The Chronicle

The Washington State University Extension is taking registrations from residents of Southwest Washington for an online forest stewardship program.

Classes take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., except for the first class, which will end at 9:30 p.m. on Tuesdays from Jan. 28, 2020 to March 17, with a field trip on March 7.

“Natural beauty, wildlife, ecosystem health, harvest income, family ties, privacy, and peace and quiet are some of the many reasons people value their forestland,” according to a news release from WSU Extension’s forestry program. “Whatever your values are, this comprehensive university-based forestry class will help you get the most out of the land you love. Whether you have just a few wooded acres or a larger forest tract, if you have trees on your property, this class is for you.”

The classes coach landowners on the process of writing a forest-management plan for their property. A management plan is necessary to access resources for small forest landowners, including reduced property taxes, cost-share assistance programs and becoming a Department of Natural Resources certified stewardship forest.

The course costs $220 per household and includes seven live webinars. Space is limited.

A high-speed internet connection is necessary for the program. For more information, go to forestry.wsu.edu or contact Patrick Shutls at 360-740-1213 or patrick.shults@wsu.edu.