By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Forestry Association (IFA) announces its 18th Annual Conference, set for September 21–23, 2023, at the 4-H Memorial Camp in Monticello, Illinois, next to Allerton Park. The event offers three days of educational sessions, field tours, and opportunities to connect with others who care about forests and conservation.
“This September, join the Illinois Forestry Association for our 18th Annual Conference! This year, we will be holding this event at the Memorial 4-H Camp in Monticello, Illinois. This site is conveniently located next to Allerton Park.
This event will include lectures on various forest-related topics, and guided activities and tours. Whether you own forestland, manage forest, or simply want to learn more about forests, this is the right event for you!”
The conference begins Thursday, September 21, with early arrival and a social gathering from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m., featuring registration, a silent auction, and informal fireside forestry chats.
On Friday, September 22, a full day of activities includes lectures and hands-on sessions. Topics range from timber harvest practices and invasive plant identification to edible mushrooms and tree identification walks. Afternoon sessions offer indoor and outdoor options, such as a two-part agroforestry tour and an Alaska chainsaw mill demonstration. The day ends with the annual business meeting and the close of the silent auction.
The conference concludes Saturday, September 23, with a morning field tour of Allerton Park, running from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., allowing attendees to experience forest management practices in action.
Registration costs $40, with the option to pay online or in person. Rustic cabins and tent camping are available at the camp for an additional $20 per night, while nearby hotels and retreat centers provide other lodging choices.
This annual event offers a comprehensive introduction to forest management and conservation, welcoming anyone interested in learning about Illinois forests and connecting with forestry professionals and nature enthusiasts.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-alotofpeople
Categories: Illinois, Education