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Women Owning Woodlands, a program for women interested in managing and caring for woodlands, will host a workshop on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the University of Arkansas at Monticello.

Organized by the Arkansas Forestry Association (AFA) in partnership with the UAM College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources, the workshop aims to provide valuable resources and practical guidance for female landowners. Attendees will gain expert insights from UAM faculty and staff on strategies for effective forest and wildlife resource management, as well as opportunities to connect with fellow landowners.

UAM’s natural resource faculty will lead sessions on critical topics, including forest health, wildlife management practices, long-term planning for forest markets and estate planning. Additionally, representatives from the Arkansas Forest Health Center, the Arkansas Center for Forest Business and Lion Legal will share information about the resources and services available to landowners for forest management.

The workshop will also include a special demonstration by student leaders from the UAM Forestry Club. The students will showcase their involvement with timbersports events by providing an axe and knife throwing demonstration.  

Anna Sparks, director of business at AFA and lead organizer for Women Owning Woodlands, stated, “Women Owning Woodlands is dedicated to equipping women with the knowledge and tools needed to confidently manage their woodlands, regardless of their prior experience. Our workshops aim to offer tailored educational materials and fosters connections among women woodland owners.”

Dr. Michael Blazier, dean of the UAM College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources, emphasized the importance of the workshop, stating, “Women Owning Woodlands serves a vital educational need. Women often take on ownership of family forests, and with that comes the responsibility of navigating the legal and tax issues that arise. To maximize the value of their forestland, they also need foundational knowledge in ecologically and economically sound forest management practices, as well as guidance on finding professionals to assist with that management. This workshop provides information in all these areas as part of the programming offered by Women Owning Woodlands, and it’s our pleasure to help host it.”

Registration for the workshop is $15, which includes lunch. To register, contact Anna Sparks at 501-374-2441 or sign up online at https://tinyurl.com/WOWUAM.