Now that we are well into the fall months, images of wildfire activity have begun to infiltrate media outlets and platforms across the country as several states are in the heart of fall wildfire season. Local, state and federal agencies are pushing public information...
Forestry Files
Be sure to add the N.C. Forest Service exhibit to your list of things to do while visiting the N.C. State Fair
The N.C. State Fair is just days away from opening and is sure to be a treat for all ages. Whether you’re here for the thrilling rides, educational exhibits or to indulge yourself with a wide variety of delectable food options, this year’s fair will feature many of...
Fighting fire in the ‘third dimension’ and the road to recovery
Since 2010, more than 42,000 wildfires have taken place in North Carolina, burning well over 400,000 acres. The approach to fighting wildland fire is anything but “one size fits all” when considering the vast geographical differences throughout the state. The...
State Forest or State Park: Do you know the difference?
Rangers, fishing, educational programs and the use of prescribed fire are a few things that state parks and state forests have in common in North Carolina. Because of this, not being able to easily distinguish a state forest from a state park is a trap most people...
Invasive plants and pests are spreading faster, and they’re getting a lot of help
Now that the months have turned to summer, folks are spending more time outdoors. Whether that makes you an outdoor enthusiast, or simply puts you in the yard, in front of a grill or by the pool, you may notice new tree damage and unfamiliar insects. While many people associate tree damage with weather events, […]
Celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day by planting the right tree in the right place
Spring is more than just a season between March and mid-June. It’s also a verb that means “to rise, move or leap.” These words also describe human activity as they reemerge from the winter months and cold temperatures by partaking in more outdoor activities. Plants, trees and flowers are doing the same with new growth […]
Fighting fire with fire: why we need to burn the land
Many people associate fire with destruction, devastation and loss. Large clouds of smoke, burly orange blazes, tree limbs snapping and ash falling like snow are some of the images we’ve all seen that contribute to the “fire is bad” perception. While wildfires can reach a dangerous and destructive level quickly, not all fire is bad. […]
N.C. Forest Service County Ranger Robert Montague receives the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Customer Service
North Carolina Forest Service Granville-Vance Area Ranger Robert Montague is a recent recipient of the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Customer Service – one of the state’s highest honors. The service aspect of his job is exactly what drives Montague. “The service part is what is important to me,” Montague said. “I enjoy what I […]
New fairgrounds building made of N.C. native wood now bears name of ‘Renaissance man’ who managed construction
The newest building at the N.C. State Fair now has its official name. During the 2021 fair, Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler announced the name at a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and with that announcement he surprised the man who supervised the building’s construction. The building was completed just before the 2021 fair, and Troxler revealed the name […]
Forestry economist release economic impact numbers of the forest sector
Forestry economists from N.C. State University recently released the latest economic impact numbers of the forest sector, which at $34.9 billion represents a $1 billion increase from last year. Forestry and logging operations, sawmills, furniture mills, and pulp and paper industries are included in the forestry sector. I think we can all agree North Carolina […]
Poolside Pests: Checking your pool filters this summer can save North Carolina’s trees
Guest authors: Courtney Smith and Kelly Oten, NCSU Extension As the weather gets warmer in North Carolina, it’s clear that summer is upon us. Many people enjoy what summer brings — the warm weather, vacations and relaxing by the pool! But did you know that you could also help save North Carolina’s trees while enjoying […]
Look out for the spotted lanternfly, a bug that threatens fruit and wine!
Guest authors: Courtney Smith and Kelly Oten, NCSU Extension You won’t like the spotted lanternfly if you like to sit under the shade of trees, enjoy fruits such as apples, sip wine or work in the garden. The spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect from Asia that attacks numerous plants. It was first detected in […]