Southern Illinois Beginning Forest Landowner Course

The 2024-2025 Southern Illinois Beginning Forest Landowner Course will consist of four weekend programs (Friday-Saturday) plus a few additional virtual/in-person events.  Each weekend will include in-class presentation, hands-on practices, and field tours.  All weekends will start at the Dixon Springs Agricultural Center (354 State Highway 145N, Simpson IL) at 9am on the Friday.  Some portions of the course will require a short travel to other locations.

October 4-5:  Forest ecology and development, Intro to forest management, Tree identification, chainsaw safety, and Forest measurements
November 8-9:  Forest management plans, Silviculture, Conducting a timber harvest, Funding assistance programs, Managed forest tours, and Invasive species management
January 10-11:  Forest soils, Pruning, Winter tree identification, Forest diseases and pests, management forest tour
February 7-8:  Prescribed fire, Tree planting, Crop tree release, Tree planting tour

Lodging options are available at the Dixon Springs Ag Center for an additional fee for registrants that wish to stay on site during course weekends.