Most talk on carbon centers on row crops. But with millions of acres of forest in the Northeast region, it might be a better option for landowners to think of their forests if they want to take a dive into the growing carbon market.

“It's not right for every situation, but the math is really easy for carbon developers to figure out the value of that forest and to estimate potential future growth,” says Calvin Norman, co-founder of the Forest Owner Carbon and Climate Education program at Penn State.

Norman will be one of two speakers who will talk about carbon programs and forestry at this year’s New York Farm Show. The annual forestry seminars and talks will take place in the Martha Eddy Room at the Arts and Home Center on the grounds of the New York State Fairgrounds. The seminars are sponsored by the New York Forest Owners Association and American Agriculturist.

Other talks include sessions on deer control, how to identify invasive species on woodlots, silvopasturing and more.

Check out the schedule for this year’s forestry talks. And for more information, visit the New York Farm Show website at newyorkfarmshow.com.

Friday, Feb. 21

Moderator: Michael Gorham, New York Forest Owners Association

10 a.m. “Deer control by means of slash walls,” by Peter Smallidge, Cornell Cooperative Extension forester

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The increasing number of deer in New York is causing problems when trying to regenerate a woodlot after a timber harvest. Using the slash produced during harvest to create barriers to deer can be an effective control mechanism.

11 a.m. “Invasive species in your woodlot,” by Peter Smallidge, Cornell Cooperative Extension forester

Many non-native plant species find their way into woods and forests. Controlling these invasives helps the native plants and grows a more robust forest for the future.

1 p.m. “Carbon programs for forest and woodland owners,” by Ian Crisman, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

Family forest owners who own just a small number of acres may be eligible to be paid for managing their land in a way that increases the capture of carbon and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Learn how you might benefit. as well as the issues that go with committing your land.

2 p.m. “Silvopasturing: New opportunities for woodland enhancement and income,” by Brett Chedzoy, Cornell Cooperative Extension forester

There are good opportunities in New York to manage your land for both woodland values and livestock production. Goats, sheep or cattle can be tended on the same ground with certain tree species if carefully managed. There are benefits to both the land and the farmer-owner.

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Saturday, Feb. 22

Moderator: Chris Torres, American Agriculturist magazine

10 a.m. “Carbon programs for forest owners,” by Calvin Norman, Penn State University

Family forest owners who own just a small number of acres may be eligible to be paid for managing their land in a way that increases the capture of carbon and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Learn how you might benefit and the issues that go with committing your land.

11 a.m. “Effects of climate change on Northeast forests,” by Calvin Norman, Penn State University

The warming of our planet is producing some important changes in the forests and woods of the northeastern U.S. The changes and how they might affect how we handle our vital forest resources both nationwide and on your small acreage will be discussed.

1 p.m. “Insects affecting your woodlot,” by Dylan Parry, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry

Pest insects are always of concern in forests and woodlands. In New York state, we need to pay attention to emerging threats while also not ignoring more established species, whether they are invasive or native. The status, control efforts and effects of some of these major threats, as well as emerging concerns will be discussed, especially in light of a changing climate.   

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2 p.m. “How a consulting forester can help you manage your woodlot,” by Craig Vollmer, New York Forest Owners Association

Owning and managing a patch of woodland can be very satisfying and rewarding. A professional consulting forester can help you sustainably manage your woods for timber sales, wildlife habitat, carbon capture and other benefits. A professional management plan will help you obtain cost sharing for forest improvement practices.