Missouri Woodland Mentor Series
Location
Virtual Event
Date
January 28, 2026 at 6:30 PM - September 30, 2026 at 7:30 PM
About
The Missouri Woodland Mentor program, launched by MU Extension in partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation, invites landowners to serve as mentors for fellow property owners who are exploring forest management practices for the first time.
The Mentor Series has something for every landowner. Consider being a mentor or attend programs of interest to enhance your knowledge of MO woods and management needs. All are welcome to attend.
Landowners learn best from each other. By sharing real-world experiences and lessons learned, mentors can help others avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions that benefit both their land and the environment.
Mentors are as active as they want to be. Outreach activities can include phone consultation, site field visits, and community workshops. The program provides training, resources, and support to help mentors effectively share their knowledge and foster meaningful connections.
To qualify as a Woodland Mentor, you must complete all the sessions. Sessions will also be recorded, and you can catch up on the ones you miss.
Sessions are listed below. All sessions will run from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30p.m. Let’s grow a healthier forest—together.
Sessions
Jan. 28, 2026
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06:30 PM - 07:30 PM CST Intro to the mentor series
Learn who owns Missouri woods and all about Missouri’s diverse landscape from bottomland to upland forests, glades and woodlands. This session will help you understand the diversity hidden in the woods.
Location: Zoom
Feb. 25, 2026
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06:30 PM - 07:30 PM CST How we value Missouri woods
Unlock the value of woods and trees for Missouri. Learn about how woods improve our economy, the environment and enhance our lives.
Location: Zoom
March 25, 2026
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06:30 PM - 07:30 PM CDT Why we cut trees to manage trees
How we manage trees is influenced by how trees grow. Learn influencers of tree growth, the art and science of tending the woods, and woodland management.
Location: Zoom
April 29, 2026
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06:30 PM - 07:30 PM CDT Birds need managed woods
Many songbirds are in decline and landowners can make the difference. Learn what you can do to improve conditions for songbirds.
Location: Zoom
May 27, 2026
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06:30 PM - 07:30 PM CDT Forest species of concern
Extinction is forever. Learn about some rare and declining wildlife and trees and what is being done and what you can do to ensure survival of these plants and animals.
Location: Zoom
June 24, 2026
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06:30 PM - 07:30 PM CDT Enhancing the woods for desired wildlife
Many landowners value their property to hunt, hike and enjoy nature. Wildlife are a critical resource for them. Learn about a variety of practices that can be used to create diverse forest habitat conditions for wildlife of interest.
Location: Zoom
July 29, 2026
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06:30 PM - 07:30 PM CDT Threats to the woods
Insects and disease to invasive species, learn what to look for and how to respond to insect and invasive threats.
Location: Zoom
Aug. 26, 2026
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06:30 PM - 07:30 PM CDT Know your woods
Unlocking the potential of your woods begins with realistic objectives and who you can rely on for financial and technical assistance in reaching them.
Location: Zoom
Sept. 30, 2026
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06:30 PM - 07:30 PM CDT Tools for engaging landowners
You are not alone in this endeavor. We have tools and resources for you to improve your confidence in mentoring landowners.
Location: Zoom