integrated Network (PINEMAP) project integrates research, extension, and education to enable private landowners to manage forests to increase carbon sequestration; increase efficiency of nitrogen and other fertilizer inputs;  and adapt forest management approaches to increase forest resilience and sustainability.   Watch this six minute PINEMAP video focused on forest health management strategies, produced by Shelby Krantz, School of Forest Resources and Conservation, University of Florida: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLnxKfFIDJ4

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: 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!

"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

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/winter-2014/

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/

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 2/21/14

PINEMAP VIDEO RELEASED
The Pine Integrated Network (PINEMAP) project integrates research, extension, and education to enable private landowners to manage forests to increase carbon sequestration; increase efficiency of nitrogen and other fertilizer inputs;  and adapt forest management approaches to increase forest resilience and sustainability.   Watch this six minute PINEMAP video focused on forest health management strategies, produced by Shelby Krantz, School of Forest Resources and Conservation, University of Florida: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLnxKfFIDJ4

More about PINEMAP at: http://www.pinemap.org/

SITES NEEDED FOR UF COGONGRASS RESEARCH STUDY
Dr. Luke Flory, of the UF-IFAS Agronomy Dept, is looking at the effects of cogongrass invasion and soil moisture availability on longleaf pine seedling recruitment. He's looking for sites on private lands that would be suitable for his research. Here's what he's looking for:

1. At least 10 sites total that span the broadest possible range of soil moisture availability from upland sand hills to flatwoods.
2. All sites need to be invaded by cogongrass – the invasion doesn't have to be contiguous but that would be best. The total area invaded only  needs to be about quarter to a third of an acre.
3. The less management over the last 2-3 years the better – and no planned management for the next few years at least. Okay if the surrounding area is managed, just not our plots.
4. Longleaf overstory if possible.
5. Closer to Gainesville the better (we'll be doing a lot of treatments and measurements).

If you have a site that fits the criteria, contact Dr. Flory at (352) 294-1581, flory@ufl.edu

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF THE COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE
In 2014, UF/IFAS Extension celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Smith-Lever Act, which established the Cooperative Extension Service, a state-by-state national network of educators who extend university-based knowledge to the people. In Florida, Extension allows us all to benefit from the research and education of our land-grant universities, the University of Florida and Florida A&M University. More info at: http://ifas.ufl.edu/smith-lever100.shtml

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: 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!

"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

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/winter-2014/

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/

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 2/7/14

USDA GRANTS FUND AG PRODUCERS FOR CONSERVATION INNOVATION
Agricultural producers can now apply for grants to develop conservation approaches and technologies on private agricultural and forest lands.
About $15 million will be made available nationwide by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). State and local governments, federally recognized Indian tribes, non-governmental and educational organizations, private businesses and individuals are eligible to apply.

Priority will be given to applications that relate to nutrient management, energy conservation, soil health, air quality, climate change, wildlife, economics, sociology, environmental markets, food safety, historically underserved groups, or assessments of past CIG projects.
For more on this grant opportunity, visit http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/cig/index.html. To apply electronically, visit www.grants.gov.

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF THE COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE
In 2014, UF/IFAS Extension celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Smith-Lever Act, which established the Cooperative Extension Service, a state-by-state national network of educators who extend university-based knowledge to the people. In Florida, Extension allows us all to benefit from the research and education of our land-grant universities, the University of Florida and Florida A&M University.

We, the Extension faculty and staff in the UF/IFAS School of Forest Resources and Conservation and Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, are proud of our accomplishments on this 100th anniversary, and we look continuously toward the future, finding solutions to the challenges we Floridians will face over the next 100 years and sharing them to make life healthier, happier, and more prosperous for you. More info at:
http://ifas.ufl.edu/smith-lever100.shtml

VALENTINE'S DAY DEADLINE FOR FARM AND RANCH LANDS PROTECTION PROGRAM SIGN-UP
Applications are due February 14, 2014 for the Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program to help Florida farmers and ranchers keep their land in agricultural production. The US Department of Agriculture’s program, administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), provides matching funds to sponsoring entities such as State, Tribal or local governments and nongovernmental organizations with existing farmland protection programs to purchase conservation easements. Interested landowners must first work with one of these eligible entities with funds necessary to match the federal contribution from NRCS. NRCS provides up to 50 percent of the fair market value of the conservation easement.

Applications should be submitted to the attention of Nina Bhattacharyya, USDA-NRCS, 2614 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL, 32606. NRCS accepts applications for FRPP funding on a continuous basis throughout the year, but to be considered for ranking and selection in fiscal year 2014, applications must be received at the Florida NRCS office by the Feb. 14 deadline. Applications received after this date will be held for a future ranking period.
For more information contact Nina Bhattacharyya, FRPP program manager, 352-338-9554.

AGRICULTURAL ASSISTANCE OPPORTUNITIES FROM USDA NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE - APPLICATIONS DUE 2/21/14
The 2008 Farm Bill was recently granted a short extension by Congress. This extension allows the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida to give farmers and ranchers an additional opportunity to improve water and air quality, build healthier soil, improve forest lands, conserve energy, enhance organic operations, and achieve other environmental benefits. Interested producers should visit their local NRCS service center now to receive more information on these programs:

Organic Initiative--helps producers install conservation practices on USDA certified organic operations or those working toward organic certification.
Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative--helps producers install high tunnels designed to extend the growing season, increase productivity, keep plants at a steady temperature, and conserve water and energy.
On-farm Energy Initiative--helps producers conserve energy on their operations.
Longleaf Pine Initiative--helps private landowners improve the sustainability and profitability of Longleaf pine forest ecosystems.

Working Lands for Wildlife Initiative--provides technical and financial assistance for landowners who voluntarily choose to implement conservation practices that benefit the habitat of the target species--the gopher tortoise in Florida--while continuing to manage the habitat as working lands.
Gulf of Mexico Initiative--helps producers located in the Escambia River and Middle Suwannee River Area watersheds to focus on reducing soil erosion, improving soil health, improving water quality, and wildlife habitat on cropland, pastureland and forestland. Producers located in these watersheds can sign up for assistance under this initiative by contacting the local NRCS office below:

Suwannee County District Conservationist Chris Menhennett at (386) 362-2622, x3, 10096 Highway 129, Live Oak, FL, 32060.
Lafayette County District Conservationist Melvin DeShazior at (386) 294-1851, x3, 176 SW Community Circle, Suite C, Mayo, FL, 32066.
Escambia County District Conservationist Josh McElhaney at (850) 587-5404, x3, 151 Highway 97, Molino, FL, 32577.
Santa Rosa County District Conservationist Trent Mathews at (850) 623-3229, x3, 6285 Dogwood Drive, Milton, FL, 32570-3544.

After talking to your local NRCS staff, producers may apply for conservation technical assistance and possible financial assistance under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP). Applications must be filed no later than February 21, 2014, to be eligible for this year’s funding.

Additional information on NRCS, conservation assistance, and available programs is offered on its website at www.fl.nrcs.usda.gov or at your local USDA - NRCS office. To find the nearest office go to: http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app.

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: 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!

"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

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/winter-2014/

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/

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 1/31/14

WINTER FISH KILLS
Noticing fish mortality in your ponds? When the water or air temperatures fall below a critical level (scientifically termed a lower lethal temperature) for a particular species, they will die.  Humans, for example, can die due to hypothermia, when their body core temperature falls below a critical level.  As a result of Florida having a sub-tropical climate and several years of mild winters, quite a few exotic tropical fish species have become established or extended their range further into North Florida.  This year, we have record–setting cold temperatures.  Our nighttime low temperatures have been very low, and our daily high temperatures have also been lower than normal.  When this occurs, our water temperatures rapidly fall, often below the lethal temperature for many species.  This combination of a recent history of mild winters combined with an unusually cold winter can result in large die offs of tropical fish such as blue tilapia (http://www.myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/fish/freshwater/nonnatives/blue-tilapia/ ) and suckermouth catfish (http://www.myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/fish/freshwater/nonnatives/suckermouth-catfish/ ), among others.

In addition to exotic fish species, some of our native (indigenous) aquatic species are also prone to cold-weather-induced kills.  Gizzard and threadfin shad often die during cold weather.  In Florida, we also have the Florida subspecies of the largemouth bass, which has evolved in Florida’s subtropical climate.  Florida largemouth bass can die due to low water temperatures, while the ‘Northern’ largemouth bass survives.  Marine species, such as our common snook, tarpon, and sea trout, can also die, especially if they are located in shallow areas that experience rapid drops in water temperature.

Even if fish don’t immediately die due to the cold, they will often become stressed, which can make them more susceptible to future illnesses (such as bacterial and fungal infections).  Some of these fish may later die, if their illnesses are severe.  Even if they don’t die, many may have temporary sores on the exterior parts of their bodies.  See Stress – Its role in fish disease (http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fa005 ).

There are other reasons as to why fish die.  To learn more about cold-induced and other types of fish kills, see our Florida LakeWatch Extension circular #107 (A Beginner’s Guide to Water Management – Fish Kills), which can be found at http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fa104
If you want additional information, contact Chuck Cichra, UF/IFAS Extension Fisheries Specialist, cecichra@ufl.edu, (352) 273-3621, http://sfrc.ufl.edu/people/faculty/cichra/

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF THE COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE
In 2014, UF/IFAS Extension celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Smith-Lever Act, which established the Cooperative Extension Service, a state-by-state national network of educators who extend university-based knowledge to the people. In Florida, Extension allows us all to benefit from the research and education of our land-grant universities, the University of Florida and Florida A&M University.

UF/IFAS Extension has improved the lives of Floridians in many ways. For those reading this newsletter, UF/IFAS Extension has likely helped you in managing your land resources such as timber, wildlife, livestock and row crops.  If you’ve learned about conserving water, saving money, or gardening, chances are you learned it from Extension. If you’ve ever been to a 4-H camp or gotten help from a Master Gardener or Master Naturalist, you know Extension.
We, the Extension faculty and staff in the UF/IFAS School of Forest Resources and Conservation and Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, are proud of our accomplishments on this 100th anniversary, and we look continuously toward the future, finding solutions to the challenges we Floridians will face over the next 100 years and sharing them to make life healthier, happier, and more prosperous for you.

USDA EXTENDS CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM APPLICATION DEADLINE TO FEBRUARY 7
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has extended the deadline for new enrollments in the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) to Feb. 7 for fiscal year 2014.

Through this program, NRCS provides financial and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers to conserve and enhance soil, water, air and related natural resources on their land. Producers earn higher payments for higher performance. CSP is available on Tribal and private agricultural lands and non-industrial private forest land.
Some popular enhancements 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.
A CSP self-screening checklist highlights eligibility requirements, stewardship threshold requirements and payment types.

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.
Learn more about CSP by visiting the NRCS website or any local USDA service center.

VALENTINE'S DAY DEADLINE FOR FARM AND RANCH LANDS PROTECTION PROGRAM SIGN-UP 
Applications are due February 14, 2014 for the Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program to help Florida farmers and ranchers keep their land in agricultural production. The US Department  of Agriculture’s program, administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), provides matching funds to sponsoring entities such as State, Tribal or local governments and nongovernmental organizations with existing farmland protection programs to purchase conservation easements. Interested landowners must first work with one of these eligible entities with funds necessary to match the federal contribution from NRCS. NRCS provides up to 50 percent of the fair market value of the conservation easement.

Applications should be submitted to the attention of Nina Bhattacharyya, USDA-NRCS, 2614 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL, 32606. NRCS accepts applications for FRPP funding on a continuous basis throughout the year, but to be considered for ranking and selection in fiscal year 2014, applications must be received at the Florida NRCS office by the Feb. 14 deadline. Applications received after this date will be held for a future ranking period.

For more information contact Nina Bhattacharyya, FRPP program manager, 352-338-9554.

AGRICULTURAL ASSISTANCE OPPORTUNITIES FROM USDA NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE - APPLICATIONS DUE 2/21/14
The 2008 Farm Bill was recently granted a short extension by Congress.  This extension allows the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida to give farmers and ranchers an additional opportunity to improve water and air quality, build healthier soil, improve forest lands, conserve energy, enhance organic operations, and achieve other environmental benefits. Interested producers should visit their local NRCS service center now to receive more information on these programs:

• Organic Initiative--helps producers install conservation practices on USDA certified organic operations or those working toward organic certification.
• Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative--helps producers install high tunnels designed to extend the growing season, increase productivity, keep plants at a steady temperature, and conserve water and energy.
• On-farm Energy Initiative--helps producers conserve energy on their operations.
• Longleaf Pine Initiative--helps private landowners improve the sustainability and profitability of Longleaf pine forest ecosystems.
• Working Lands for Wildlife Initiative--provides technical and financial assistance for landowners who voluntarily choose to implement conservation practices that benefit the habitat of the target species--the gopher tortoise in Florida--while continuing to manage the habitat as working lands.             
• Gulf of Mexico Initiative--helps producers located in the Escambia River and Middle Suwannee River Area watersheds to focus on reducing soil erosion, improving soil health, improving water quality, and wildlife habitat on cropland, pastureland and forestland.  Producers located in these watersheds can sign up for assistance under this initiative by contacting the local NRCS office below:
• Suwannee County District Conservationist Chris Menhennett at (386) 362-2622, x3, 10096 Highway 129, Live Oak, FL, 32060.
• Lafayette County District Conservationist Melvin DeShazior at (386)  294-1851, x3, 176 SW Community Circle, Suite C, Mayo, FL,  32066.  
• Escambia County District Conservationist Josh McElhaney at (850) 587-5404, x3, 151 Highway 97, Molino, FL, 32577.
• Santa Rosa County District Conservationist Trent Mathews at (850) 623-3229, x3, 6285 Dogwood Drive, Milton, FL, 32570-3544.                                                

After talking to your local NRCS staff, producers may apply for conservation technical assistance and possible financial assistance under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP).  Applications must be filed no later than February 21, 2014, to be eligible for this year’s funding.

Additional information on NRCS, conservation assistance, and available programs is offered on its website at www.fl.nrcs.usda.gov or at your local USDA - NRCS office. To find the nearest office go to: http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app.

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/winter-2014/

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/

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 1/24/14

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF THE COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE
In 2014, UF/IFAS Extension celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Smith-Lever Act, which established the Cooperative Extension Service, a state-by-state national network of educators who extend university-based knowledge to the people. In Florida, Extension allows us all to benefit from the research and education of our land-grant universities, the University of Florida and Florida A&M University.

UF/IFAS Extension has improved the lives of Floridians in many ways. For those reading this newsletter, UF/IFAS Extension has likely helped you in managing your land resources such as timber, wildlife, livestock and row crops.  If you’ve learned about conserving water, saving money, or gardening, chances are you learned it from Extension. If you’ve ever been to a 4-H camp or gotten help from a Master Gardener or Master Naturalist, you know Extension.

We, the Extension faculty and staff in the UF/IFAS School of Forest Resources and Conservation and Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, are proud of our accomplishments on this 100th anniversary, and we look continuously toward the future, finding solutions to the challenges we Floridians will face over the next 100 years and sharing them to make life healthier, happier, and more prosperous for you.

AGRICULTURAL ASSISTANCE OPPORTUNITIES FROM USDA NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE - APPLICATIONS DUE 2/21/14                                                                     
The 2008 Farm Bill was recently granted a short extension by Congress.  This extension allows the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida to give farmers and ranchers an additional opportunity to improve water and air quality, build healthier soil, improve forest lands, conserve energy, enhance organic operations, and achieve other environmental benefits. Interested producers should visit their local NRCS service center now to receive more information on these programs:

• Organic Initiative--helps producers install conservation practices on USDA certified organic operations or those working toward organic certification.
• Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative--helps producers install high tunnels designed to extend the growing season, increase productivity, keep plants at a steady temperature, and conserve water and energy.
• On-farm Energy Initiative--helps producers conserve energy on their operations.
• Longleaf Pine Initiative--helps private landowners improve the sustainability and profitability of Longleaf pine forest ecosystems.
• Working Lands for Wildlife Initiative--provides technical and financial assistance for landowners who voluntarily choose to implement conservation practices that benefit the habitat of the target species--the gopher tortoise in Florida--while continuing to manage the habitat as working lands.             
• Gulf of Mexico Initiative--helps producers located in the Escambia River and Middle Suwannee River Area watersheds to focus on reducing soil erosion, improving soil health, improving water quality, and wildlife habitat on cropland, pastureland and forestland.  Producers located in these watersheds can sign up for assistance under this initiative by contacting the local NRCS office below:
• Suwannee County District Conservationist Chris Menhennett at (386) 362-2622, x3, 10096 Highway 129, Live Oak, FL, 32060.
• Lafayette County District Conservationist Melvin DeShazior at (386)  294-1851, x3, 176 SW Community Circle, Suite C, Mayo, FL,  32066.  
• Escambia County District Conservationist Josh McElhaney at (850) 587-5404, x3, 151 Highway 97, Molino, FL, 32577.
• Santa Rosa County District Conservationist Trent Mathews at (850) 623-3229, x3, 6285 Dogwood Drive, Milton, FL, 32570-3544.                                                

After talking to your local NRCS staff, producers may apply for conservation technical assistance and possible financial assistance under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP).  Applications must be filed no later than February 21, 2014, to be eligible for this year’s funding.

Additional information on NRCS, conservation assistance, and available programs is offered on its website at www.fl.nrcs.usda.gov or at your local USDA - NRCS office. To find the nearest office go to: http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app.

USDA EXTENDS CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM APPLICATION DEADLINE TO FEBRUARY 7
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has extended the deadline for new enrollments in the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) to Feb. 7 for fiscal year 2014.

Through this program, NRCS provides financial and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers to conserve and enhance soil, water, air and related natural resources on their land. Producers earn higher payments for higher performance. CSP is available on Tribal and private agricultural lands and non-industrial private forest land.

Some popular enhancements 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.

A CSP self-screening checklist highlights eligibility requirements, stewardship threshold requirements and payment types.

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.
Learn more about CSP by visiting the NRCS website or any local USDA service center.

VALENTINE'S DAY DEADLINE FOR FARM AND RANCH LANDS PROTECTION PROGRAM SIGN-UP 
Applications are due February 14, 2014 for the Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program to help Florida farmers and ranchers keep their land in agricultural production. The US Department  of Agriculture’s program, administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), provides matching funds to sponsoring entities such as State, Tribal or local governments and nongovernmental organizations with existing farmland protection programs to purchase conservation easements. Interested landowners must first work with one of these eligible entities with funds necessary to match the federal contribution from NRCS. NRCS provides up to 50 percent of the fair market value of the conservation easement.

Applications should be submitted to the attention of Nina Bhattacharyya, USDA-NRCS, 2614 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL, 32606. NRCS accepts applications for FRPP funding on a continuous basis throughout the year, but to be considered for ranking and selection in fiscal year 2014, applications must be received at the Florida NRCS office by the Feb. 14 deadline. Applications received after this date will be held for a future ranking period.

For more information contact Nina Bhattacharyya, FRPP program manager, 352-338-9554.

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

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/

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 1/10/14

USDA EXTENDS CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM APPLICATION DEADLINE TO FEBRUARY 7
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has extended the deadline for new enrollments in the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) to Feb. 7 for fiscal year 2014.

Through this program, NRCS provides financial and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers to conserve and enhance soil, water, air and related natural resources on their land. Producers earn higher payments for higher performance. CSP is available on Tribal and private agricultural lands and non-industrial private forest land.

Some popular enhancements 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.

A CSP self-screening checklist highlights eligibility requirements, stewardship threshold requirements and payment types.
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.
Learn more about CSP by visiting the NRCS website or any local USDA service center.

VALENTINE'S DAY DEADLINE FOR FARM AND RANCH LANDS PROTECTION PROGRAM SIGN-UP
Applications are due February 14, 2014 for the Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program to help Florida farmers and ranchers keep their land in agricultural production. The US Department  of Agriculture’s program, administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), provides matching funds to sponsoring entities such as State, Tribal or local governments and nongovernmental organizations with existing farmland protection programs to purchase conservation easements. Interested landowners must first work with one of these eligible entities with funds necessary to match the federal contribution from NRCS. NRCS provides up to 50 percent of the fair market value of the conservation easement.

Applications should be submitted to the attention of Nina Bhattacharyya, USDA-NRCS, 2614 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL, 32606. NRCS accepts applications for FRPP funding on a continuous basis throughout the year, but to be considered for ranking and selection in fiscal year 2014, applications must be received at the Florida NRCS office by the Feb. 14 deadline. Applications received after this date will be held for a future ranking period.

For more information contact Nina Bhattacharyya, FRPP program manager, 352-338-9554.

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

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/