Discover the art and science of forest farming in this engaging session, where you will explore the cultivation of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) for food, medicine, and art. This session will highlight the pawpaw—North America's largest native fruit—covering its growth, care, and potential uses. Whether you are interested in harvesting for personal enjoyment or generating...
Join experienced forest farmer Ben Kitchen for a tour of his unique operation in a rich cove forest in Cherokee County, North Carolina. With decades of experience growing wild-simulated native herbs, Ben will guide participants through his multi-aged understory plantings. Learn about his stewardship approach and sustainable management practices for forest farming in the Southern...
Whether you are new to hunting or an experienced hunter wanting to sharpen your skills, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has class options and expert instructors to help you prepare for the season! Workshop capacities are limited, so register early. Please review each workshop’s summary when registering. NOTE: Attendee requirements noted below MUST be completed prior...
Join N.C. Wildlife Federation South Wake Conservationists Chapter for a webinar exploring how intentional planting design can support wildlife while meeting human needs. Presented by registered landscape architect Sara Donohoe, this webinar focuses on integrating ecological function into planting design through creative and practical strategies. With expertise in native and habitat-based planting design, Sara will...
The Habitat Summit aims to provide practical land management advice to biologists, foresters, land managers conservation professionals, and landowners. This event hosts nationally recognized speakers with top-notch presentations on emerging research and applicable land management techniques. The presenters come with a diversity of expertise covering a variety of topics in land management. The 2025 keynote...
Though Hurricane Helene imposed widescale destruction on the mountains of North Carolina, opportunities are available to make the most out of the devastation. Two options you can pursue are to generate firewood and sawtimber. This two-day technical workshop at the Hinton Center in Hayesville will cover best practices for processing storm-damaged timber into firewood and...
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, recovery occurs as opportunities are explored and future preparations from the experience are planned. This one-day workshop at the Asheville Botanical Gardens will cover best practices for processing storm-damaged timber into useful wood products. Experts will present key topics including post-storm timber recovery, wood extraction methods, sawmilling, drying, storage...
Forested wetlands exist in two main ways – those that contain still water, and those where waters flow through. And in some cases, a forest may experience both during a given year. In this presentation, John A. Gerwin, Research Scientist and Educator of Ornithology, will showcase the natural histories of some of the avian denizens...
Learn how to safely set-up and use all types of tree stands: ladder, lock-on, climber, free-standing, and associated climbing equipment and harnesses. We will also discuss alternatives to tree stands such as ground blinds and use of box stands. Class will include practical exercise to erect and take down a ladder stand and discussion on...
Join biologists from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and the N.C. Wildlife Federation in Mocksville to explore pollinator habitat and learn what native insects need as they prepare for the winter. Lunch will be provided. Topics include: Importance of pollinators to the ecosystem and our daily lives Pollinator life cycles and habitat needs How to...
