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From the Woods Today

Renee Williams, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension

From the Woods Today is a weekly internet show co-hosted by Reneé Williams and Billy Thomas with UK Forestry and Natural Resources Extension. The show airs live on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. EDT on FromtheWoodsToday.com

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26 episodes
Avg 58 min
English

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#313
October 2 · 54 min
From the Woods Today - Landowner's Tips for Timber Sales
Thinking about selling timber from your woodland? Join Bill Knott with the Kentucky Division of Forestry as he shares valuable tips for landowners planning a timber sale, including how to protect your interests, maximize your investment, and ensure a successful harvest. Also on tap...Laurie Thomas, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, helps us answer one of fall's most colorful questions: Why do leaves change color in autumn? Discover the science behind the brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows that light up Kentucky's forests each year. Get practical woodland advice and fascinating forest science all in one episode!
#312
September 25 · 1 hr 2 min
From the Woods Today - Nocturnal Animals that use Trees
There are many animal species in Kentucky that are more active at night, and some of them live in trees. Join Frannie Preston, UK Department of Forestry & Natural Resources - Extension, to learn about these nocturnal animals, their adaptations, and how they depend on the trees in your woodlands. Also on tap...Chad Niman, UK Department of Forestry & Natural Resources - Extension, joins us to discuss cross-laminated timber (CLT), what it is, how it is transforming the construction industry, and the growing opportunities it presents for Kentucky's forests including a conference being held October 12 -14 in Lexington.
#311
September 21 · 54 min
From the Woods Today - Wings of Kentucky
Ever wondered if that black bird is a crow or a raven? Join us on Wings of Kentucky as Dr. DJ McNeil, UK Department of Forestry & Natural Resources, breaks down the key differences between crows and ravens, from their size and calls to their flight patterns. Plus, did you know there are two species of crows found in Kentucky? Dr. McNeil will also explain how to tell them apart! Also on tap...Dr. Ellen Crocker, UK Department of Forestry & Natural Resources - Extension, joins us to talk about fall mushrooms, including what species you may encounter this season and why fungi play such an important role in Kentucky's woodlands. Don't miss this fascinating look at two of nature's most intriguing subjects!
#310
September 14 · 45 min
From the Woods Today - Kentucky Outdoors
Looking for your next outdoor adventure? Check out Kentucky Outdoors, a new partnership between the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry & Natural Resources and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources focused on hunting, fishing, shooting sports, wild game cooking, and outdoor education. Join Dr. Matt Springer, Jacob Coleman, Andy McQueen, and Jann Knappage from the Department of Forestry & Natural Resources - Extension as they discuss how Kentucky Outdoors is connecting people with opportunities to hunt, fish, participate in shooting sports, and learn more about wild game preparation and outdoor recreation.
#309
September 10 · 1 hr 4 min
From the Woods Today - Best Management Practices for Landowners
This week on From the Woods Today, we're joined by Beth Williams, Kentucky Master Logger Coordinator, to discuss the importance of Best Management Practices (BMPs) in forestry and logging operations. BMPs help protect water quality, reduce erosion, and ensure that Kentucky's forests remain healthy and productive. Beth will share how these practices are implemented on the ground and why they play such a critical role in forest management. Also on tap: Dr. Manisha Parajuli from Kentucky State University's School of Agriculture and Natural Resources joins us to discuss how drone technology is being used to monitor BMPs and give landowners a bird's-eye view of forestry practices.
#308
September 1 · 1 hr 6 min
From the Woods Today - Landowner Landscapes
This week on From the Woods Today, learn why some areas are full of wildlife while others seem quiet. The answer often come down to how our landscapes are owned and managed. Join Jacob Stewart, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, as he explores how land ownership patterns and land-use decisions shape wildlife habitat across Kentucky. From family forests and farms to public lands and developed areas, every management choice influences where wildlife can find food, cover, and places to thrive. Also on tap: Join Ellen Crocker, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, as she returns with another Pesky Plants segment featuring kudzu. Known as the "the vine that ate the South," this invasive plant grows rapidly, smothering trees, shrubs, and native vegetation under a blanket of dense foliage. Join us to learn more.
#307
August 21 · 1 hr 1 min
From the Woods Today - Solar Kiln
This week on From the Woods Today, learn how Kentucky wood products producers and landowners can benefit from the latest training and technical assistance available through the University of Kentucky Forestry and Natural Resources Extension. Join us as Chad Niman, Forest Products Specialist, covers recent support on a custom solar wood drying kiln project with a Kentucky landowner and also shares available resources for kiln drying support. Also on tap: Laurie Thomas, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, returns with another Tree of the Week segment featuring winged elm. Found throughout much of Kentucky, winged elm is a medium-sized native hardwood known for the distinctive corky "wings" that develop along its twigs. Laurie will explore the tree's unique characteristics, ecological importance, wildlife value, and how to identify this species in Kentucky's forests.
#306
August 20 · 1 hr
From the Woods Today - Biochar
Discover the many benefits and uses of biochar, a stable, carbon-rich material produced by heating organic matter in a low-oxygen environment. Join Dr. Manisha Parajuli of Kentucky State University's School of Agriculture & Natural Resources as she explains what biochar is, its many applications, the feedstocks used to produce it, and common production methods. Kentucky has an abundant supply of materials that can be converted into biochar, including invasive species such as Callery pear. Lori Bell, owner of Blue Turtle Permaculture, LLC and a 2025 graduate of the Kentucky Master Naturalist Program, shares her experience and provides a step-by-step look at creating biochar using a custom-built Kon-Tiki style kiln. Also on tap: Dr. Ellen Crocker with the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, discusses laurel wilt, a destructive tree disease spread by the redbay ambrosia beetle that threatens members of the laurel family. Learn how the disease spreads, the symptoms to watch for, and what this emerging threat could mean for Kentucky's forests and landscapes.
#305
August 20 · 1 hr 4 min
From the Woods Today - Ticks
Join Dr. Jonathan Larson and Dr. Hannah Tiffin, UK Entomology, as they share expert advice on identifying, controlling, and managing ticks on people and in woodland environments. Discover effective strategies to keep these pesky insects at bay, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience for you and your family. Also on tap: Japanese knotweed is a non-native invasive shrub that is native to several countries in eastern Asia. Also known as japanese bamboo, Mexican bamboo, and fleeceflower, it can form very dense stands that shade out, outcompete, and prevent the germination of native plants. Join us as Dr. Ellen Crocker, Forestry and Natural Resources, talks about how japanese knotweed spreads, tolerates a wide range of growing conditions and has the potential to become a much worse problem in Kentucky than it is currently.
#304
July 24 · 48 min
From the Woods Today - The Viceroy: Kentucky's State Butterfly
Often mistaken for the Monarch, the Viceroy has its own fascinating story to tell. Join Jonathan Larson, UK Entomology, on this episode of From the Woods Today as he explores the biology, habitat, and unique adaptations of Kentucky's official state butterfly. Learn how to identify a Viceroy, and Monarch, how the Viceroy became our State butterfly, why it mimics the Monarch, and what woodland and riparian habitats are essential for its survival. Also on tap: Join us as Laurie Thomas, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, explains the unique characteristics, ecology, and significance of a Kentucky native tree with another installment of Tree of the Week. 7.22.26
#303
July 21 · 57 min
From the Woods Today - Trees and Pollinators
When we think of pollinators, we often think about bees on garden flowers. But what about the trees that need pollinators, and the pollinators that need trees? Join Frannie Preston, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension to learn about some of these organisms that work together for their life cycles. Also on tap: Fraser magnolia is one of several magnolia trees native to Kentucky. This small flowering tree is known for its large showy flowers and unusually large leaves. Join us as Laurie Thomas, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, explains the unique characteristics, ecology, and significance of this remarkable native tree. Plus, Dr. Ellen Crocker, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, highlights chanterelles, one of the most sought-after wild mushrooms in Kentucky's forests. Learn how to identify their distinctive features, where they are commonly found, and the important role these fungi play. 7.15.26 For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today
#302
July 10 · 46 min
From the Woods Today - Heat Stress in Plants
As temperatures climb, plants can experience heat stress just like people. How do trees and plants respond when temperatures rise? Join Dr. Sybil Gotsch, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, as she discusses what increasing heat events may mean for our forests and plants. Also on tap: Dr. Ellen Crocker, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, highlights this week's Pesky Plant: Japanese Chaff Flower, an invasive species that is spreading throughout forested areas. Learn how to identify it, understand its impacts, and discover management strategies for controlling its spread. 7.8.26 For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today
#301
July 9 · 52 min
From The Woods Today - Native Plants in Your Woodlands
Native plants aren't just beautiful—they're essential to healthy forests and wildlife habitats. From supporting pollinators like bees and butterflies to improving soil and water quality, native plants play a critical role in our ecosystems. Join Eric Comley, Garrard County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development, as he highlights some of the native plants you're likely to find in your woods and explains why they matter. Also on tap: Nick Wiram with Quail Forever, a national nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to the preservation and restoration of quail, pheasants, and other upland wildlife. He'll share insights on how habitat management and conservation practices can support quail across Kentucky. 7.1.26 For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today
#300
July 9 · 57 min
From The Woods Today - The Dance of the Dragonfly
In this episode, Dr. Jonathan Larson, University of Kentucky Department of Entomology, dives into the "dance" of the dragonfly—its remarkable flight patterns, lifecycle, and the critical role it plays in controlling insect populations. We'll also look at the habitats that support dragonflies and how forest and water management practices can enhance conditions for these incredible insects. Also on tap: Whether you're a woodland owner, outdoor enthusiast, or just curious about the trees around you, join Laurie Thomas, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources – Extension, as she brings us another Tree of the Week. She will help you better understand and appreciate this week's featured species the cockspur hawthorn. 6.24.26 For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today
#300
June 24 · 58 min
From the Woods Today - Prehistoric and Extinct Wildlife in Kentucky
Do you ever wonder what animals roamed the forests in Kentucky 200 years ago? What about 20,000 years ago? Wildlife of Kentucky's past played a huge role in shaping our forests. Join Frannie Preston, with the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources- Extension, to learn about these historic species and what they can tell us about forest management today. Also on tap: Looking for trusted resources to help you manage your woodland? This week's episode dives into the wealth of tools, publications, and guidance available for woodland owners at UKForestry.org. Whether you're a new landowner or a seasoned steward, these resources can help you make informed decisions and get the most out of your woodland. Join Billy Thomas and Renee' Williams, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources – Extension, as they navigate the website to show woodland owners where to find key resources, how to use them, and practical ways to apply them on your property. Don't miss this helpful walkthrough designed to connect you with the tools you need to succeed. 6.17.26 For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today
#298
June 11 · 51 min
From the Woods Today - Frog Calls
Spring and summer evenings in Kentucky come alive with the sounds of frogs calling from wetlands, ponds, and forest edges. These vocalizations aren't just background noise—they're an important way to identify species. Learn the different types of frog calls as Dr. Steven Price, with the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, shows us how to recognize these unique sounds and better understand the amphibians that live all around us. Also on tap: Dr. Ellen Crocker, with the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, brings us the next Pesky Plant installment — porcelain berry. Don't let its beauty fool you, this invasive vine known for its striking, multicolored berries, can quickly become a serious problem in Kentucky's woodlands and landscapes. 6.10.26 For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today
#297
June 11 · 59 min
From the Woods Today - Spotted Lanternfly
What's got spots all over and totally sucks (tree sap)? It's the spotted lanternfly, one of Kentucky's newest invasive pests. Join us as Dr. Jonathan Larson, UK Entomology, teaches about the spotted lanternfly and what it means for your trees. Also on tap: Tree-of-heaven? That's definitely a misnomer! This invasive tree is a threat in both forests and urban areas. And, as if that wasn't bad enough, it's also the favorite host of the spotted lanternfly. Join Dr. Ellen Crocker, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension, to learn more about how to identify and control tree-of-heaven. The battle against the spotted lanternfly is heating up and our trees are on the front lines. Barbara Karsnitz,Kentucky Division of Forestry, will discuss what they are doing to track populations of this new invasive in Kentucky. 6.3.26 For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today
#296
June 11 · 1 hr
From the Woods Today - Wings of Kentucky
Many warbler songs are easier to remember when tied to phrases. Dr. D.J. McNeil, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, will show us how these little memory tricks can help you pick out warbler songs more easily and start recognizing them on your own with a new edition of Wings of Kentucky. Also on tap: Rooting Out the Myths: Is Clear-cutting Always Bad for Wildlife? Clear-cutting often gets a bad reputation—and in some cases, concerns are valid. Seeing a stand of trees removed can feel alarming. However, the idea that clear-cutting is always harmful to wildlife is a myth. Like many forestry practices, its impact depends on how, where, and why it's used. Join Dr. Matt Springer, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension as he lets us know how clear-cutting could be helpful for some wildlife. 5.27.26 For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today
#295
May 28 · 57 min
From the Woods Today - What's Invading Your Woods?
Invasive species come in all forms and fashions here in the Commonwealth and we will touch on an invasive plant, an invasive insect, and an invasive pathogen currently impacting our state. Join Alexandra Blevins, Kentucky Division of Forestry's Forest Health Program Coordinator, for a discussion about invasive threats to our woodlands. Also on tap: With 44 state parks and two scenic linear trails, Kentucky State Parks offers something for everyone looking to get outside and explore. Planning your next adventure can be even easier with their free official Kentucky State Parks app, OuterSpatial. Robert Myers, Kentucky State Parks, will tell us more about this app and what it has in store. 5.20.26 For more episodes of From the Woods Today or to watch the video of this episode, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today
#294
May 19 · 59 min
From the Woods Today - Amphibians and WaterwaysLex
Amphibians play a vital role in Kentucky's forests and waterways. Join Dr. Steve Price, UK Forestry and Natural Resources Department Chair and Professor of Stream and Riparian Ecology, as he breaks down why these frogs, toads, and salamanders are so important to our forests and streams. Also on tap: Join Dr. Amanda Gumbert, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension - along with John Pike and Pace Cooke-Emmons from WaterwaysLex as they describe how volunteers can help improve water quality and the work they are doing to organize watershed groups in central KY. 5.13.26 Each episode has a video of the segment at this website.

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