Illinois Forestry Association upcoming events

2026 Illinois Spring Bird Count: SW Illinois Edition (05/09/2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Join the Illinois Forestry Association and local bird enthusiasts for a day of citizen science! The 2026 Illinois State Bird Count is a statewide effort to document our avian neighbors and the vital habitats that support them.

SW Illinois offers a unique "patchwork quilt" of bird diversity. From the "laughing" Wood Ducks in the southern-flatwood wetlands to the neon-glow of Indigo Buntings in the upland grasslands, our local landscape is home to an incredible variety of species. Whether you’re spotting a Pileated Woodpecker in the timber or a Summer Tanager in the river bottoms, every bird counted helps us understand and protect Illinois’ natural heritage.

This event celebrates the commitment of local landowners to maintaining diverse habitats. We invite birders of all skill levels to help us survey Washington County near Venedy, Okawville, and Nashville.

To RSVP: Please contact Jennifer Malacarne to join the count:

Call: 618-570-8942
Email: tanager2022@gmail.com

From Canopy to Understory: What's Bugging Your Trees? (05/12/2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Join Tricia Bethke, the Forest Pest Outreach Coordinator at the Morton Arboretum, for a lively discussion on what’s bugging our trees in our latest 'From Canopy to Understory' series. In recognition of Illinois Invasive Species Awareness Month each May, this program will highlight emerging and potential tree pests that threaten our forests and communities.

Learn how to identify common invasive insects, understand the risks they pose, and discover practical steps you can take to help manage and report them.

Whether you’re a landowner, gardener, or simply curious about tree health, this engaging session will help you become part of the solution.

2026 Family Forestry Field Day (05/16/2026)

Sat, 16 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Download the Event Program

Join the Illinois Forestry Association, Illinois Extension, the Walnut Council, and Illinois Tree Farm for the 2026 Family Forestry Field Day at the Torstenson Youth Conservation Education Center.

This interactive day is a hands-on demonstration for all ages, designed to help families and community members explore and appreciate forest ecosystems together. We will feature guided activities and live demonstrations led by forestry professionals.

Important Details:

SAF CFEs: 3.5 category 1 credits offered.
Free trees: Every attendee takes home a tree (or two!)
Lunch: A meal will be provided for all attendees.
Gear: Please wear appropriate outdoor gear and sturdy footwear suitable for walking in the woods. Bring bug spray to ward off ticks.
Audience: This event is of interest to all ages, with specific programming for both adults and youth.
Registration: is $15 per adult, $10 for children ages 6-17, and free for 5 & unders.

IFA 21st Annual Conference (09/17/2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Overview

Join forest landowners, conservation professionals, and nature enthusiasts for three days dedicated to Illinois wildlife and habitat management. This year’s program features exclusive field tours at the renowned Nachusa Grasslands, expert-led educational sessions, and valuable networking opportunities.

Conference Schedule

Thursday, Sept 17 (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM): Kickoff with a pre-conference site visit to Nachusa Grasslands.
Friday, Sept 18 (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM): Full day of concurrent indoor/outdoor sessions (choose your track!), member meeting, and silent auction.
Saturday, Sept 19 (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM): A special IFA members-only tour at the "Autumn on the Prairie" festival.

Why Attend?

Exclusive Access: Explore Nachusa Grasslands, a premier site for bison reintroduction, prairie restoration, and conservation research.
Expert Insights: Participate in hands-on demonstrations and talks focused on forest health and wildlife habitat.
Community: Connect with fellow conservationists during our networking sessions and support IFA programs through our silent auction.

Event program available soon!

IFA 21st Annual Conference (09/18/2026)

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Overview

Conference Schedule

Thursday, Sept 17 (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM): Kickoff with a pre-conference site visit to Nachusa Grasslands.
Friday, Sept 18 (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM): Full day of concurrent indoor/outdoor sessions (choose your track!), member meeting, and silent auction.
Saturday, Sept 19 (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM): A special IFA members-only tour at the "Autumn on the Prairie" festival.

Why Attend?

Exclusive Access: Explore Nachusa Grasslands, a premier site for bison reintroduction, prairie restoration, and conservation research.
Expert Insights: Participate in hands-on demonstrations and talks focused on forest health and wildlife habitat.
Community: Connect with fellow conservationists during our networking sessions and support IFA programs through our silent auction.

Event program available soon!

IFA 21st Annual Conference (09/19/2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Overview

Conference Schedule

Thursday, Sept 17 (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM): Kickoff with a pre-conference site visit to Nachusa Grasslands.
Friday, Sept 18 (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM): Full day of concurrent indoor/outdoor sessions (choose your track!), member meeting, and silent auction.
Saturday, Sept 19 (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM): A special IFA members-only tour at the "Autumn on the Prairie" festival.

Why Attend?

Exclusive Access: Explore Nachusa Grasslands, a premier site for bison reintroduction, prairie restoration, and conservation research.
Expert Insights: Participate in hands-on demonstrations and talks focused on forest health and wildlife habitat.
Community: Connect with fellow conservationists during our networking sessions and support IFA programs through our silent auction.

Event program available soon!