Forest Health

Many landowners in the Mid-Atlantic region are learning that prescribed fires can help them achieve their management goals for their property. The Maryland Prescribed Fire Council aims to protect, promote, and expand the safe and responsible use of prescribed fire in Maryland.

In the News and Notes roundup for this issue: Baltimore City is examining white-tailed deer overpopulation within its parklands; a new report assesses the impact of the forestry industry on Maryland's economy; the US Forest Service and its partners has issued its annual Tax Tips For Forest Landowners guide; and new research reveals a potential native foe of EAB.

The humble common hackberry tree (Celtis occidentalis), sometimes referred to as a “nettletree” or “beaverwood,” has some fascinating characteristics if you are willing to look past its warty bark exterior. Given their ability to withstand harsh conditions and their benefits to native wildlife, hackberry represents a great choice for an urban tree.

New from MassWoods at the University of Massachusetts Amherst: "Reforestation Guide: Tree Planting to Enrich, Restore, and Adapt Northern Forests"

The Japanese angelica tree was introduced to the United States in 1830 as an ornamental plant and likely naturalized shortly after its introduction; however, its invasive tendencies in the Mid-Atlantic states were only first observed in the early 2000s.

Registration is now open for the Spring 2026 session of “The Woods in Your Backyard” online course. Our course is designed primarily for small-acreage property owners who want to learn how to care for or expand existing woodlands, or to convert lawn space to woodlands.

In this issue: Read about the benefits of using phenology in your woodlands, and how you can join us for our online course, "The Woods in Your Backyard." Learn about a new group seeking to expand the knowledge and practice of prescribed fire in Maryland. Our "Native Trees of Maryland" looks at the Common Hackberry, and "Invasives in Your Woodlands" looks at the Japanese Angelica Tree. And don't forget the events calendar and the Brain Tickler challenge.

Phenology links what you see on the ground to patterns in weather and climate, turning casual observation into a powerful management tool.

In this issue: Read about the transitions in woodlands from autumn to winter, and the benefits of leaving leaves where they fall. There's also news about a new milestone for the Healthy Forests Healthy Waters program. Our "Native Trees of Maryland" looks at the Dwarf Chinquapin Oak, and "Invasives in Your Woodlands" looks at the Goldenrain Tree. And don't forget the events calendar and the Brain Tickler challenge.

Chosen tree management, previously known as "crop tree management," is a proactive method for encouraging selected trees in your woodland.