Connecting People, Forests, and Knowledge

In this episode of Hort Culture, the hosts sit down with Dr. Eli Sagor, Extension Forestry Specialist and Program Leader for Natural Resources at the University of Minnesota, to discuss forestry, forest management, and the evolving role of Extension education. Dr. Sagor shares how he works with forestry professionals across Minnesota to address real-world challenges through collaborative learning and peer-to-peer knowledge exchange. The conversation explores the impacts of climate change on forest ecosystems, including shifting tree species ranges, invasive pests, and efforts to create climate-resilient woodlands. The group also discusses Minnesota's unique forest landscapes, favorite tree species, and the importance of stewardship in maintaining healthy forests for future generations. Throughout the episode, the hosts and Dr. Sagor reflect on how Extension has evolved from simply providing information to helping people interpret and apply knowledge in an age of information overload, emphasizing the value of trust, conversation, and authentic human connections in education and outreach. Eli Sagor [https://cfc.cfans.umn.edu/people/eli-sagor] Great Lakes Silviculture Library [https://silvlib.cfans.umn.edu/] Cloquet Forestry Center [https://cfc.cfans.umn.edu/] University of Minnesota Extension Natural Resources [https://extension.umn.edu/natural-resources] Sustainable Forests Education Cooperative [https://sfec.cfans.umn.edu/] Minnesota Master Naturalist Program [https://www.minnesotamasternaturalist.org/] University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources [https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/] Kentucky Division of Forestry [https://eec.ky.gov/Natural-Resources/Forestry/Pages/default.aspx] Questions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] Check us out on Instagram! [https://www.instagram.com/hortculturepodcast/]