Minnesotans weigh in on Extension forestry education

In October 2020, the University of Minnesota Extension Forestry team gathered responses to an educational program  survey. The results are now published in a new report, Educational needs assessment of tree and woodland programs in Minnesota.

Naturalists, gardeners, woodland owners and natural resource professionals were sent the survey, and 314 current and potential forestry program participants responded. 

The most popular educational topics identified in the survey:

• Woodland management
• Wildlife
• Tree and plant identification

Not surprisingly, respondents preferred virtual learning formats during the COVID-19 pandemic. When asked about learning preferences after the COVID-19 pandemic ends, the most preferred class format was a field day.

These findings will help U of M Extension develop future tree and woodland educational programs in Minnesota. The survey also revealed opportunities for new programs focused around topics such as managing woodlands for wildlife, the history of Minnesota forests, and the impacts of climate change on Minnesota forests.