UNH scientists to present research at Farm and Forest Expo

How did the state’s trees fare during the 2016 New England drought? What can we learn from a solitary wasp that hunts down an invasive pest decimating the state’s ash trees? What is the value of promoting locally grown foods at farmers’ markets? University of New Hampshire researchers will present their latest research on these topics and more at the 2017 New Hampshire Farm and Forest Expo.

Scientists with the NH Agricultural Experiment Station and UNH College of Life Sciences and Agriculture will discuss a wide variety of research at the expo from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17, 2017. The education sessions “Beetle Bandits, Bats and Bees” will be held in the Stark Room.

“Education workshops at the expo are offered each year to bring together the state's subject matter experts to share the latest research as well as their expertise with our expo attendees," said Tori Berube, 2017 NH Farm and Forest Expo manager. “The research UNH scientists will share during this expo workshop will undoubtedly help those working in the forestry and agriculture fields in New Hampshire make informed decisions about their own business.”

In the farm session, researchers will discuss the value of the local label in farmers’ market; New Hampshire’s native bee species, which are important pollinators for fruits and vegetables; strategies to establish long-term pollinator habitats; and field peas and alternative forages that provide new approaches to improve the economic and environmental sustainability for New England dairies. This session will be of interest to farmers and producers, agricultural land managers, and enthusiasts of local food.

Attendees interested in forest resource management will learn about drought impacts on forest growth; the use of the Smoky Winged Beetle Bandit, a solitary wasp, to locate Emerald Ash Borer populations in the state’s forests; and the favorite foods of bat populations in our forests and how bats help manage insect populations. This session is ideal for foresters, wildlife managers, and those who enjoy the Great North Woods.

For more information:
colsa.unh.edu
www.nhfarmandforestexpo.org