Auburn, Wash. – With an alarming increase in the number of dead trees throughout Pacific Northwest, care for forested areas is critical. Owners of wooded property around the Puget Sound will build skills to steward their land and trees at the Western Washington Forest Owner’s Winter School, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29, at Green River College, in Auburn.
Washington State University Extension and King Conservation District will host the all-day indoor event, which will feature workshops, demonstrations, and resources on a variety of topics for forest property owners of all skill levels (from “newbie” to seasoned veteran). Participants will can choose up to six workshops to attend.
Topics include forest health issues in Western Washington, chainsaw safety and maintenance, wildlife, wildfire prevention, mushroom cultivation on logs, beaver management, invasive weed control, and more. There will also be vendor exhibits and time for participants to network with professionals and fellow forest stewards.
Pre-registration is not required, but those who pre-register will get discounted registration fees and a free lunch. Pre-register before February 20 for an early-bird rate. Youth under 18 may attend for free. There is a special student and Master Gardener rates, call for details.
To learn more, register, and get a complete list of workshop topics, visit the event website or contact WSU Extension Forestry at (425) 357-6023.
Extension programs are available to all without discrimination. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication or program information or reasonable accommodation should contact WSU Extension Forestry at least two weeks before the event.