Florida Land Steward News and Information

Friday, September 26, 2014

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 9/26/14

COGONGRASS TREATMENT COST-SHARE PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
Applications accepted through Feb. 27, 2015 to remove invasive plant

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Florida Forest Service is now accepting applications for the Cogongrass Treatment Cost-Share Program.

“Invasive cogongrass spreads quickly and aggressively and can cause long-term problems if left untreated,” said State Forester Jim Karels. “In addition to reducing the productivity and value of forests and rangelands, it can greatly increase the risk and severity of wildfire.”

Cogongrass is an invasive, non-native grass, which occurs in Florida and several other southeastern states. Cogongrass infestations negatively affect tree regeneration, growth and survival, as well as wildlife habitat, native plant diversity, forage quality and property values. They also increase the risk of wildfires and alter fire behavior.

The Cogongrass Treatment Cost-Share Program is offered for non-industrial private lands in all Florida counties. It provides reimbursement of 50 percent of the cost to treat Cogongrass infestations for two consecutive years.

Applicants who wish to conduct treatments in 2014 may apply from Sept. 22, 2014 through Oct. 3, 2014. Applicants who wish to conduct treatments in 2015 may apply from Oct. 6, 2014 through Feb. 27, 2015.

To learn more about this program and obtain an application form, contact a local Florida Forest Service office or visit http://www.FloridaForestService.com. All qualifying applications will be evaluated and ranked for approval. This program is supported through a grant from the U.S. Forest Service.

For more information about cogongrass and management see http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wg202

For more information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit http://www.FreshFromFlorida.com.

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY INCENTIVES PROGRAM HELPS FARMERS, RANCHERS CONSERVE NATURAL RESOURCES
Application deadline for Environmental Quality Incentive Program Nov. 21

Florida farmers and ranchers can apply until Nov. 21 for financial assistance in fiscal year 2015 through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to improve soil, water, air, plants, animals and related resources.

Through EQIP, the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) develops contracts with agricultural producers to help plan and implement conservation practices that address natural resource concerns. Eligible land includes cropland, rangeland, pastureland, private non-industrial forestland and other farm or ranch lands. The application process for conservation programs is continuous, but funding selections are typically made once a year.

Begin by visiting your local NRCS field office and requesting help developing a conservation plan. Our experts provide this free service to help you use your natural resources more efficiently. To learn about technical and financial assistance available from NRCS, go to Getting Started with NRCS.

CATHY HARDIN, 2014 FLORIDA OUTSTANDING TREE FARM INSPECTOR
Cathy Hardin (Escambia County Forester, Florida Forest Service) has been selected as the 2014 Florida Tree Farm Inspector of the Year. If asked about the favorite part of work as a forester, Cathy will tell you it all stems from helping forest landowners meet their personal goals. Sometimes the goal is attaining Tree Farm certification; other times it is simply learning more about their “bit of heaven." Whatever the goal, Cathy gets much satisfaction from helping a landowner get there! Cathy will be recognized during the November 14 tour of the Woodward Family Tree Farm in Gadsden County.

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.

ONGOING SERVICES, INITIATIVES, PROGRAMS:
______________________________________________________________________

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

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.

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

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/

Friday, August 29, 2014

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 8/29/14

CATTLE OPERATIONS: MAKE THE MOST OF HIGH CATTLE PRICES
Cattle have been selling for record high prices this summer. Doug Mayo, UF/IFAS Jackson County Extension Director, has a great article about why the prices are so hight and how producers can make the most of these excellent prices in this Growing Alabama agriculture outreach piece: http://growingalabama.com/features/2014/08/how-make-most-high-cattle-prices/

GROWING FOR PROFIT SERIES BEGINNING IN SEPTEMBER
This Fast Track series focuses on the business of farming and will feature a wide variety of topics. The goal of this series is to provide agricultural producers of all sizes, industries and stages of growth the tools to succeed at the business of farming. More details here: http://www.floridasmallfarms.org/

NON-TIMBER FOREST PRODUCTS FALL 2014 WEBINAR SERIES
Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) refers to products other than timber that are harvested from woodlands. NTFPs include plants, parts of plants, fungi, moss, lichen, herbs, vines, shrubs, parts of trees, and other biological material that are either personally used or sold for their commercial value. We eat NTFPs and use them for medicine. We also use them to make decorations and create specialty products. Not only are many NTFPs marketable, they also are critical for healthy woodland ecosystems. Sustainable harvesting and cultivation of NTFPs through forest farming practices can complement overall stewardship of working forests. This webinar series highlights the remarkable and diverse world of non-timber forest products, ranging from an overview of the abundance and diversity of NTFPs to forest farming practices focused on particular marketable products. Details and registration on the Tree Farm national calendar: https://www.treefarmsystem.org/national-calendar

FALL 2014 SFE / LANDFIRE WEBINAR SERIES
This fall the Southern Fire Exchange has partnered with LANDFIRE to present a three part webinar series on LANDFIRE data applications in the South. Register for the first free webinar "LANDFIRE 101" on September 4th from 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET. Webinar participants will learn the basics of LANDFIRE data use and access with examples from the southeastern U.S. LANDFIRE 101 participants are eligible for 1-hour SAF CFE credit. Additional information can be found on the LANDFIRE Webinar Series page.

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.

ONGOING SERVICES, INITIATIVES, PROGRAMS:
______________________________________________________________________

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

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.

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

Friday, August 15, 2014

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 8/15/14

NON-TIMBER FOREST PRODUCTS FALL 2014 WEBINAR SERIES
Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) refers to products other than timber that are harvested from woodlands. NTFPs include plants, parts of plants, fungi, moss, lichen, herbs, vines, shrubs, parts of trees, and other biological material that are either personally used or sold for their commercial value. We eat NTFPs and use them for medicine. We also use them to make decorations and create specialty products. Not only are many NTFPs marketable, they also are critical for healthy woodland ecosystems. Sustainable harvesting and cultivation of NTFPs through forest farming practices can complement overall stewardship of working forests. This webinar series highlights the remarkable and diverse world of non-timber forest products, ranging from an overview of the abundance and diversity of NTFPs to forest farming practices focused on particular marketable products. Details and registration on the Tree Farm national calendar:
https://www.treefarmsystem.org/national-calendar

WHOLE FARM INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT VIRTUAL FIELD DAY
If you are interested in learning how to manage pests using integrated pest management (IPM) strategies on a whole farm or whole landscape level, a team of University of Florida IFAS Extension faculty has developed a series of video modules just for you. These modules were developed at the UF/IFAS Suwannee Valley Agricultural Extension Center near Live Oak, FL where the 300 acre farm has been transformed into a Living IPM Laboratory putting into real life practices these IPM strategies. The farm is now implementing several innovative IPM strategies to manage pests and has reduced pesticide use by more than 50%. When you watch these short video modules, you will learn how to implement strategies such as using trap crops and insect monitoring traps; creating plant habitat for beneficial insects; using birds, bats and owls as pest predators; enhancing the landscape for native pollinators; and scouting to best target management strategies.

The direct link to the IPM Whole Farm Modules is http://vfd.ifas.ufl.edu/whole-farm-ipm.shtml.
This ongoing project is supported with funding from University of Florida IFAS, USDA NIFA Extension IPM Program, Southern Region IPM Center, and Southern Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SSARE) Program, and the Suwannee Conservation District.

More video modules are now available on the UF IFAS Virtual Field Day web site at: http://vfd.ifas.ufl.edu.

FALL 2014 SFE / LANDFIRE WEBINAR SERIES
This fall the Southern Fire Exchange has partnered with LANDFIRE to present a three part webinar series on LANDFIRE data applications in the South. Register for the first free webinar "LANDFIRE 101" on September 4th from 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET. Webinar participants will learn the basics of LANDFIRE data use and access with examples from the southeastern U.S. LANDFIRE 101 participants are eligible for 1-hour SAF CFE credit. Additional information can be found on the LANDFIRE Webinar Series page.

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.

ONGOING SERVICES, INITIATIVES, PROGRAMS:
______________________________________________________________________

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

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.

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

Friday, August 1, 2014

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 8/1/14

FLORIDA FOREST SERVICE INVITES CITIZENS TO PROVIDE INPUT ON IMPORTANT FOREST PROTECTION PROGRAM
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Florida Forest Service is updating portions of the state’s Forest Action Plan related to the USDA Forest Legacy Program and is inviting citizens and stakeholders to get involved. The Florida Forest Service’s participation in the Forest Legacy Program compliments its Rural and Family Lands Protection Program by helping to protect and conserve important forest areas through voluntary conservation easements and fee simple purchases.

“The protection and conservation of forests in Florida is vital,” said Jim Karels, State Forester. “Florida’s forests provide countless benefits including forest products, job opportunities, recreational opportunities, and the protection of water quality and wildlife habitat.”

Currently, the Florida Forest Service is partnering with Florida State University’s Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) to update and identify priority forestlands that qualify as Forest Legacy areas eligible for federal funding from the Forest Legacy Program.

In an effort to secure broad support for the Forest Legacy Program in Florida and to seek further input from citizens and stakeholders on potential criteria and focus areas, the Florida Forest Service and FNAI will hold three Public Participation Workshops around the state. Below are the Forest Legacy workshop details:

KISSIMMEE, FL
Tuesday, August 5, 2014, 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm (EST): Osceola County Extension Office, Osceola Heritage Park, 1921 Kissimmee Valley Lane, Kissimmee FL 34744
TALLAHASSEE, FL
Thursday, August 7, 2014, 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm (EST): Eyster Auditorium, 3125 Conner Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32311
GAINESVILLE, FL
Thursday, August 12, 2014, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (EST): 1911 Southwest 34 Street, Gainesville, FL 32608

Landowner participation in the program, including the sale of lands and interests in lands, is entirely voluntary. More information about the Forest Legacy Program here, or call the Forest Legacy Program Coordinator at (850) 681-5816.

The Florida Forest Service manages more than one million acres of public forest land while protecting 26 million acres of homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire. For more information about sustainable forestry practices and forest conservation efforts in Florida, visit www.FloridaForestService.com.

JULY / AUGUST ISSUE OF FIRE LINES NOW AVAILABLE
Fire Lines is a joint newsletter for the Southern Fire Exchange and the Southeastern Section of the Association for Fire Ecology. This newsletter is published bimonthly to briefly summarize recent fire-related publications, projects, activities, and news. Current and back issues here.

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.

ONGOING SERVICES, INITIATIVES, PROGRAMS:
______________________________________________________________________

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

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.

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

Thursday, July 24, 2014

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 7/24/14

ADAMS RANCH RECEIVES AUDUBON FLORIDA'S SUSTAINABLE RANCHER AWARD
A Ft. Pierce-based family farm operation that has maintained outstanding wildlife habitats and wetlands for decades is the recipient of a new statewide honor from Audubon Florida. The organization presented the Adams Ranch with its 2014 Sustainable Rancher award at the Florida Cattlemen’s Association’s Convention in June.

The ranch has previously earned much recognition for superior natural resource management, including the Agricultural Environmental Leadership Award from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Landowner of the Year Award. Adams family members are leading advocates for the use of conservation easements as tools for preserving farms and ranches in Florida.

Under the leadership of Bud Adams Sr., the ranch has developed into a one of the top cow-calf producers in the nation. It is also a stellar example of the successful conservation of land and water resources achieved by farm owners throughout the state. They practice conservation as part of their daily lives and work.

“Bud Adams and his family were protecting wetlands and wildlife long before any regulations or government programs came about,” said Charles Lee, Audubon Florida’s director of advocacy. “They have done it because they truly believe in conservation.”

ONGOING SERVICES, INITIATIVES, PROGRAMS:
______________________________________________________________________

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

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.

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

Friday, July 11, 2014

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 7/11/14

PENINSULAR FLORIDA LANDSCAPE CONSERVATION COOPERATIVE UPDATE
The PFLCC had a very productive 2013 and 2014. For a summary of accomplishments, projects supported, science tools developed, and current projects see the first edition of their Regular Newsletter.

SOUTHERN PINE BEETLE ASSISTANCE
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Florida Forest Service is now accepting applications for the Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program. The sign-up period will run from June 6 through July 18 and is available for non-industrial private forest landowners.

The program provides incentive payments for the following:
·         Conducting a first pulpwood thinning.
·         Conducting prescribed burning operations.
·         Conducting mechanical underbrush treatments.
·         Planting longleaf or slash pine.

To learn more about this program and obtain an application form, contact a local Florida Forest Service office or visit www.freshfromflorida.com/SouthernPineBeetle/Prevention

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS TO INSTALL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS
Apply by July 18, 2014 for Gulf of Mexico Initiative
Farmers and ranchers in the Escambia River or Middle Suwannee River Area watersheds may be eligible for financial assistance to reduce soil erosion, improve water quality and develop wildlife habitat on cropland, pastureland and forestland. The deadline is July 18 to sign up for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Gulf of Mexico Initiative.

In Florida, the initiative will make available more than $1.4 million in Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) financial assistance funds in those two priority watersheds during fiscal year 2014.

“This effort to improve the health of the Gulf Coast region will benefit Florida citizens by producing cleaner water, more abundant wildlife and healthier fisheries,” said Russell Morgan, Florida state conservationist.

The priority watersheds include the Middle Suwannee River area in parts of Suwannee and Lafayette counties and the Escambia River in parts of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Landowners can view maps to see if their property lies within one of the announced watersheds.
Practices include:

Installing grade-control structures to stabilize eroding gullies
Implementing precision agriculture to reduce chemical application overlap and protect sensitive environmental areas
Adopting residue and tillage management, cover crops and conservation crop rotations to reduce sheet and rill erosion and improve soil organic matter, which results in cleaner runoff and improved water quality
Planting grass and trees to stabilize eroding areas
Installing cross-fences and watering facilities to facilitate grazing distribution
Controlling cattle access to streams to improve water quality and stream bank stability
Planting and managing native plant species to improve wildlife habitat and assist with restoration of a multitude of declining species
Promoting energy conservation by eliminating the need for annual mechanical removal of sediment from split ditches
Implementing grazing management
Installing heavy-use area protection pads

The initiative helps agricultural producers in Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas improve water quality and ensure sustainable production of food and fiber. It was developed by NRCS and conservation partners in response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and President Obama's call to restore the waters, shores and wildlife populations along the Gulf Coast. This effort incorporates what the public and communities have requested through their input into the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Task Force Strategy to restore the Gulf Coast.
For more information about signing up for the initiative, contact your local NRCS office.

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.

ONGOING SERVICES, INITIATIVES, PROGRAMS:
______________________________________________________________________

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

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.

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

Friday, June 27, 2014

FLORIDA LAND STEWARD UPDATE 6/27/14

SOUTHERN PINE BEETLE ASSISTANCE
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Florida Forest Service is now accepting applications for the Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program. The sign-up period will run from June 6 through July 18 and is available for non-industrial private forest landowners.

The program provides incentive payments for the following:
·         Conducting a first pulpwood thinning.
·         Conducting prescribed burning operations.
·         Conducting mechanical underbrush treatments.
·         Planting longleaf or slash pine.

To learn more about this program and obtain an application form, contact a local Florida Forest Service office or visit www.freshfromflorida.com/SouthernPineBeetle/Prevention

2014 SOUTHERN PINE BEETLE FORECAST
Read the full report here.

WILDFIRE RISK TOOL
To help prevent or mitigate the threat of wildfire, The Southern Group of State Foresters has unveiled a new online tool designed to help determine the risk of wildfire around homes or businesses. The Southern Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal (SouthWRAP) provides the potential wildfire intensity at any location in the state, based on landscape, previous wildfire history, weather conditions and terrain. SouthWRAP also offers resources that can help manage the identified threats and reduce wildfire risk. Check it out: http://www.southernwildfirerisk.com/

NEW SOUTHERN FIRE EXCHANGE FACT SHEET: "VEGETATION TREATMENT OPTIONS AND MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES: A CASE STUDY IN LONGLEAF PINE"
The latest SFE Fact Sheet (.pdf) summarizes some exciting research in South Carolina that assessed the results of granular herbicide, mowing, and prescribed fire on a number of potential management objectives in longleaf pine sandhill. The two page fact sheet takes about ten minutes to read and includes three direct management implications and a table showing some specific results. Check out other SFE Fact Sheets.

The Southern Fire Exchange (SFE) is a regional fire science delivery program, representing the southeastern United States. The SFE is a member of the national network of knowledge exchange consortia, funded by the Joint Fire Science Program. The Joint Fire Science Program funds scientific research on wildland fires and distributes results to help policymakers, fire managers, and practitioners make sound decisions.

2014 A VERY GOOD SEED YEAR FOR LONGLEAF - STILL TIME TO PREPARE YOUR SITE FOR SEED FALL
According to the US Forest Service's 2014-2015 Longleaf Pine Cone Prospectus, the regional cone crop, based on conelet counts, is very good for 2014, at 97.8 cones per tree. The natural variation typically seen throughout the longleaf pine range is evident in this year’s data. For landowners and managers interested in natural regeneration of longleaf pine there’s still time to get some late summer burning, chopping, herbicide done in preparation for some good seed-fall. See the full report here.

UF/IFAS Extension publication about Longleaf Pine Regeneration: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fr064

LONGLEAF PINE LANDOWNER INCENTIVE PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
Applications from Private Forest Landowners Will Be Accepted May 19-June 27
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' Florida Forest Service is now accepting applications for the Longleaf Pine Landowner Incentive Program. The sign-up period will run from May 19-June 27 and is available for non-industrial private forest landowners.
“Longleaf pine forests once covered a vast range from Texas to Virginia but that has been greatly reduced,” said Commissioner Putnam. “With the help of private landowners across Florida, we can work together to restore the environmental benefits and natural beauty that come with this important natural resource.”

Longleaf pine forests are highly valued for their resistance to damage by insects, disease, wildfire and storms. They are also favored for their yield of high-quality wood products, biological diversity and scenic beauty. The goal of this program is to increase the acreage of healthy Longleaf pine ecosystems in Florida by helping non-industrial private forest landowners make the long-term investment required to establish and maintain this valuable ecosystem.

The Longleaf Pine Landowner Incentive Program is offered for private lands in Florida counties located west of the Apalachicola River and counties adjacent to the Ocala or Osceola National Forests. (See a map of eligible counties.) The program provides incentive payments for the following:

Improving timber stand
Controlling invasive species
Conducting prescribed burning operations
Planting Longleaf pine
Establishing native plant understory
Conducting mechanical underbrush treatments

To obtain an application form, contact a local Florida Forest Service office or visit www.FreshFromFlorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Florida-Forest-Service. All qualifying applications will be evaluated and ranked for funding approval. This program is supported through a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation with funding from the Southern Company, the U.S. Forest Service, The Nature Conservancy, Natural Resources Conservation Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS TO INSTALL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS
Apply by July 18, 2014 for Gulf of Mexico Initiative
Farmers and ranchers in the Escambia River or Middle Suwannee River Area watersheds may be eligible for financial assistance to reduce soil erosion, improve water quality and develop wildlife habitat on cropland, pastureland and forestland. The deadline is July 18 to sign up for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Gulf of Mexico Initiative.

In Florida, the initiative will make available more than $1.4 million in Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) financial assistance funds in those two priority watersheds during fiscal year 2014.

“This effort to improve the health of the Gulf Coast region will benefit Florida citizens by producing cleaner water, more abundant wildlife and healthier fisheries,” said Russell Morgan, Florida state conservationist.

The priority watersheds include the Middle Suwannee River area in parts of Suwannee and Lafayette counties and the Escambia River in parts of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Landowners can view maps to see if their property lies within one of the announced watersheds.
Practices include:

Installing grade-control structures to stabilize eroding gullies
Implementing precision agriculture to reduce chemical application overlap and protect sensitive environmental areas
Adopting residue and tillage management, cover crops and conservation crop rotations to reduce sheet and rill erosion and improve soil organic matter, which results in cleaner runoff and improved water quality
Planting grass and trees to stabilize eroding areas
Installing cross-fences and watering facilities to facilitate grazing distribution
Controlling cattle access to streams to improve water quality and stream bank stability
Planting and managing native plant species to improve wildlife habitat and assist with restoration of a multitude of declining species
Promoting energy conservation by eliminating the need for annual mechanical removal of sediment from split ditches
Implementing grazing management
Installing heavy-use area protection pads

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