In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, recovery occurs as opportunities are explored and future preparations from the experience are planned.
This one-day workshop at the Asheville Botanical Gardens will cover best practices for processing storm-damaged timber into useful wood products. Experts will present key topics, including post-storm timber recovery, wood extraction methods, sawmilling, drying, storage, and safety. Hands-on demonstrations and technical discussions will provide practical insights into equipment, safety protocols, and efficiency in wood utilization. We will also examine the wildfire potential resulting from all the downed trees.
Whether you're a landowner, forester, or interested in new business opportunities, this workshop offers essential knowledge for maximizing wood resources. The event will take place on Monday, August 11th, 2025 at the Asheville Botanical Gardens, located at 151 WT Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC 28804. In the afternoon, we will visit a field site to observe a portable sawmill and its operation. The cost for the event is $20 and includes registration, lunch, and snacks. Registration is limited to 30 attendees. Register for this event online
For more information contact Nathan Gatlin, Western Area Agent – Forestry, at npgatlin@ncsu.edu or by calling (336) 651-7330.
The agenda for the workshop is below:Monday, August 11, 2025
08:00 AM - 08:30 AM - Check-In, Coffee & Networking
08:30 AM - 09:00 AM - Welcoming and Introductions
09:00 AM - 09:30 AM - Forests, Trees, Wood
09:30 AM - 10:00 AM - From tree to wood products
10:00 AM - 10:15 AM - Break
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM - Insects, Pests, Calamities
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM - Getting wood out of the forest
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM - The Forest and the Fire
12:00 PM - 01:30 PM - Lunch & Discussion: What can you get out of your forest and how?
01:30 PM - 02:00 PM- Drive to field site
02:00 PM - 04:00 PM - Pile burning and wood processing demonstrations
