The University of Kentucky’s annual Forest Health Conference returns Feb. 6, bringing together forestry professionals, landowners and the community to learn about the latest in forest health and management developments.  

Organized by leaders of the Kentucky Forest Health Task Force, which includes UK, Kentucky Division of Forestry and the Office of the State Entomologist, the conference will highlight cutting-edge research, practical techniques and collaborative approaches to safeguarding Kentucky’s woodlands. 

“One of the most exciting aspects of the Forest Health Conference is the chance to connect diverse attendees who care about the future of our forests,” said Ellen Crocker, assistant professor of forest health extension in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources. “Whether you’re an experienced resource manager or simply own a small woodlot, we want to provide insights and tools you can use right away.” 

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from Kentucky State Forester Brandon Howard and forest health extension specialist Alexandra Blevins of the Kentucky Division of Forestry. They will outline the current state of the Commonwealth’s forests and discuss notable health developments observed over the past year. Conference sessions will also feature best practices in herbicide use, led by specialists from both in and out of state, along with strategies for safeguarding forest ecosystems from invasive species.  

Representatives from the American Chestnut Foundation will share progress on breeding disease-resistant chestnut trees, offering hope for reviving a once-iconic species devastated by blight. Additionally, representatives from Bartlett Tree Experts will explore soil decompaction technology and how these innovations can enhance root growth, nutrient uptake and overall tree health. 

“Bringing people together to tackle challenges like invasive plant management and the threat of forest pests is essential for keeping our woodlands thriving,” Crocker said. “We look forward to highlighting success stories, discussing management approaches and exploring forward-thinking solutions that can make a real impact both in and outside the state.” 

The conference will address invasive plant management from several angles, including research on controlling and regulating Callery pear trees.  

“The Callery pear may look beautiful when it blooms, but it poses a serious threat to our forests by outcompeting native species,” Crocker said. “We must work together as landowners, professionals and policymakers to control this, and other, invasive species before they lead to irreversible changes in our ecosystems.” 

Registration begins at 8 a.m. ET at the Longship Club in Kroger Stadium on the UK campus. Advanced registration is required, and lunch is included in the $50 registration fee.  

For more information and to register, visit https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/events/kentucky-forest-health-conference-2025. 

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Writer: Jordan Strickler, jstrickler@uky.edu            

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