Annual WSU Family Forest Owner Field Day Expands to Two Days

EVERETT, Wash. – The Washington State University Extension and Washington Department of Natural Resources’ annual Western Washington Family Forest Owners Field Day is expanding to two days this year. The event will feature more than 30 hands-on learning sessions on a variety of forestry topics for all ages and skill levels.

The field day will be held on Friday, July 31, and Saturday, Aug. 1, in the Birdsview area just west of Concrete in Skagit County. The gates will open at noon on Friday with sessions beginning hourly at 1pm through 4 pm. Gates open at 8 am on Saturday with sessions beginning at 9 am. Equipment demonstrations will be presented throughout the day on both days.

Advance registration received before July 24 is $20 per person or $30 for two or more. Registration on the day of the event is $30 per person or $40 for two or more.

A barbeque lunch will be available on Saturday for a cost of $9 each, with proceeds benefiting the Future Farmers of America. You may also dine in nearby Concrete or bring your own lunch.

Among the topics slated for this year’s event are an introduction to forestry for new owners, small forest management, forestry taxes, Shiitake mushroom cultivation, chainsaw safety and maintenance, and a variety of sessions on forest and habitat management. Most sessions will be offered multiple times over the two days.

A brochure and registration form, more details, and a link to the activity schedule can be found at http://snohomish.wsu.edu/forestry/2009FieldDay.htm. The registration form is also available through local Extension offices.

Participants should dress for the weather, wear sturdy footwear, and be prepared to walk short distances in forested terrain.

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