September 5 – November 14, 2023

Registration for the fall session of our “The Woods in Your Backyard” online course is now open! Our self-directed, non-credit course runs 10 weeks from September 5th to November 14th. The online format lets you access the content when it’s convenient for you, without worrying about attending evening classes or weekend workshops. The course will help landowners convert lawn to natural areas and enhance stewardship of existing natural areas. Based on the guide of the same name, the course provides strategies to landowners and managers of small parcels of land that improve the stewardship of their property for personal enjoyment and environmental quality. It uses a hands-on learning approach to help participants develop and implement a plan for their property. Activities include how to map habitat areas, understand basic ecological principles about woodland and wildlife, choose and implement a few habitat management projects, and how to set a timetable and record your progress. Online discussion groups will allow participants to interact with others taking the course. A certificate of completion is awarded when all assignments are completed.

The course costs $95.00 per person, which includes the 108-page “Woods In Your Backyard” guide, workbook, and a tree identification guide. The course is limited to 25 participants, so sign up now! For more information, go to https://go.umd.edu/the_course. To register through Eventbrite, go to https://WIYB-fall23.eventbrite.com. Registration closes September 5th or when the course is filled.