Speaker: James Wieferich, MDNR Forest Health Division
Title: Invasive Species Threatening Michigan Forests

This talk will briefly cover an overview of invasive species threatening Michigan forests, the invasion curve and the change in “rate of introductions” due to modern day life. Furthermore, the talk will touch on the Michigan’s Invasive Species Watchlist, and will focus in on three pests on the watchlist; Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) and Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB). Each discussion will evolve around the biology, the current extent of the pest and what to look for when you are in the field. Lastly, the presentation will cover what you should do if you find a suspect invasive species and how to report it to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD).

Title: Environmental justice in urban and community forestry: Evidence and opportunities in Michigan

"Environmental justice" refers to the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people--regardless of their race, income, or other characteristics--in the policies and actions we take to manage our environment. Urban and community forestry is not exempt from environmental injustices: Extensive evidence demonstrates that tree canopy is often healthier and more abundant in wealthier, whiter neighborhoods across the United States. This reality is not an accident, but rather the result of historic and systemic racism, which must be understood and addressed to achieve environmental justice. Creating more "just" urban forests is not as simple as planting trees in low canopy neighborhoods. This work will entail sustained and cohesive efforts from the municipal, non-profit, commercial, utility, academic, and civil society sectors. Dr. Carmichael conducted research in Detroit, Michigan from 2014 to 2017 to understand why residents in predominantly Black neighborhoods submitted "no-tree requests" when offered a free street tree by a non-profit organization. This presentation will describe findings from this research in Detroit, as well as the lessons from a well-established body of environmental justice research, that can be applied to efforts in cities across Michigan to engage more diverse people in equitably restoring and sustaining urban forests.

Speaker: Melinda Jones, ReLeaf Michigan

Title: Tree Planting Goals: Boost or Bust

From Million Trees to Trillion Trees, planting is in vogue. It's easy to see why -- trees promote human health, capture carbon, and beautify our communities. Yet, planting alone isn't the solution to vibrant urban forests. Trees need care, maintenance, and successful approaches to urban forestry require strong partnerships and deliberate planting strategies. Join Melinda Jones, Executive Director of ReLeaf Michigan and a key advocate for tree planting for over 30 years to ensure your local planting initiatives are successful and supported.