Paul Deizman
President, Illinois Forestry Association
Thursday, September 18
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1:30 PM—
Lovett Field Day Tour,
Paul Deizman
Stretch your legs and explore the Lovett Property with Paul as he shares the site’s history and IFA’s stewardship goals. Expect uneven ground—bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and tick protection.
Address: 3169 Churchman Hollow Rd, Michael, IL 62065. Meet just inside the gate by 1:30 PM. -
5:00 PM—
Registration, Check-In & Silent Auction Open
Pick up your badge and program at Lewis & Clark Community College, Trimpe Advanced Technology Center, Walter S. Ahlemeyer Atrium (Room 141), 5800 Godfrey Rd., Godfrey, IL. Silent Auction opens—browse, bid, and support IFA programs.
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5:00–7:00 PM—
Social Hour (cash bar & appetizers)
Connect with foresters, landowners, and friends of IFA. Light bites and a cash bar; relaxed networking and Silent Auction preview.
Friday, September 19
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8:00–8:30 AM—
Members’ Meeting,
Paul Deizman
Members-only annual business meeting: elections, year-in-review, and priorities.
More info
Led by Paul Deizman. A concise review of the year, board elections, budget approvals, and member feedback that shapes IFA priorities for the year ahead. Members only. -
8:30 AM—
Registration, Check-In & Silent Auction Open
Pick up your badge and coffee in the Atrium (Room 141). Silent Auction opens here too.
More info
Check in at the Atrium (Room 141) to pick up your badge, program, and auction number. The Silent Auction funds IFA programs—browse early and bid often. -
9:00–9:05 AM—
Opening Remarks,
Paul Deizman
Welcome and overview of the day.
More info
Paul Deizman welcomes attendees, thanks sponsors and partners, reviews the day’s flow, and unveils IFA’s refreshed mission, vision, and logo. -
9:05–9:30 AM—
Managing Land to Fulfill IFA’s Mission,
Paul Deizman & Brad Petersburg
How IFA evaluates gifts of land, plans stewardship, and aligns decisions with our mission.
More info
Because of generous donors, IFA has been blessed with the opportunity to directly own and manage forested land in perpetuity. IFA takes this responsibility very seriously. It’s more complicated than simply accepting a donation and following a forest management plan. This presentation will review IFA’s Real Estate Donation Process and the planning that occurs both before and after a donation. Fulfilling IFA’s mission is the primary goal when deciding to accept or decline the donation of land and, if accepted, the subsequent preparation of a Property Management Plan and a Forest Management Plan. -
9:30–9:50 AM—
IDNR Forestry Division Update,
Kyle Burkwald
Program update from the Illinois DNR Forestry Division.
More info
Updates on the state of the Illinois DNR Forestry Division. -
9:50–10:30 AM—
Women Carving Out Space in Conservation,
Sarah Higgins
Women Owning Woodlands: building community, reducing barriers, and growing stewardship skills.
More info
Though sometimes overlooked, a key element to making progress in conservation is cultivating support from all people, including those demographics that were historically underrepresented. The number of women acting as a primary decision maker for woodlands in the United States has increased, but many women face barriers that can make forest management seem daunting or unattainable. The Women Owning Woodlands program aims to bridge the gap between women woodland owners and forest stewardship by creating a welcoming space for participants to learn tools they need to achieve their management goals and grow community. - 10:30–10:45 AM— Break
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10:45–11:45 AM—
Geological Musing on the Landscapes of Illinois,
Tom Simpson
A guided look at Illinois geology to understand forests, prairies, wetlands and more.
More info
Illinois is not flat and boring. It is as old and interesting as any other part of the earth. It is simply a matter of looking closely at what is in front of you. We will explore the geology of the state as a way of putting the prairies, forests, savannas, bogs, marshes, streams, beaver ponds, and rivers into their proper ecological context. Why? The first rule of conservation is to see and understand the beauty and value of the land and what it contains. We will begin there. - 11:45–12:00 PM— Saturday Field Tour Logistics
- 12:00–1:00 PM— Lunch
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1:00–2:00 PM—
Concurrent Sessions
Indoor: Wildlife and Woods—Growing Habitat Through Timber Management, Stacy LindmannHow habitat protection and timber management work together for thriving ecosystems.
More info
Healthy forests mean healthy wildlife! We will discuss how protecting habitat and managing timber go hand-in-hand to create thriving ecosystems. Whether you’re into birds, bucks, or just beautiful woods, discover how smart forestry practices help nature do its best work!Outdoor: Campus Tour, Scott MossWalk the grounds and see forestry-related activities connected to L&C.More info
Take a tour around campus and explore forest-related activities associated with Professor Moss at Lewis and Clark Community College. - 2:00–2:10 PM— Break
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2:10–3:10 PM—
Concurrent Sessions
Indoor: Flowers and Foliage—Trees, Shrubs & Forbs to Support Pollinators, Kevin RohlingNative species and practical management strategies to boost pollinators.
More info
Pollinators—and insects in general—are experiencing widespread declines, prompting growing concern and interest in supporting them across the landscape. This presentation will highlight a range of native trees, shrubs, and forbs that are particularly beneficial to pollinators, along with their preferences and practical management strategies to encourage them in your forests and landscapes. Participants will gain the knowledge and tools for enhancing forest habitats to effectively support pollinators.Outdoor: Getting to the Root of Tree ID, Taryn BieriHands-on tree/shrub ID: bark, branches, buds and more.More info
Does tree/shrub identification leaf you feeling stumped? Learn some of the basic tips and tricks of tree/shrub ID on this beginner friendly walk with forester Taryn Bieri. We will look at the bark, branches, buds and more to help prepare you for identifying trees and shrubs on your own. - 3:10–3:20 PM— Break
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3:20–4:20 PM—
Concurrent Sessions
Indoor: Fix it with Fire, Zack StawickiReintroducing prescribed fire to restore balance and health across ecosystems.
More info
Since the Glacier receded, fire and other forms of disturbance have shaped our landscape. In recent history we have removed fire and have let our lands remain neglected. Now we need to reintroduce fire back into our ecosystems to create a balanced and healthy environment for future generations.Outdoor: Beneath the Canopy and Beyond—Drones Changing the Face of Forestry, Joe HouseLive demo of sub-canopy “Deep Forestry” measurements and precision aerial tools.More info
See the forest from a different view, a digital view with the only Deep Forestry drone in all of North America. This remarkable system flies autonomously below the forest canopy to measure every tree, revealing an unseen world of data and discovery. Join me for a live outdoor demo of this cutting-edge technology, plus the powerful Hylio AG-216, built for precision herbicide application and seeding operations. Along the way, we’ll explore the future of forestry with Digital Silva, from next-gen payloads to innovative aerial services and show how drones and other remote sensing technologies are transforming conservation, land management, and the business of trees. - 4:20–4:30 PM— Break & Final Silent Auction Bidding
- 4:30 PM— Silent Auction Concludes
Saturday, September 20 — Field Day @ Palisades Nature Preserve and Chautauqua Hill Prairie
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8:30 AM—
Meet at Great Rivers Land Trust Office
Gather for field day staging and directions to the tour site. Address suggestion: Hoffman Gardens, 4827-4819 Whitford Dr, Godfrey, IL 62035
More info
Please arrive promptly at 8:30am to organize carpools. Carpool leaves at 8:45am for the drive to the field site. -
9:00–11:00 AM—
Field Day Tour with
Alley Ringhausen
Field tour at the Palisades Nature Preserve & Chautauqua Hill Prairie
More info
Led by Alley Ringhausen (Great Rivers Land Trust) and Debbie Newman (Illinois Nature Preserves Commission) This guided visit will feature two significant properties along the Great River Road between Alton and Grafton, Illinois: Palisades Nature Preserve – A 430-acre tract acquired by Great Rivers Land Trust through private foundation grants, with a conservation easement retained by GRLT and ownership held by the Lewis and Clark Community College Foundation. The property is jointly managed by GRLT and the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC). Chautauqua Hill Prairie – Recently dedicated as an Illinois Nature Preserve and recognized as a Forest Legacy property. This site is one of the region’s best remaining examples of hill prairie and is included in the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory. Both properties feature dramatic outcroppings with spectacular views of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. Representatives from NGRREC will also share insights into ongoing stewardship activities at the sites.
Brad Petersburg
Treasurer, Illinois Forestry Association
More info
Brad lives in the northwest corner of Illinois where he manages his woodlands and prairie primarily for the benefit of wildlife. He currently serves as IFA Treasurer.
Kyle Burkwald
Forestry Division, Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Sarah Higgins
Field Specialist in Natural Resources, University of Missouri Extension
More info
Sarah is a Field Specialist in Natural Resources with University of Missouri Extension. A St. Louis native, she serves 29 counties in southeast Missouri and runs the Missouri chapter of Women Owning Woodlands statewide. She holds a B.S. in Soil Science (minors in Forestry & Geology) from the University of Missouri and an M.S. in Soil Science from West Virginia University. Passionate about the connection between soils and forests, she supports women in meeting their conservation goals and pays forward the mentorship she has received.
Tom Simpson
Research Ecologist, McHenry County Conservation District
More info
Tom leads ecological restoration management and applied research at MCCD and teaches public and staff workshops. Since 2020 he has produced “Tom Talks” on tree ID, geology, soils, stream restoration, and more. Previously he served at Northeastern Illinois University and The Morton Arboretum. He holds a Ph.D. (University of Michigan), M.S. (Auburn University) in Forest Ecology, and B.S. (UIUC) in Forest Science.
Stacy Lindmann
Forester, National Wild Turkey Federation
More info
For 14 years, Stacy has helped private landowners manage their properties to enhance timber resources and wildlife habitat. She’s passionate about building healthy, productive forests that support diverse wildlife while meeting landowners’ goals.
Scott Moss
Professor, Lewis & Clark Community College
Kevin Rohling
Extension Specialist, Forest Management & Ecology — University of Illinois
More info
Kevin conducts research, education, and outreach on forest ecology, invasive species, technology in forestry, prescribed fire, wildlife, chainsaw safety, and natural areas management. He earned B.S. and M.S. degrees in Geography (Biogeography & GIS) from SIU Edwardsville. Since 2004 he has worked with River to River CWMA, Natural Land Institute, The Nature Conservancy, Great Basin Institute, Illinois EPA, Great Rivers Land Trust, and the National Park Service.
Taryn Bieri
District Forester, Illinois Department of Natural Resources
More info
Taryn earned a B.S. (2020) and M.S. (2024) in Forestry from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and has worked in forestry since 2017. Past roles include coordinator of the Beginning Forest Landowner Program (University of Illinois Extension Forestry) and forest ecologist at the Illinois Natural History Survey. She joined IDNR as a District Forester in July 2024, serving five counties in southern Illinois.
Zack Stawicki
Prescribed Fire Practitioner
Joe House
Founder, Digital Silva (Deep Forestry Drones)
Alley Ringhausen
Executive Director, Great Rivers Land Trust
More info
Alley Ringhausen has served as the Executive Director of Great Rivers Land Trust since
2001. He joined Great Rivers Land Trust in 1999 as Developer and Manager of the Piasa
Creek Watershed Project. Under his leadership, Great Rivers Land Trust has protected
thousands of acres of property in Illinois and Missouri, developed wetlands, reduced
erosion, planned parks, restored streams, and partnered with numerous organizations on a
wide variety of conservation projects. He has an extensive background in conservation
consultation and assists other non-profit organizations, municipalities, colleges,
government agencies, corporations, and school districts. Some of his accomplishments
include implementing the Piasa Creek Watershed Project in partnership with Illinois
American Water Company, restoration of the Boy Scout Lake at Camp Warren Levis, and
improvement of scenic, historic and ecologically significant properties along the Meeting of
the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway in Illinois.
Directions & Parking
All conference sessions will be held at:
Lewis & Clark Community College
Trimpe Advanced Technology Center
Walter S. Ahlemeyer Atrium, Room 141
5800 Godfrey Rd., Godfrey, IL
- Download Campus Map (PDF)
- Parking is free on campus.
- The thin black line on the map shows the route from either entrance to the Trimpe Atrium; parking areas are highlighted.
Tip: enter “Trimpe Advanced Technology Center, Godfrey” as the destination.
Lodging
Room block nights: Thu Sept 18 → Sat Sept 20 (checkout).
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alton — IFA Room Block (book by Fri, Aug 29)
📍 2008 Homer M Adams Pkwy, Alton, IL 62002
≈ 15 min drive to Trimpe Atrium
Book with IFA Room Block -
Best Western Plus Parkway Hotel (Alton) — mention IFA at check-in for rate
📍 1900 Homer Adams Pkwy, Alton, IL 62002
≈ 10–12 min drive to Trimpe Atrium
Book Best Western Plus
Field Tour Meet-Up Locations
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Thursday Afternoon Tour:
Lovett Property
📍 3169 Churchman Hollow Rd, Michael, IL 62065
Open in Google Maps -
Saturday Morning Tour:
TBD
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorships cover key conference events and provide visibility within the IFA community. Options include:
- Flagship Sponsor — General conference support — $500
- Social Hour Sponsor (Thursday evening) — $250
- Member Sponsorship — Concerned member support — $250
Specific Event Sponsors
- Beverage Service (Friday, all day) — $150
- Lunch (Friday) — $250
- Light Breakfast / Coffee & Water (Saturday) — $150
Silent Auction Sponsors
- Auction Sponsor — $100
- Auction Item Sponsor — Donated items (value varies)
Or call/text Mike at (618) 977-3415
Silent Auction Donations
The Silent Auction is a favorite IFA tradition. Proceeds directly support our programs and mission.
- Hand-made items, especially those crafted from wood, are always popular.
- Other contributions such as outdoor gear, books, artwork, and services are welcome.
- Bidding runs Thursday evening through Friday afternoon; winners announced Friday at 4:30 PM.
Whether you donate, bid, or both, your participation makes a meaningful impact for Illinois forests and the people who care for them.
Or call/text Mike at (618) 977-3415
What food and drinks are included?
Thursday evening appetizers are included, though the cash bar is on your own. Friday includes morning coffee and tea, a warm lunch, and water. Saturday’s field tour will have light snacks and water provided. Please bring your own reusable water bottle—there is a filling station near the Atrium.
When should I arrive?
For the Thursday field tour, please arrive a few minutes before 1:30 pm. For Thursday evening registration at the Atrium, arrive by 5:00 pm for check-in and mingling. For Friday: members should arrive by 8:00am for the Member's Meeting, all other registrants cannot enter the Atrium earlier than 8:30am. You may congregate outside of the atrium for coffee before 8:30am. Meet by 8:00am on Saturday.
Where do I park?
Parking is free on campus. Refer to the campus map for details. Parking areas and the Trimpe Atrium are clearly marked.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Wi-Fi availability is still being confirmed. Details will be shared closer to the event.
Can I register at the door?
Yes. Registration at the door is available. Credit card is the preferred payment method.
Do I need a car for the field tours?
Yes, though we will coordinate a carpool for the Saturday field tour once we meet at the predetermined location.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes. The Atrium is ADA accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs for the field tours, please reach out so we can accommodate you.
Can I request dietary accommodations?
Yes. Dietary accommodations can be indicated in the registration form.
Where are the Friday sessions located?
All Friday sessions will be held in the Trimpe Advanced Technology Center, Walter S. Ahlemeyer Atrium at Lewis and Clark Community College.
How do I donate an item to the Silent Auction?
Please contact Mike McMahan at mcmahan3465@hotmail.com or call/text (618) 977-3415.
How do I become a sponsor?
Sponsorship opportunities are available and affordable. Learn more in our Sponsorship section or contact Mike McMahan at mcmahan3465@hotmail.com or (618) 977-3415.
I have another question that isn’t listed. How do I contact you?
Email us anytime at events@ilforestry.org. Don’t hesitate to reach out!
If you have questions about the conference, registration, lodging, or anything else, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Email: events@ilforestry.org