Forest Health

In this issue, we look at bull thistle. It's a widespread invasive found throughout Maryland, where it has been declared a noxious weed.

In this issue, we look at plumeless thistle, also known as "spiny plumeless thistle." Its presence in Maryland might be more widespread than some reports suggest.

In this issue, we look at musk thistle, also known as "nodding thistle," one of four invasive thistles classified as a noxious weed by the Maryland Department of Agriculture. Each plant can spread over 100,000 seeds.

Mile-a-minute is a vigorous invasive that may only have just begun to spread in the United States. One estimate surmises that it is only found in 20% of its potential range in this country.

Listed are some of the most common questions related to forest ecology and forest management.

Read our features Woodland Wildlife Spotlight, Invasives in Your Woodland, and the Brain Tickler challenge. There's also news about the state Tree Farmer of the Year and much more.

This issue features Invasives in Your Woodlands, the Woodland Wildlife Spotlight, the Brain Tickler, and woodland stewardship news from around the region.

This issue has a year in review, the Woodland Wildlife Spotlight, Invasives in Your Woodland, the Brain Tickler challenge, how native trees and shrubs can benefit wildlife, and more.

Twenty-five years of "Branching Out" - read how it all started. Plus, read our "Woodland Wildlife Spotlight" and "Invasives in Your Woodland," and take the Brain Tickler challenge. This and much more inside this issue.

August is a good time to assess the future of your woodlands, including the presence of invasive plants and insects, access to prevent or fight wildfires, and to learn more about them through our online courses.