Once again in 2025, the ISU Shade Tree Short Course will host an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist exam. STSC participants wishing to take the exam should register online with the ISA (http://www.isa-arbor.com/certification/index.aspx) or call the ISA at 888-472-8733.
Room 250-252
Room 250-252
Registration – 2nd floor lobby, Scheman Building
Tradeshow –1st & 2nd floor lobby Scheman Building
Welcome, Announcements, Special Presentations, Jeff Iles, Iowa State University
One Hundred Ways to Kill a Tree
Jim Flott, Community Forestry Consultants, Inc.
Many urban and suburban trees are subjected to a long list of (mostly) human-induced stress factors including construction injury, poor soils, impervious surfaces, harmful chemicals, poor air quality, competition for nutrients, and misapplied arboriculture treatments. Our American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Standards for Arboriculture are updated every five years, but their recommendations are not always heeded. Unfortunately, some arborists are unaware of the ANSI Standards or they prefer to operate in a sphere of ignorance or disdain for current industry standards. And the result is the perpetuation of misinformation, malpractice, and tree mortality. In this presentation, Jim Flott will share examples and case studies gleaned from his many years working in the horticulture and arboriculture industries.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
Twenty Minutes in the Life OR Death of a Tree
Ronald Zillmer, Legacy-Trees, LLC
Plant pathogens causing Chestnut Blight, Dutch Elm Disease, and insect pests like the Emerald Ash Borer have devastated our urban forests, but these biotic stressors were specific to individual tree species. Deep planting and compromised root systems, however, cause early mortality for all species of trees. In this session, Ron Zillmer will discuss root system physiology, proper root system orientation, proper tree planting techniques, and introduce a new way of growing trees that results in the creation of a large, horizontal root system, just like the root systems of trees growing in a forest environment.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5) ; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
Boxed Lunch at Scheman
Visit INLA Trade Show, 1st and 2nd floor lobby – Scheman
INLA Business Meeting – Scheman
IAA Business Meeting – Scheman
A-1. There is More Bite to the Bark Than You Think
Jim Flott, Community Forestry Consultants, Inc., Spokane, WA
Bark is analogous to the skin of a tree and its integrity is critical for normal stem function and tree resistance to pathogens. Yet most only consider the outer bark which is mostly dead tissue. In this workshop presentation, Jim will discuss bark structure, function, and describe its essential role in compartmentalization and the prevention of damage to trees.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
A-2. (C-2 Repeat) Epicormic Sprouting: Prune Response Growth and Cycle Busters*
Liz Westberg, Growth Solutions, Minnetonka, MN
Epicormic buds begin to sprout shortly after tree pruning is completed. In this presentation, Liz will lead you through the science behind regrowth and describe “cycle busting” methods, including chemical options and good pruning practices that can be used to minimize aggressive resprouting. While aimed at utility arboriculture, these practices can be applied to any structural pruning effort.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), U, M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
A-3. (D-3 Repeat) Agroforestry for the Urban and Peri-urban Landscape
Jenn Ripp, Savanna Institute, Madison, WI
Agroforestry is a collection of integrated, multi-purpose, and practical approaches to getting more productive trees on the landscape. Many agroforestry tree crops are nearly identical to common landscaping options, but ongoing maintenance, education, and harvest are often overlooked. In this presentation Jenn will focus on the use of windbreaks, species selection, and ongoing maintenance support to improve the quality of life in your community through edible perennial plants in urban and peri-urban settings.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
A-4. (C-4 Repeat) What Happens When 14 Arborists Appraise the Same 10 Trees?
James Komen, Class One Arboriculture, Inc., Glendale, CA
In a study published in Arboriculture & Urban Forestry, 14 certified arborists independently appraised the same ten trees, and the results of their appraisals were analyzed. The study also identified four key elements of error involved in the appraisal process: personal value error, personal observation error, measurement error, and systematic error. In this presentation, James will discuss each of these elements of error, accompanied by recommendations for helping you reduce appraisal error in the field.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bp(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
A-5. (D-5 Repeat) Diagnosing Health Problems of Woody Plants*
(2 hours) – Limit 30 per session
Zach Schumm and Ed Zaworski, Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Mark Vitosh, Iowa DNR District Forester, Iowa City, IA
This 2-hour, hands-on workshop covers woody plant problems caused by insects, plant pathogens, and several abiotic factors. Participants will become familiar with the steps of the diagnostic process, the differences between symptoms and signs, and learn management recommendations for problems selected for investigation. At 15 stations positioned around the room, participants will examine and diagnose current issues, invasive insects and diseases, and a few old favorites. Seating is limited, so sign up early for this one!
2 ISA CEUs Categories: A, T(1), M, Bp(1), Bs(1); LA CES (2.0 HSW)
A-6. (D-6 Repeat) The Art and Mystery of Personnel Management
Amanda Snodgrass, USDA Rural Development Agency, Mount Pleasant, IA
Personnel management is one of the most challenging aspects of any workplace, but it is essential to a successful and high-functioning team. With diverse experiences and backgrounds, navigating the realms of accountability, expectations, and performance can be as much a mystery as it is an art. Join Amanda to unravel the wild world of leadership through storytelling, reflection, and critical thinking. Using real world examples, we will laugh (and possibly cry) as we navigate strategies for critically addressing personnel management challenges as both a leader and as a teammate, develop strategies for tackling difficult interpersonal situations, and discuss leadership theories that can be applied to a multitude of situations to help forge and maintain effective work relationships.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)
B-1. Conifers in the Midwest: Past, Present, and Future*
Chad Rigsby, Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories, Lisle, IL
Part formal presentation and part informal discussion, Chad will focus on conifers, their common pest, disease, and abiotic stress issues, suggest remedies, and offer a glimpse into what the future holds for conifers in the Midwest. Sign up for this session and learn about alternative conifer species for use in Midwestern landscapes.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
B-2. (E-2 Repeat) Sakura in the City: Washington D.C.’s Cherry Trees
Mike Litterst, National Park Service, Washington, DC
Washington D.C.’s cherry trees are a beloved symbol of spring and international friendship. Gifted by Japan in 1912, these stunning trees bloom each spring attracting millions of visitors from around the world to our nation’s capital. The blossoms, with their delicate pink and white petals, represent the beauty of nature and enduring bond between two nations. In his presentation, Mike will explore the history of cherry trees, their cultural significance, and describe how the National Park Service cares for one of our nation’s oldest international gifts of friendship.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bm(0.5), Bp(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
B-3. (C-3 Repeat) The Development and Selection of New and Better Trees
Jim Donohoe, J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co., Boring, OR
In this presentation, Jim will describe the tree breeding and selection process at J. Frank Schmidt, highlighting the discovery of superior trees from wild environments, landscapes, and nurseries. Jim will cover controlled breeding, open pollination, and the stringent trialing process that selects for pest resistance, acceptable growth, climate adaptability, and tolerance to urban conditions. The process also includes rigorous field trials, data collection, and collaboration with researchers to ensure the best cultivars are selected and introduced to the nursery market.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
B-4. (D-4 Repeat) Largest and Tallest Trees of Iowa: Part 2
Mark Rouw, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Des Moines, IA
If there are several trees of comparable size, how do you determine which tree is the largest? If a tree grows on a slope, where do you measure the trunk circumference? And how do you determine the height of a tree without climbing to the top? Sign up for this session and learn answers to these questions and see photographs of some of Iowa’s largest trees. Participants also will enjoy hearing interesting stories associated with some of our state champions.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
B-6. (F-6 Repeat) What Makes an Effective Turfgrass Weed Control Program?**
Evan Alderman, Iowa State University, Ames, IA
In this workshop Evan will describe the steps involved in building an effective turfgrass weed control program. Emphasis will be placed on developing a program to address some of Iowa’s most common and troublesome turfgrass weeds. Participants also will learn about the different types of herbicides that can be used to control turfgrass weeds.
No ISA CEU; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
B-7. (F-7 Repeat) A Day in the Life of a Nursery Inspector
John Pattee, ProAg, Calamus, IA
In this workshop, John will delve into the intricacies of nursery insurance. He will discuss eligibility criteria, the types of nurseries covered, and specific insurance requirements. The impact of inspections, including potential consequences of negative findings, also will be explored. John also will cover how weather events and inventory losses affect insurance coverage and the claims process and clarify instances where nursery inspectors can seek professional advice.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, Bm; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)
C-1. Climate Change and Oak Management*
Chad Rigsby, Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories, Lisle, IL
In this presentation, Chad will discuss the basics of climate change and the impact an unpredictable climate will have on oaks now, and in the future. Participants will learn techniques used in identifying and diagnosing major diseases of oaks in the Midwest and understand the science supporting management recommendations.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bm(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
C-2.(A-2 Repeat) Epicormic Sprouting: Prune Response Growth and Cycle Busters*
Liz Westberg, Growth Solutions, Minnetonka, MN
Epicormic buds begin to sprout shortly after tree pruning is completed. In this presentation, Liz will lead you through the science behind regrowth and describe “cycle busting” methods, including chemical options and good pruning practices that can be used to minimize aggressive resprouting. While aimed at utility arboriculture, these practices can be applied to any structural pruning effort.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), U, M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
C-3. (B-3 Repeat) The Development and Selection of New and Better Trees
Jim Donohoe, J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co., Boring, OR
In this presentation, Jim will describe the tree breeding and selection process at J. Frank Schmidt, highlighting the discovery of superior trees from wild environments, landscapes, and nurseries. Jim will cover controlled breeding, open pollination, and the stringent trialing process that selects for pest resistance, acceptable growth, climate adaptability, and tolerance to urban conditions. The process also includes rigorous field trials, data collection, and collaboration with researchers to ensure the best cultivars are selected and introduced to the nursery market.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
C-4. (A-4 Repeat) What Happens When 14 Arborists Appraise the Same 10 Trees?
James Komen, Class One Arboriculture, Inc., Glendale, CA
In a study published in Arboriculture & Urban Forestry, 14 certified arborists independently appraised the same ten trees, and the results of their appraisals were analyzed. The study also identified four key elements of error involved in the appraisal process: personal value error, personal observation error, measurement error, and systematic error. In this presentation, James will discuss each of these elements of error, accompanied by recommendations for helping you reduce appraisal error in the field.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bp(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
C-5. (G-5 Repeat) Oaks and Herbicide…Oops!*
Scott Carlson, Iowa Arborist Consulting, Eldridge, IA
Long-time friend of the STSC Scott Carlson is back again this year, this time to talk about oaks and the strong suspicion that off-target herbicides are injuring this valuable tree resource. Scott believes “big Ag” and arborists share common goals: bumper crops and healthy trees, and that now is the time for serious conversation. In this presentation, Scott will discuss environmental conditions that lead to herbicide drift, how these products find their way to oak trees, and most importantly, what can be done to prevent the problem.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
C-6. (G-6 Repeat) Continuing Instruction Course for Pesticide Applicators** Limit 50 per session
Evan Alderman, Iowa State University, Ames, IA
This workshop will be a part of the continuing instruction course (CIC) for pesticide applicators looking for recertification in 2025. This required session will present information on pesticide use and the environment, as well as pesticide labels and comprehension, including REI’s and PHI’s. This Continuing Instruction Course will be approved by The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship for categories 2, 3O, and 3OT. You will be required to attend other qualifying sessions to receive recertification credit at the Shade Tree Short Course.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, U, M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5)
Reiman Gardens
*Qualifying Pesticide Applicator Workshop
**Required Pesticide Applicator Workshop
1st and 2nd floor lobby – Scheman
D-1. Native Oak Production for Use on Alkaline Soils
Michael Yanny, JN Plant Selections, LLC, Milwaukee, WI
In this workshop Michael will discuss the many oak species (and hybrids) which are the most appropriate for use in Midwestern managed landscapes, and reveal methods and techniques for propagating, screening, and growing them in nursery settings.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
D-2. The Science Behind Spray Nozzle Charts
Fred Whitford, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
No matter what type of application you are making, and in whatever environment, you can have the best product, the best equipment, the proper pesticide mixture, and a seasoned/certified applicator. But all of that can be thrown off by having the wrong nozzle, a nozzle that is not working properly, or one that is aimed incorrectly. The STSC enthusiastically welcomes Fred Whitford back to Ames for his no-nonsense approach to working smart and safely.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, U, M, Bp; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)
D-3. (A-3 Repeat) Agroforestry for the Urban and Peri-urban Landscape
Jenn Ripp, Savanna Institute, Madison, WI
Agroforestry is a collection of integrated, multi-purpose, and practical approaches to getting more productive trees on the landscape. Many agroforestry tree crops are nearly identical to common landscaping options, but ongoing maintenance, education, and harvest are often overlooked. In this presentation Jenn will focus on the use of windbreaks, species selection, and ongoing maintenance support to improve the quality of life in your community through edible perennial plants in urban and peri-urban settings.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
D-4. (B-4 Repeat) Largest and Tallest Trees of Iowa: Part 2
Mark Rouw, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Des Moines, IA
If there are several trees of comparable size, how do you determine which tree is the largest? If a tree grows on a slope, where do you measure the trunk circumference? And how do you determine the height of a tree without climbing to the top? Sign up for this session and learn answers to these questions and see photographs of some of Iowa’s largest trees. Participants also will enjoy hearing interesting stories associated with some of our state champions.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
D-5. (A-5 Repeat) Diagnosing Health Problems of Woody Plants* (2 hours) – Limit 30 per session
Zach Schumm and Ed Zaworski, Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Mark Vitosh, Iowa DNR District Forester, Iowa City, IA
This 2-hour, hands-on workshop covers woody plant problems caused by insects, plant pathogens, and several abiotic factors. Participants will become familiar with the steps of the diagnostic process, the differences between symptoms and signs, and learn management recommendations for problems selected for investigation. At 15 stations positioned around the room, participants will examine and diagnose current issues, invasive insects and diseases, and a few old favorites. Seating is limited, so sign up early for this one!
2 ISA CEUs Categories: A, T(1), M, Bp(1), Bs(1); LA CES (2.0 HSW)
D-6. (A-6 Repeat) The Art and Mystery of Personnel Management
Amanda Snodgrass, USDA Rural Development Agency, Mount Pleasant, IA
Personnel management is one of the most challenging aspects of any workplace, but it is essential to a successful and high-functioning team. With diverse experiences and backgrounds, navigating the realms of accountability, expectations, and performance can be as much a mystery as it is an art. Join Amanda to unravel the wild world of leadership through storytelling, reflection, and critical thinking. Using real world examples, we will laugh (and possibly cry) as we navigate strategies for critically addressing personnel management challenges as both a leader and as a teammate, develop strategies for tackling difficult interpersonal situations, and discuss leadership theories that can be applied to a multitude of situations to help forge and maintain effective work relationships.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)
D-7. (G-7 Repeat) Tree Trenches and Plant Box Updates to the Iowa Stormwater Management Manual
Grant Thompson and Gregory Pierce, RDG Planning & Design, Des Moines, IA
In this session, Grant and Gregory will present updates to the tree trench and planter box sections of the Iowa Stormwater Management Manual (ISWMM) that is assembled by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to provide guidance to local jurisdictions that adopt policies for stormwater management. Background for the updates, engineering and accessibility considerations, and soil volume sizing will be presented.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bp(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
E-1. (G-1 Repeat) The Science of Tree Growth Regulators*
Liz Westberg, Growth Solutions, Minnetonka, MN
Paclobutrazol, one of the most commonly used active ingredients in tree growth regulators (TGR) will be the focus of this talk. Participants will learn how this product affects trees on a cellular level, which plant hormones are activated, and how tree response is expressed in the tree canopy. Don’t worry, there won’t be a quiz. But you will see firsthand how these chemical tools work and how they are used in the tree care industry.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), U, M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
E-2. (B-2 Repeat) Sakura in the City: Washington D.C.’s Cherry Trees
Mike Litterst, National Park Service, Washington, DC
Washington D.C.’s cherry trees are a beloved symbol of spring and international friendship. Gifted by Japan in 1912, these stunning trees bloom each spring attracting millions of visitors from around the world to our nation’s capital. The blossoms, with their delicate pink and white petals, represent the beauty of nature and enduring bond between two nations. In his presentation, Mike will explore the history of cherry trees, their cultural significance, and describe how the National Park Service cares for one of our nation’s oldest international gifts of friendship.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bm(0.5), Bp(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
E-3. Evolved to Thrive: An Ecologist’s Guide to Living, with Lessons from a Time He Almost Didn’t
Chris Lee, Des Moines County Conservation, Des Moines, IA
In this edge-of-your-seat presentation, Chris (ISU alum, 2005) will discuss practical strategies rooted in universal truths found in the natural world that you can use to build not just a “good enough” life, but one in which you feel like you’re truly thriving. This is NOT a presentation about how to become wealthy, professionally successful, or find “happiness” in the shallow things modern society wants to sell us. Instead, this is a brutally honest talk about what it means to truly live a good life, based on what he has learned since a near suicide attempt in his senior year of college.
No ISA CEUs; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)
E-4. (F-4 Repeat) Who Owns a Boundary Tree?
James Komen, Class One Arboriculture, Inc., Glendale, CA
When a landowner wants to cut down a boundary tree, but his neighbor wants the tree to stay, both landowners want to claim some ownership and control over it. However, when a tree on a property line causes problems like root intrusion or branch failure, neither wants to claim ownership. How are tree ownership questions resolved? Though deceptively simple and mundane, case law among the states varies significantly in nuance and application. In this talk, James will present a sampling of several cases from around the United States to illustrate the divergence in the law.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
E-6. (F-5 Repeat) The Healthy Trees Healthy Cities App: Streamlining Tree Care with Mapping, Assessment, and Data Tracking
Richard Hallett, US Forest Service, Bayside, NY
In this workshop, Richard will highlight how the free Healthy Trees Healthy Cities (HTHC) app can simplify and enhance tree care management. Designed for professionals and community stewards alike, the app offers powerful tools for tracking tree health, care activities, and pest detection. You’ll learn how to set up projects through the web dashboard, utilize modules like Health Check, and apply real-time data for informed decisions. Success stories from the field demonstrate how scientists and civic ecologists have used the app to improve urban forest health and efficiency, making it a valuable tool for your practice.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bp(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
E.7 (G-2 Repeat) An Overview of the Iowa Arboretum and Gardens Perennial and Shrub Trial Program
David McKinney, Iowa Arboretum & Gardens, Madrid, IA
A new herbaceous perennial and shrub trial program was recently created to provide resources and expertise for growers, retailers, and consumers in Iowa. In this session David McKinney, Curator of Collections and Grounds at the Iowa Arboretum, will discuss the background and goals of the program and highlight a few of the more interesting plants under observation. If you want to learn more about the results of the program and how to become involved, you’ve come to the right place.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
F-1. Opportunistic Plant Selection
Michael Yanny, JN Plant Selections, LLC, Milwaukee, WI
In this workshop Michael Yanny, one of the best storytellers in the business, will describe how he found many of the plants that later became some of his best introductions. He also will offer a glimpse into how he is creating exciting new opportunities for future plant selection and introduction.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
F-2. Do Pesticide Products Get Old and Less Efficacious?
Fred Whitford, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
With the high costs associated with purchasing, applying, and disposing of pesticides, it’s important to make sure these products are stored correctly and that your inventory is managed to move pesticides in and out quickly. In this workshop Fred will discuss guidelines that can help better manage your inventory of pesticide products. By better managing your product inventory you will no longer have to ask, “is this product on my shelf still good?”
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, U, M, Bm(0.5), Bs(0.5) ; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
F-3. (G-4 Repeat) Will My Plants Survive? How Woody Plants Respond to Temperature Variation During Dormancy
Randall Vos, ISU Extension Field Specialist, Knoxville, IA
Have you ever wondered how plants know when to commence growth in the spring? Chilling hours is a concept that suggests dormant plants have an internal clock that prevents them from de-acclimating in winter or early spring until a chilling requirement is met. The number of chilling hours will vary with region, and more northerly regions don’t necessarily have a greater number of chilling hours than regions to the south. In this workshop, Randall will review the concepts of hardiness, chilling hours, and dormancy, and challenge the assumption that cold hardiness is the main factor in determining woody plant adaptation for a particular region.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
F-4. (E-4 Repeat) Who Owns a Boundary Tree?
James Komen, Class One Arboriculture, Inc., Glendale, CA
When a landowner wants to cut down a boundary tree, but his neighbor wants the tree to stay, both landowners want to claim some ownership and control over it. However, when a tree on a property line causes problems like root intrusion or branch failure, neither wants to claim ownership. How are tree ownership questions resolved? Though deceptively simple and mundane, case law among the states varies significantly in nuance and application. In this talk, James will present a sampling of several cases from around the United States to illustrate the divergence in the law.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
F-5. (E-6 Repeat) The Healthy Trees Healthy Cities App: Streamlining Tree Care with Mapping, Assessment, and Data Tracking
Richard Hallett, US Forest Service, Bayside, NY
In this workshop, Richard will highlight how the free Healthy Trees Healthy Cities (HTHC) app can simplify and enhance tree care management. Designed for professionals and community stewards alike, the app offers powerful tools for tracking tree health, care activities, and pest detection. You’ll learn how to set up projects through the web dashboard, utilize modules like Health Check, and apply real-time data for informed decisions. Success stories from the field demonstrate how scientists and civic ecologists have used the app to improve urban forest health and efficiency, making it a valuable tool for your practice.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bp(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
F-6. (B-6 Repeat) What Makes an Effective Turfgrass Weed Control Program?**
Evan Alderman, Iowa State University, Ames, IA
In this workshop Evan will describe the steps involved in building an effective turfgrass weed control program. Emphasis will be placed on developing a program to address some of Iowa’s most common and troublesome turfgrass weeds. Participants also will learn about the different types of herbicides that can be used to control turfgrass weeds.
No ISA CEU; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
F-7. (B-7 Repeat) A Day in the Life of a Nursery Inspector
John Pattee, ProAg, Calamus, IA
In this workshop, John will delve into the intricacies of nursery insurance. He will discuss eligibility criteria, the types of nurseries covered, and specific insurance requirements. The impact of inspections, including potential consequences of negative findings, also will be explored. John also will cover how weather events and inventory losses affect insurance coverage and the claims process and clarify instances where nursery inspectors can seek professional advice.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, Bm; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)
Trade Show Open for Final Time!
G-1. (E-1 Repeat) The Science of Tree Growth Regulators*
Liz Westberg, Growth Solutions, Minnetonka, MN
Paclobutrazol, one of the most commonly used active ingredients in tree growth regulators (TGR) will be the focus of this talk. Participants will learn how this product affects trees on a cellular level, which plant hormones are activated, and how tree response is expressed in the tree canopy. Don’t worry, there won’t be a quiz. But you will see firsthand how these chemical tools work and how they are used in the tree care industry.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), U, M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
G-2 (E-7 Repeat) An Overview of the Iowa Arboretum and Gardens Perennial and Shrub Trial Program
David McKinney, Iowa Arboretum & Gardens, Madrid, IA
A new herbaceous perennial and shrub trial program was recently created to provide resources and expertise for growers, retailers, and consumers in Iowa. In this session David McKinney, Curator of Collections and Grounds at the Iowa Arboretum, will discuss the background and goals of the program and highlight a few of the more interesting plants under observation. If you want to learn more about the results of the program and how to become involved, you’ve come to the right place.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
G-3. Take This Job and Love It! An Ecologist’s Guide to Creating Great Workplaces
Chris Lee, Des Moines County Conservation, Des Moines, IA
Most of us went into our professions to make a difference in the world. But the day-to-day grind can wear you out, drag you down, and make you wonder whether you made the right choice. In this inspiring and motivating presentation, Chris taps into core principles found in the natural world to reenergize you and your team. He will share actionable strategies, not just short-term hacks, for creating the type of workplace you and your team can look forward to joining every day.
No ISA CEUs; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)
G-4. (F-3 Repeat) Will My Plants Survive? How Woody Plants Respond to Temperature Variation During Dormancy
Randall Vos, ISU Extension Field Specialist, Knoxville, IA
Have you ever wondered how plants know when to commence growth in the spring? Chilling hours is a concept that suggests dormant plants have an internal clock that prevents them from de-acclimating in winter or early spring until a chilling requirement is met. The number of chilling hours will vary with region, and more northerly regions don’t necessarily have a greater number of chilling hours than regions to the south. In this workshop, Randall will review the concepts of hardiness, chilling hours, and dormancy, and challenge the assumption that cold hardiness is the main factor in determining woody plant adaptation for a particular region.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
G-5. (C-5 Repeat) Oaks and Herbicide…Oops!*
Scott Carlson, Iowa Arborist Consulting, Eldridge, IA
Long-time friend of the STSC Scott Carlson is back again this year, this time to talk about oaks and the strong suspicion that off-target herbicides are injuring this valuable tree resource. Scott believes “big Ag” and arborists share common goals: bumper crops and healthy trees, and that now is the time for serious conversation. In this presentation, Scott will discuss environmental conditions that lead to herbicide drift, how these products find their way to oak trees, and most importantly, what can be done to prevent the problem.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, T(0.5), M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
G-6. (C-6 Repeat) Continuing Instruction Course for Pesticide Applicators** Limit 50 per session
Evan Alderman, Iowa State University, Ames, IA
This workshop will be a part of the continuing instruction course (CIC) for pesticide applicators looking for recertification in 2025. This required session will present information on pesticide use and the environment, as well as pesticide labels and comprehension, including REI’s and PHI’s. This Continuing Instruction Course will be approved by The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship for categories 2, 3O, and 3OT. You will be required to attend other qualifying sessions to receive recertification credit at the Shade Tree Short Course.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, U, M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5)
G-7. (D-7 Repeat) Tree Trenches and Plant Box Updates to the Iowa Stormwater Management Manual
Grant Thompson and Gregory Pierce, RDG Planning & Design, Des Moines, IA
In this session, Grant and Gregory will present updates to the tree trench and planter box sections of the Iowa Stormwater Management Manual (ISWMM) that is assembled by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to provide guidance to local jurisdictions that adopt policies for stormwater management. Background for the updates, engineering and accessibility considerations, and soil volume sizing will be presented.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bp(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)
Changing Urban Tree Choices for a Changing Climate: A Midwest Perspective
David Stevens, Longenecker Horticultural Gardens
As our climate warms, weather patterns become more erratic, and new disease and pest concerns negatively impact our native tree species, we must reevaluate our urban tree choices in an effort to maintain a sustainable tree canopy. Native tree species will always have a place in the urban forest, but we need to look for additional species to compliment them. Species that are adapted to our changing climate without becoming invasive. This may mean using tree species native to other regions of the country or the world. In this closing session David Stevens will present a range of new species options to consider.
1 ISA CEU Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bp(0.5) ; LA CES (1.0 HSW)
Adjourn
*Qualifying Pesticide Applicator Workshop
**Required Pesticide Applicator Workshop