Landowners, foresters and conservation professionals have an opportunity to take a deep dive into pollinator ecology, management and habitat restoration during the Pollinator Conservation in Practice workshop on November 18, 2025, at WVU Jackson’s Mill in Weston, West Virginia.
The workshop, hosted by West Virginia University Extension and partners, will explore how forestry, vegetation management and conservation practices can work together to support pollinator health across West Virginia’s working landscapes. Participants will gain practical knowledge on pollinator-friendly management approaches and learn from experts representing WVU Extension, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, the Natural Resource Conservation Service, AllStar Ecology, FirstEnergy and others.
This event highlights an emerging issue that increasingly overlaps with forestry and agricultural management. More and more landowners are using pollinator seed mixes in forest restoration efforts, as well as dedicated plantings to provide pollen and nectar resources for pollinators — a vital component of biodiversity. The workshop aims to bring forestry and conservation professionals together to share science-based approaches and practical experiences that connect pollinator habitat health with sustainable land use.
“Pollinators play a critical role not only in our food systems but also in sustaining native plant communities,” said Sheldon Owen, WVU Extension wildlife specialist. “They are a vital component of our ecosystems, and this workshop will help us learn how to better manage native flowers to promote native pollinators.”
Presentations will cover topics such as pollinator biology and diet, habitat design, native seed production, NRCS cost-share opportunities, and rights-of-way vegetation management. The program concludes with a field demonstration featuring drone-assisted herbicide application for habitat preparation.
“Pollinators are a key part of biodiversity, and more private landowners are beginning to integrate pollinator seed mixes into forest restoration and vegetation management efforts,” said Dave McGill, WVU Extension professor and forest resources management specialist. “This workshop is designed to help both professionals and land stewards understand how to apply these practices effectively on the ground.”
Registration is $15 per person and signups will close on November 1. You can find more information or register for the event online. The workshop offers 5.0 Category 1 Society of American Foresters continuing forestry education credits and WVDA pesticide credits in categories 3-10, 4-10, 6-10, 7-10, 11-10, 12-10, and 16-10. Contact Dave McGill at dmcgill@wvu.edu or 304-293-5930 with any questions.
If you want to learn more about WVU Extension, visit extension.wvu.edu or follow @WVUExtension on Facebook, YouTube, X and Instagram.
-WVU-
Sk/10/21/25
CONTACT: Sydney Keener
Communications Specialist
WVU Division for Land-Grant Engagement
304-293-8986; Sydney.keener@mail.wvu.edu