Reneé Williams | Forestry and Natural Resources

Reneé Williams Episodes

From the Woods Today - What is a Forest Management Plan and Why I You Need One?

This week Dr. Lance Vickers, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, will be explaining to us exactly what a forest management plan is and why would you need one!

Also on tap... Dr. Ellen Crocker will present another informative segment about forest health and why it is so important!

From the Woods Today- Tree Planting Techniques and Methods

Come celebrate Arbor Day with us this week! Environmental Control Supervisor, Jason Hunt from the Kentucky Division of Forestry will be stopping by to talk to us about the best tree planting techniques and methods!

Also on tap... Forestry Extension's Forest Health Specialist, Dr. Ellen Crocker and KY Division of Forestry Forest Health Program Coordinator Alexandra Blevins are back for another forest health segment on how to treat your trees for emerald ash borer and hemlock wooly adelgid.

From the Woods Today - Invasive Pests and How You Can Help Slow the Spread

Dr. DJ McNeil, Assistant Professor of Wildlife Management, drops in this week for another Wings of Kentucky segment!

Also on tap... Carl Harper, Kentucky's Office of the State Entomologist visits to tell us about invasive pests and how we can help slow down the spread.

From the Woods Today - Native Kentucky Plants

In this episode of From the Woods Today, Garrard County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development Eric Comley takes us on a virtual walk through some of our common wildflowers and the hotspots to get out in the woods and see something spectacular. As spring drifts into summer, our landscape will continue to change.

Also on tap...Extension Forester Laurie Thomas discusses the characteristics of roughleaf dogwood, which is a small, flowering deciduous tree in the dogwood family. It can be used as an ornamental and is an important wildlife tree. ForestryWorks Program Coordinator also discusses a multi-state program that promotes forestry by providing forest industry-focused resources for Kentucky students, educators, and job seekers

From the Woods Today - Worst Tree Ever? Managing Callery Pear

In this episode of From the Woods Today, Dr. Dave Coyle, Associate Professor and State Extension Specialist at Clemson University, discussed the question springing up in everyone's heads as of late. Is Callery pear the worst tree ever? Tune in for the answer and management tips!

And... find out What's Bugging My Tree with Dr. Ellen Crocker, Forest Health Specialist, as we talk all about sapsuckers.

From the Woods Today - Invasive Species Special

This week on From the Woods Today it's all about invasives of every kind! Frannie Preston drops in to give us an overview of what exactly an invasive is and Dr. Ellen Crocker, Forest Health Specialist joins us for a segment about the top invasive plants that could be affecting our woods in Kentucky. Also on tap... a very special Wings of Kentucky with Dr. D.J. McNeil who talks about invasive birds.

From the Woods Today - What are Invasives?

From the Woods Today - Water 101 and Timber Trespass

From the Woods Today celebrates Water Week! During Water Week, March 22-30, we shed some light on the importance of water around the state and in our daily lives. Join us as Lee Moser, Extension Associate Senior, gives us a lesson all about water! Check out our Water Week events at: https://soilandwater.ca.uky.edu/WaterWeekEvents

Also on tap... Jason Hunt, Kentucky Division of Forestry Environmental Control Supervisor, stops by to give us a tutorial on how woodland owners can prevent timber theft and trespass in Kentucky. The landowner could reduce this occurrence as much as possible by taking steps to prevent issues. He is going to talk about the laws and give landowners information on what to do when planning a harvest.

From the Woods Today - How Weather Affects Wildlife

In this episode of From the Woods Today, Dr. D.J. McNeil and Dr. John Cox visit the show to discuss how extreme weather fluctuations can affect our wildlife. And... Chad Niman will be speaking about mass timber products. These are created by assembling smaller wood elements, like dimension lumber, veneers, or strands, and bonding them with adhesives, dowels, nails, or screws to form larger structural components.

From the Woods Today - Wildlife Special

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn that many of Kentucky's most charismatic birds are species that perch on branches, the ground, or the water, our tree-clinging birds, like woodpeckers and nuthatches, are some of the most commonly encountered when in our woods. Also on tap...Spring is almost here, and frogs have started calling from wetlands throughout Kentucky. We will learn how to identify our winter and early spring breeding frogs through their vocalizations.

From the Woods Today - Kentucky's Mixedwood Forests

In this episode of From the Woods Today, Dr. Lance Vickers explains how our mixedwood forests are often overlooked and an important part of Kentucky’s landscape—blending hardwoods and conifers to support wildlife, timber production, and ecosystem resilience. Yet, their value remains underappreciated. It’s time to recognize and manage these forests for a more sustainable future!

From the Woods Today - Owling Ids & Tips

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we learn that winter is one of the best times of year to get familiar with your local owls! Learn owling tips and tricks, including common species identification, learning what to look and listen for, and best practices while out looking for owls.

From the Woods Today - Being Firewise in Your Home

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore how wildfires in Eastern KY can threaten homes and why being Firewise is crucial for protecting properties and conserving firefighting resources. Plus, we celebrate World Wetlands Day with a special segment.

From the Woods Today - Kentucky's Maple Syrup Tradition

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we dive into the rich history of maple syrup production in Kentucky. We explore how the first Kentucky Maple Day in 2020 helped introduce locals to the state's growing maple syrup industry and how it has become an annual tradition.

From the Woods Today - Protecting Forested Watersheds

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore national and regional efforts aimed at protecting forests and source water. We review key resources that help partners implement initiatives focused on ensuring clean, high-quality drinking water across the Commonwealth. Additionally, we feature our Tree of the Week and Wings of Kentucky segments, highlighting local nature and wildlife.

From the Woods Today - Technology in Forestry

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we kick off the new year by exploring the latest technological innovations in forestry. Topics include advanced logging equipment, drones, renewable wood products, and cutting-edge manufacturing technologies. We also dive into invasive plant management and discuss the various uses of firewood.

From the Woods Today - Christmas Trees

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore the environmental impact of your Christmas tree choice, offering tips on how to make your holidays more sustainable. Plus, we share last-minute gift ideas for the forest enthusiasts in your life.

From the Woods Today - Avoiding Holiday "Hitchhikers"

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we talk about two pests that might try to catch a ride with viewers during their holiday visits with family and how to avoid them. Plus, we explore the holiday tradition of mistletoe and offer tips on what to do with your Christmas tree after the holidays.

From the Woods Today - 12 Days of Christmas Birds

In this episode of From the Woods Today, Dr. DJ McNeil uncovers the hidden bird-related meaning behind one of the most beloved Christmas songs. Plus, we take a moment to celebrate World Soil Day.

From the Woods Today - Thanksgiving Birds

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore the birds that grace our tables and discover the fascinating relatives they share. We also give thanks to Kentucky woodlands, their owners, and those who support them.

From the Woods Today - Conifers of KY

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we explore Kentucky's native conifers, providing helpful tips for identification. Plus, in our Pesky Plants segment, we discuss another invasive species taking root in the region and offer some native plant alternatives that can thrive in your garden.

From the Woods Today - Fall Bird Migration

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we dive into fall migratory birds, exploring their behavior and migration patterns. Plus, in our What's Bugging My Tree? segment, we take a closer look at oak bracket fungus and how it affects trees.

From the Woods Today - Creepy Things From the Forest: Nocturnal Insects

This episode of From the Woods Today is a Halloween spectacular filled with creepy crawlers and spine-chilling tales! Join entomologist, Dr. Larson, as we explore the mysterious world of nocturnal insects and their fascination with light. We’ll also dive into the ecological importance of bats and uncover why they’ve become Halloween’s favorite icon. Plus, Dr. Steve Price shares a spooky forest ghost story!

From the Woods Today - Reptile Awareness Day

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate National Reptile Awareness Day with Dr. Steve Price, Professor of Stream and Riparian Ecology. Learn all about reptiles and why they are so cool!

From the Woods Today - Identifying Kentucky's Trees

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate Tree Week by learning how to identify Kentucky's trees using basic leaf and tree characteristics. We also have a segment about National Forest Products Week, happening October 20-26, 2024.

From the Woods Today - History of Logging

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we celebrate National Logger Day by uncovering the captivating history of logging. We also announce an exciting new logging program that will benefit not only water quality, but the logging and wood industry as a whole.

From The Woods Today - Property Line Boundaries

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we talk about the importance of a landowner knowing where their property lines are located, marking the property lines, and notifying adjacent owners. We also have a segment about the Kentucky Maple Syrup Association (KMSA).

From The Woods Today - Fall Wildflowers

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we highlight some of Kentucky’s stunning fall wildflowers. We also discuss bacterial leaf scorch, its impact, and management tips.

From The Woods Today - Keeping Your Forest in the Family

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we delve into the importance of preserving your land for future generations and how to effectively share your vision and values with your family. We also have a segment about mushrooms and our monthly What's Bugging My Tree.

From The Woods Today - How Changes to Climate Affect Our Forests

In this episode of From the Woods Today, we examine how changes to climate are impacting our forests. We also delve into strategies for controlling invasive species, specifically bush honeysuckle.

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