Ohio River Valley Woodlands and Wildlife Workshop Offers Chance to Learn From Extension Specialists
Do you want to learn how to get the most out of your property? Make plans to attend the 2024 Ohio River Valley Woodlands and Wildlife Workshop on March 23 and learn best practices directly from extension specialists from Purdue University, Ohio State University and the University of Kentucky.
The event, set to take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Clifty Inn at Clifty Falls State Park (1650 Clifty Hollow Rd., Madison, IN 47250), will offer educational sessions ranging from managing invasive plants to managing woodlands for birds, the use of prescribed fire and more.
“The workshop is an excellent opportunity to learn many aspects of managing the wildlife, forest and aquatic resources on your property,” Purdue extension wildlife specialist Brian MacGowan said. “Attendees will also be able to meet other woodland owners and share ideas.”
Sessions will begin at 9 a.m. with concurrent talks on:
- Learning about Growing Christmas Trees
- Tree Identification
- Deer Impact Toolbox
At 10 a.m. attendees will choose from sessions on:
- Managing Woodland Invasive Plants
- Forest Soils 101
- Capturing Clear Images Using Simple Techniques
At 11 a.m., you can learn about:
- Intro to Honey Bees and Beekeeping
- White Oak Initiative
- Forestry for the Birds
After a buffet lunch, which is included in the registration fee, wrap up the day with two more educational sessions.
At 1 p.m., select from:
- Spotted Lanternfly: Where is it now?
- Prescribed Fire and Oak Management

- The Eastern Hellbender
At 2 p.m., sessions include:
- Rain Gardens – Planting Our Way to Water Quality
- Ohio Maple Toolbox
- Owls of the Tristate
Early registration is available through March 4 at the rate of $47 per person. Beginning on March 5, the registration rate increases to $65 per person.
Lodging is available for March 22 and 23 at the Clifty Inn for a special rate of $107 plus tax per night until Feb. 23. Ask for group code 0323WO. Contact the Inn at 1-877-563-4371 or book your room online at www.indianainns.com using the group name “0323WO.”
The Ohio Valley Woodlands and Wildlife Workshop is co-hosted by the Purdue Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue FNR Extension and the Indiana Forestry and Woodland Owners Association. Additional support is provided by the University of Kentucky Extension and Ohio State University Extension.