No Winter Lasts Forever
No Winter Lasts Forever
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources logo
Forest Focus
The Bureau of Forestry Newsletter
Winter 2024
Snow on branch of Eastern Hemlock

No Winter Lasts Forever - Hal Borland

Welcome to the DCNR Bureau of Forestry’s winter 2024 edition of Forest Focus! In this issue, readers will learn about winter work happening at the nursery and a fresh start for the agroforestry peer network in Pennsylvania.
Other articles include a look at biological controls of invasive plants, the bureau's investment in winter recreation, an update on the Bat Habitat Conservation Plan, and other interesting information.
If you haven't already, be sure to sign up to continue receiving Forest Focus!

From the Pinchot Desk

Seth Cassell, State Forester
As I write this on the last day of February, I’m greatly looking forward to spring and the celebrations to come around planting trees and taking care of our environment for people and communities.
I’d like to take a moment to welcome our new Chief of Staff and Assistant Director for Forest Planning and Administration, Arianne Proctor. Arianne comes to her new role after serving as chief of the Minerals Division for the past three years, and prior to that a section chief for eleven years.
Arianne has proven a staunch advocate for the bureau and its mission while also establishing herself as a respected leader. She sets the standard for employee engagement, development and the empowerment of teams.
We are grateful to have Arianne join our senior leadership team!
I hope to see you soon out in the forest or in our communities, planting trees.
The Clipper, Mira Lloyd Dock Resource Conservation Center

Winter at the Nursery

Late in autumn, the seeds are sown. The beds are covered and tucked in for a long winter sleep. The leaves fall from the trees, the geese and the swallows fly south, and suddenly things are quiet.
Dormancy becomes the norm for the trees but not for the staff at the nursery.
Learn More
Early Detection Rapid Response - Invasive & Non-native Species (U.S. National Park Service)

Biological Controls of Invasive Plants

Invasive plants have many negative impacts on Pennsylvania, from decreasing habitat space for our native plants to impacting timber regeneration and carbon sequestration, and in the case of some, even impacting human health.
It’s important to prevent the introduction of invasive plants to new areas, and eradicate small novel infestations quickly. 
Learn More
Dog sled recreation in state forests

Investing in Winter Recreation

With the changing of seasons come new opportunities to explore and appreciate Pennsylvania’s state forests. Spending time outdoors in winter can provide a new perspective on forests and many health benefits.
Investments by staff and volunteers are needed to make it happen.
Learn More
Forestry in Brief
Access the following links for the latest updates from the Bureau of Forestry.
Bat

The Research Report: Scientific Studies Inform Best Practices


Scientific research helps the Bureau of Forestry answer questions and helps guide stewardship of the Commonwealth's trees, forests, and native wild plants.  
This Research Report provides an update on the implementation of the Bat Habitat Conservation Plan.
Learn More
Pa Agroforestry

Agroforestry Peer Network Starting in Pennsylvania


Agroforestry refers to a suite of practices that work with trees to solve problems and provide co-benefits on farms, forests, and in urban and suburban contexts.
In DCNR’s past, part of how agroforestry activities were supported was by convening a PA Agroforestry Brain Trust to provide structure and guidance to our agroforestry program practices.
We want to renew that network in a new and expanded, more accessible format: a PA Agroforestry Peer Network.
Learn More
Hannah Huber, Conservation Mycologist, PA Natural Heritage Program

Forces of Nature

Employee Spotlight

Feature
Meet Hannah Huber, Conservation Mycologist! 
This Employee Spotlight provides space to recognize our conservation colleagues and the ongoing hard work that happens within the Bureau of Forestry everyday.
Dedication and committment to achieving our mission make us all forces of nature!
Learn More
Forest Friday Logo

The Best of Forest Fridays!


Each Friday, the Bureau of Forestry provides a unique and informative article on a forest related topic.
You will find the best Forest Fridays from the previous quarter, highlighted here.
If you would like to receive the weekly Forest Fridays email, please send us an email.
Learn More
Website
www.dcnr.pa.gov 
 Email
PaForester@pa.gov
 Phone Number
717-787-2703       
Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry | PO Box 8552 | Harrisburg, PA 17105-8552
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