Field day planned for forest owners

The Chronicle

A field day is being planned Saturday, Aug. 19., for family forest owners and managers in western Washington.

Instructed by the state’s recognized experts in forest management, wildlife habitat and other forest stewardship disciplines, this “out-in-the-woods” educational event will provide information for landowners with 5 or 500 acres. There will be exhibitors, demonstrations and classes throughout the day.

The field day will be held from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Wild Thyme Farm near Oakville.

It is designed to prepare landowners to plan and execute management activities that meet their personal objectives, reduce risks and protect their financial investment. There will also be a special session just for absentee landowners with property in eastern Washington.

Participants can choose from a wide variety of classes and activities taught by specialists in forest health, wildlife habitat, weed control, wildfire protection, timber and non-timber forest products, featuring global positioning systems, chain saw safety and maintenance, forestland security and safety and more.

The presenters will be available to answer questions specific to each person’s property situation, and you can learn how to arrange a complimentary walk-in-the-woods by a professional forester, wildlife biologist, or both. Youth activities will be available all day.

The fee for those who register by Monday, Aug. 14, is $20 per person or $30 for a family of two or more. After that date the fee is $30 per person or $40 per family. An optional barbecue lunch will be available for $10 per person to benefit the FFA. Lunch reservations must be received by Aug. 14.

A brochure with more detailed information, driving directions and the registration form can be found at http://forestry.wsu.edu, or contact the WSU Extension office.

For more information contact WSU Extension Forester Andy Perleberg at 509-667-6540 or by email at andyp@wsu.edu.