2025 Forestry and Natural Resources Webinar - Understanding Maryland's Forests

Presented by Daniel Pratson, University of Maryland Extension - Woodland Stewardship Education program. Daniel introduced himself as a new Extension faculty member focusing on forestry and natural resources, and presented an overview of Maryland's forest history from pre-colonial times through modern developments. He discussed the changing landscape of Maryland forests, including historical land clearing patterns, conservation efforts, and current forest composition, while highlighting the challenges of measuring and managing forests in urban and developed areas. The presentation concluded with a discussion of future forest management considerations, including the impact of climate change and the role of small urban forests, with opportunities for audience feedback and questions about specific forest-related topics.