Forests for the Bay

Dangerous Plants of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed

We highlighted two types of edible plants you can forage for in our July and August episodes of Tree Talks. On the other side of the spectrum are dangerous and toxic plants to avoid. Here is a list of some of the most poisonous plants in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) You …

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Agroforestry and Native Understory Crops

Agroforestry is an exciting way to sustainably harvest food and herbs in your backyard without compromising your woodland. The concept of agroforestry has been around for decades, but is becoming increasingly popular due to its numerous environmental and economic benefits. Agroforestry is a science-based design framework of supplying food while integrating trees, shrubs, and ground …

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The FIDS are Alright?

If you work in the field of forestry, conservation and natural resources you tend to speak a language infused in acronyms. An acronym that seems to have broad appeal and interest is FIDS. FIDS, which translates to Forest Interior Dwelling (or Dependent) Species, is a term first derived by avian ecologists to classify bird species …

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Buckets of freshly cut live stakes are stored in the back of a car.

Live Staking: A Trusty Technique for Planting Trees and Shrubs on the Cheap

Live staking (or propagation by cutting) almost seems too good to be true. Cut a stem from certain species of trees and shrubs and drive it into the ground, and a new plant will grow there! This method, if executed correctly, has a high success rate, and can be a very affordable if not free …

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Forests for the Bats, Part IV: White-Nose Syndrome

In October, bats are everywhere. Images of them, at least. The mammals typically are hibernating by Halloween, tucked away in caves and deep rock crevices. Summertime is when you will see real bats around, but if you live in the northeast or mid-Atlantic, you have likely seen dramatically less bats foraging in the summer dusk …

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Ailanthus seedling growing through cracks in concrete in Lancaster, PA.

Tree-of-Heaven, a Devilish Invader

Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima): a tree that elicits curses and anger wherever it grows and is recognized. The non-native plant’s angelic name belies its destructive nature. It spreads prolifically by seeds and root sprouts, forming thick groves that completely dominate sunny areas within just a few years. Beneficial native plants are quickly outpaced, shaded out, and replaced …

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Red maple

The Rubrum Cunundrum

Over the vast many years that I have been interacting with our region’s forest practitioners and enthusiasts, I have observed that many of us harbor a profound and deep emotional relationship to particular species of trees. These emotions run the gamut from effusive adoration to downright animosity. Some species are almost unanimous in the passions …

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Nominate a Chesapeake Forest Champion

[two_fifth ][imageframe link=”https://www.flickr.com/photos/29388462@N06/23225422080/” ] To help celebrate International Year of Forests, the U.S. Forest Service and partners are launching a new annual contest to recognize forest champions throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Forests provide clean water and air, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, and a host of other benefits to people. With around 100 acres of …

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Forestry Course for Realtors

[imageframe link=”/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/house3-500×375.jpg” ] Private forestland plays a vital role in helping to maintain water quality and overall watershed health.The Alliance’s Forestry for the Bay program has developed and is offering a four hour professional course for Maryland realtors. In Maryland, and throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed, private forestland plays a vital role in helping to …

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Forestry Training for Real Estate Professionals

[one_full class=”acb-img-content-wrap” ]In Maryland, and the Chesapeake Bay watershed as a whole, private forestland plays a vital role in helping to maintain water quality and overall watershed health. During the past two decades there has been a rapid increase in the number of forest landowners in the region. Often the only person many new landowners …

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