Testimonials

Homesteading Family in Phelps Co.- November 2024

"You did a great job for us. You really made the whole family more interested in our woodlands. On walks now, someone always points out something that “Josh talked about in the forest management plan”. I love that our kids are interested in trees, plants, and nature! We will definitely contact you to help us with prescribed burns in the future. We are really excited to start those."

Cheryl Marcum, Cedar Co.- December 2023

"We highly recommend Josh. From the NRCS TSP's, in 2022, we selected Josh. It was our good fortune that he agreed. Josh's holistic ecological approach aligned with our values, hopes, and expectations.

He listened to us. We asked him to coach us to mitigate climate crisis, and to set an example to others with similar interests and values. He fully understood, and tailored our Forest Ecology Management Plan to achieve our main objective.

Josh is passionate about forest ecology. We watched him skillfully shoehorn the uncertainties of nature into government-prescribed programs and timelines! He exercised extraordinary patience answering our endless questions throughout the process. Josh's expertise and devotion enables us to be the first in our area to conduct controlled burning for woodland restoration."

Joe Stephens, Boone Co.- December 2024

For our Forest Improvement Plan, Josh provided a thorough and thoughtful proposal after spending significant time listening to my goals and walking our land. The report he provided gave context to every aspect of our farm, including topography, soil composition, and biodiversity, as well as historical information about the area and how the plan can return it closer to that state over time. I was impressed by his holistic knowledge and obvious passion for the woods.

As we go into implementation, I'm excited to watch the progress over the life of our plan and beyond.

Common Services Offered:

Invasive Species Control

Consulting to control Invasive Species using organic no-spray methods.

Forest Management Plan

Provides detailed survey of existing conditions and clear, practical steps for improving the health and vitality of the forested ecosystems for wildlife habitat & timber production. These plans are thorough, detailed, & focus on ecological restoration. Clients get a plan when they want to conduct ecological restoration, improve wildlife habitat, and nurture quality timber.

A forest inventory is conducted to collect observations to develop a detailed ecosystem stand map. The forest inventory is developed into a Forest Management Plan (FMP).

The FMP provides interpretations of detailed statistics & maps indicating locations & conditions of forest ecosystems & unique features. Strategies like controlled burning, planting native wildflowers, forest thinning, edge feathering, installing wildlife watering holes, etc. are included as guides specifically tailored to your goals and current conditions. Tailored guidance for how to nurture woodland & forest ecosystems to health, resilience, and high biodiversity on your property.

FMP's are developed for the NRCS EQIP. Contract items CAP106 and DIA165.

Customizable plans & surveys are available.

Burn Plan Development

A guide to lead you to confidence for conducting controlled burning on your property. Burn plans include detailed maps, details for staff, equipment, & weather, and instructions for safely & successfully conducting a controlled burn on designated acreage.

Certified TSP with the NRCS EQIP to develop burn plans. Contract item DIA160.

Plant Health

Diagnose & address plant health issues.

Soil Rehabilitation

Improve soil health. Urban. Farm and Rural.

Road & Trail Development

Consulting for trail maintenance & new trail development.

Gardening

Improve health & productivity of home gardens, permaculture, forest gardens, etc.

Training

Support for individuals and groups wanting to learn how to do ecosystem restoration work such as treating invasive species, develop firelines, conduct controlled burning, run a chainsaw safely, conduct forest thinning, maintain roads and trails, identify plants and soils, establish mushroom logs, install wildlife water holes, cultivate forest gardens, optimize wildlife habitat, etc.

Workshops & Presentations

Provided to hosting groups to teach the science and tending of Missouri's Forests & Woodlands.

Guided Nature Excursions

Great for grounding quickly into the local landscape. Provided to individuals & groups seeking to learn about the ecology and history of local geology, soils, flora, & fauna.

Whether you are a local wanting to learn more about home or a visitor interested in getting to know the local ecology, an expert guide can assist.

Therapeutic Sessions & Retreats

Personal guidance for individuals & groups seeking a connection with nature.