Pennsylvania Forestry Association's Symposium Recap and a Look at Upcoming Winter Events

There were over 70 in attendance, including several Penn State students, public and private foresters, and, of course, a cross section of forest landowners.

Consulting forester Guy Dunkle started off with examples of unique silviculture, horse logging systems, and targeted product marketing, all focused on enhanced uneven-aged forest systems. Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) wildlife biologist Mario Giazzon presented a variety of web-based resources aimed at wildlife enhancement. Jeff Osborne, forest stewardship program associate with the James C. Finley Center for Private Forests at Penn State, led us through an interesting study of volunteerism, its impacts for Pennsylvania's natural resources, and opportunities for young and old alike to volunteer in Pennsylvania. Penn State Extension forestry educator Cat Pugh brought her usual high energy and enthusiasm as she focused our attention on the many health benefits of being connected to the forest. Finally, with hunting season upon us, Mike Powell, PGC deputy warden and Penn State Extension educator, brought us up to speed on how to engage with the PGC when dealing with hunting regulations, nuisance animals, and all things wildlife. We are so appreciative of the time and effort the speakers put forth to inform and teach. We all walked away having learned something special.

The annual membership meeting included a recap of the major activities for 2024 and a look at 2025 events and activities. These will be summarized in the 2024 Annual Summary and made available to members online early in 2025.

No symposium is complete without the recognition of outstanding members of our forestry community:

• George Kirik, Tree Farmer of the Year
• Robert Hobbes, Tree Farm Inspector of the Year
• Laura and Mike Jackson, Sandy Cochran Award for Excellence in Natural Resource Education
• Amy Shields, Mira Lloyd Dock Outstanding Woman Conservationist Award
• Susan L. Stout, Joseph T. Rothrock Award for Forest Conservation

How fortunate we are to have these outstanding individuals as mentors to our Pennsylvania forestry family.

PFA is looking forward to 2025. The year started off with the 2025 Farm Show in Harrisburg January 4–11. On March 1, we will hold our 40th Annual Conservation Banquet at the Ramada by Wyndham Hotel and Conference Center in State College, PA. Find out more about this and all of our 2025 activities at paforestry.org. We invite you to join us at an event this year; we’d love to meet you and learn about your forest story.

The leaves have fallen, gardens have been put to bed, we have seen the first touches of snow in the mountains, and our forests are settled into their dormant season. What a wonderfully reflective time of year. I wish you and all who are important in your life a New Year full of rejuvenating experiences in Penn’s Woods! Hug a tree for me!!

Please be safe and take care!

For more information about PFA, visit their website at paforestry.org or call 800-835-8065.

By Matt Sampson, Pennsylvania Forestry Association President