September 26, 2024 11:47 am
Published by Corydon Swift-Turner
*This is the web version of our first “The Understory” newsletter which was mailed out on Sept. 26. Get future editions of The Understory delivered to your inbox here. Welcome to “The Understory!” The Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) is launching this newsletter to connect with forest landowners and all who love forests. Here we’ll share news, services, assistance programs and more. You’re receiving this newsletter because you previously signed... Read More
September 24, 2024 9:21 am
Published by Corydon Swift-Turner
Staunton Generation NEXT Workshop Oct. 26 If you own woodland, you have a legacy worth passing on. Legacy planning can seem daunting, so we’ve partnered with Virginia Cooperative Extension to give you a confident start. Join us for our next Generation NEXT workshop in Staunton Oct. 26 to gain advice from law and financial experts, tips and insights from fellow landowners, and a clear path forward. Estate planning is a... Read More
September 23, 2024 4:20 pm
Published by Corydon Swift-Turner
This grass may look harmless, but it wants to use you and your pets for a free ride. The seeds of wavyleaf grass (Oplismenus undulatifolius) stick to everything, easily spreading this invasive across Virginia’s forests, replacing our native plants and wildflowers. Wavyleaf grass thrives in shaded forest understories, especially along forest trails looking for a free ride. Wavyleaf grass produces seeds August – November. Here’s what you can do to prevent... Read More
September 18, 2024 4:30 pm
Published by Corydon Swift-Turner
This time of year there are several berry-producing shrubs in Virginia. Let’s compare two you’re likely to see: the native spicebush (Lindera benzoin) and invasive amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii). Spicebush is hardy to various soil conditions, produces pollinator-friendly yellow blooms in spring and golden fall foliage, hosts the stunning spicebush swallowtail butterfly, and its berries are a favorite of many songbirds. Amur honeysuckle is an imported non-native and has become... Read More
June 21, 2024 2:13 pm
Published by Corydon Swift-Turner
The National Weather Service has forecast an excessive heat event for most of the Mid-Atlantic, particularly the Appalachian Mountains. Much of the region will be exposed to excessive heat and high humidity potentially through next week. If you must conduct critical fieldwork during a heat warning or watch, consider the following tips from the USDA Forest Service: Limit your exposure to the heat by working at times of day when... Read More
