2025 Mini College Session Descriptions and Schedule 

 

Morning Sessions (9:30 to 10:30 am & 10:50 to 11:50 am)  

 

Conservation Easements                                                                                                                                                    

Derek Goble, Conservation Project Manager of Five Valleys Land Trust  

This course will cover the fundamentals of conservation easements, how they can be applied to forested properties, and the financial and tax incentives associated with them. We'll explore available funding mechanisms, examine the current landscape of conservation easements in Western Montana, and discuss the historical context behind their creation. Additionally, we'll guide you through the process, timelines, and long-term stewardship of private land under a conservation easement. 

 

Invasive Weed & Plant Management                                                                                                                                

Bryce Christiaens & Steffany Rogge, Missoula County Weed District  

Gain a better understanding of why invasive weeds become established and persist by learning about ecological-based invasive plant management. The Missoula County Weed District will guide participants through establishing goals for their property while considering existing vegetation, land use, and resource availability. Invasive plant management is not all-encompassing and can differ from site to site; that said, participants are encouraged to share their successes, trials, and even disappointments during this program. They are learning through others’ experiences.  

 

Insect and Disease Update 2024-2025                                                                                                                                 

Amy Gannon, Forest Pest Management Program, Montana DNRC Forestry Division   

The Montana DNRC monitors and troubleshoots tree pests across the state. Amy will provide an update about what different pests are on the increase or decrease, how to identify their damage and management strategies for dealing with them. Feel free to bring samples along for her to diagnose if you have something impacting your trees. 

 

A Tree Physiology Guide for Climate Smart Forestry                                                                                                 

Peter Kolb, Ph.D. - MSU Extension Forestry Specialist 

Future climate models indicate that greater fluctuations in temperature, humidity and storms are likely in our future.  This session will cover the basics of tree physiology and how trees respond and adapt to changes in their environment from a biological and genetic perspective.  Landowners will be offered some basic knowledge and tips for what to look for in local climatic changes and what to select to improve climate resilience in forests. 

 

Only Offered at 9:30 to 10:30 am  

Montana Best Management Practices (BMPs) What Do They Mean To Me?                                                         

Beth Dodson, Ph.D. - Professor of Forest Operations, College of Forestry at the University of Montana 

If you manage a forest, woodlot, or just the trees along your creek, this class will guide you on the DO’s and DON’Ts of modern forest management practices. There are several issues to consider once you decide to cut trees as part of your management plan. BMPs also address proper forest road constructions, skidding techniques, erosion control, and drainage standards. 

 

Only Offered at 10:50 to 11:50 am 

What have we learned from BMP field reviews?                                                                                                           

Beth Dodson, Ph.D. - Professor of Forest Operations, College of Forestry at the University of Montana 

Every two years since 1990, interdisciplinary teams across Montana evaluate the application of BMPs and their effectiveness in protecting soil and water resources.  This session will look at lessons learned from 34 years of field reviews as well as those areas where improvement is still needed. 

Lunch Break 12:00 to 1:10 pm  

Lunch Speaker   

Logging in the deep snow of Lolo Pass, by Scott Kuehn (Montana forester 1978-2022)  

Afternoon Sessions (1:30 to 2:30 pm & 2:50 to 3:50 pm)  

 

Hazardous Fuels Project Design and Implementation                                                                                                

Allen Chrisman, retired Fire Management Officer, U.S. Forest Service  

This class will examine typical forest structures with fuel accumulations; discuss the need for and methods for reducing the risk associated with these fuels and will provide examples of how to implement projects that reduce the risk of severe wildfire, as well as provide for forest health, wildlife habitat, and trees that are free to grow.    

 

Climate and Water Monitoring for Montana                                                                                                                     

Dr. Kelsey Jencso, Montana State Climatologist, Dr. Zachary Hoylman, Assistant State Climatologist, and Dr. Kyle Bocinsky, Director of Climate Extension Montana Climate Office 

Join the Montana Climate Office for a mini-workshop highlighting key tools for monitoring climate and water resources in Montana. Throughout the workshop, participants will explore several practical tools, including the Montana Mesonet dashboard, drought monitoring for the Columbia and Upper Missouri River basins, and updated climate projections in the Montana Climate Assessment. These tools are specifically designed to collect and analyze data related to climate patterns, precipitation, snowpack dynamics, and hydrological changes across different regions of Montana. Attendees will gain insights into how these tools generate valuable data, aiding stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers in making informed decisions regarding water resource management, drought preparedness, agriculture, and ecological conservation in Montana. 

 

Forest Thinning Guidelines                                                                                                                                                   

John Goodburn, Ph.D. - Associate Professor of Silviculture, W.A. Franke College of Forestry at the University of Montana  

Thinning trees to appropriate spacing to reduce wildfire hazards and increase tree growth and overall forest resilience seems like a simple task. However, thinning guidelines will vary based on tree species, stand conditions, and landowner objectives. John will present thinning recommendations for different situations and outcomes based on decades of experience.  He can also answer and help you figure out what will work best for your situation - so come with questions!  

 

Timber Selling in Montana                                                                                                                                                   

Holly McKenize, Service Forester, Montana DNRC Kalispell Unit   

Forestland is an asset for family recreation and wildlife habitat…. but many of us also have marketable forest products that warrant careful consideration as we move forward with thinning treatments to address both wildfire and tree health.  In this session, we will look at the different objectives a landowner might have and discuss the balanced decisions for short-term and long-term management of the wood fiber growing on your forestland.  How long does it take to derive income from forest products? What are some available markets in Montana and how do we get our products there?  Am I better off doing my own logging or do I need a contractor with the proper equipment to help me meet all my objectives?  How do I time the market for the highest return? Should I leave all my trees for my heirs to log in case they need income after I’m gone?  These are common questions, and the answers may vary depending on objectives.    

 

Only Offered at 1:30 to 2:30 pm 

Montana Legislative Issues Forest Landowners Should Know About                                                                     

Montana Forest Owners Association Board of Directors                                                                         

Update of current legislative issues forest landowners should be aware of.  Q and A forthe basic laws, taxes, legislative initiatives, and rules that affect forest landowners across the state of Montana, and issues that landowners should be aware of that currently affect their property rights, which might affect them more in the future. 

 

Only Offered at2:50 to 3:50pm 

How to Acquire Plant Material from the Montana Conservation Seedling Nursery                                             

Ashley Mattson, Nursery Operations & Native Seed Program Manager, Montana Conservation Seedling Nursery, Montana DNRC Missoula  

This presentation highlights MCSN's comprehensive approach to producing plant materials, from seed collection and banking to seedling and seed production. Ashley will discuss the nursery’s processes for creating high-quality native seedlings tailored to Montana’s diverse landscapes. Whether you're engaged in habitat restoration, managing public land, or interested in obtaining seedlings for your property, this session offers valuable insights into how you can utilize seedlings and seed produced by the MCSN.