Connecting People, Forests, and Knowledge

About this episode

The episode features a discussion with Dr. Eli Sagor on forestry, forest management, and the role of Extension education in addressing climate change and promoting stewardship.

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…

People in this episode

Guest: Dr. Eli Sagor

Topics covered

• forestry
• forest management
• climate change
• education
• collaborative learning
• stewardship

Keywords

• forestry
• forest management
• climate change
• Extension education
• peer-to-peer knowledge
• tree species
• stewardship

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: University of Minnesota, University of Minnesota Extension Natural Resources, Great Lakes Silviculture Library, Cloquet Forestry Center, Sustainable Forests Education Cooperative, Minnesota Master Naturalist Program

More episodes of Hort Culture

• Hort Culture Goes Wild: Nature Danger Edition · May 31, 2026 · 48 min
• Growing Appalachia: Building Farms & Community · May 24, 2026 · 46 min
• The Imposter Syndrome Episode · May 17, 2026 · 50 min
• Specialty Cut Flower Workshops & The Experience Economy · May 10, 2026 · 44 min
• Practical Tips for Productive Growing · May 3, 2026 · 50 min
• Grow What You Eat: Realistic Home Food Production · April 26, 2026 · 49 min