BURLINGTON – Early detection of the emerald ash borer, hemlock woolly adelgid and other invasive forest pests will help minimize economic and ecological damage to Vermont’s forests.
The Vermont Urban and Community Forestry (VT UCF) program is offering a free, self-paced, four-week online course for outdoor enthusiasts, trail managers and others who spend time in the woods who are interested in becoming a Vermont Forest Pest First Detector. The course runs from March 16 to April 13 and participants will have access to class materials until the end of the year.
Participants will learn how to identify and report invasive forest pests, determine management strategies and explore opportunities to take action in their communities and on local trails. The course will cover a number of different pests including hemlock wooly adelgid, Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, spotted lanternfly, jumping worms and oak wilt.
In addition to the eight self-study modules, three live Zoom sessions with forestry professionals will delve into some topics in depth, including beech leaf disease and forest health and methods to treat ash trees on trails for the emerald ash borer.
The deadline to register is March 13. Course details and a link to registration can be found at vtcommunityforestry.org/pests. To request a disability-related accommodation, contact Ginger Nickerson at (802) 656-4831 or [email protected] by February 26.
