Forest owners in eastern Washington can gain the skills to best manage their woodlands at the upcoming Hands-On Forest Management Shortcourse, hosted by Washington State University Extension.
The four-day short course is 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Oct. 13-16, at 2716 Moser Road, Chewelah, Washington.
Classes are based in the classroom during the morning with afternoons spent in the field. Topics include forest ecology; how to protect against fire, pests, and environmental challenges; how to prepare for a successful timber harvest; how to enhance wildlife habitat; and more.
“The biggest takeaway from this course is the hands-on skills that landowners gain,” said organizer Joshua Cardin, Extension Forestry Coordinator for eastern Washington. “They aren’t just going to learn from this course; owners are also going to practice this work during class or learn how to apply it to their property effectively. The potential impacts for forests include reducing wildfire risk, supporting the economic stability of forest families, and ensuring healthier, more resilient forests statewide.”
Instructors come from a broad range of backgrounds. The team includes current natural resource specialists from the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, experienced consulting foresters, and retired working professionals. Combined, they bring decades of practical experience managing multiple forest types across Washington, with expertise ranging from silviculture and forest health to timber economics.
The course fee is $100, which includes a daily lunch and access to resources and tools. Register at the course Eventbrite site or visit the WSU Extension Forestry website.
About Extension Forestry
The WSU Extension Forestry program provides objective, research-based education and resources for owners of forested property and the public. Extension experts offer classes, workshops, and field days as well as publications, videos, and online resources to help forest owners achieve their goals.
Contact: Joshua Cardin, WSU Forestry Extension Coordinator, 509-308-8224, joshua.cardin@wsu.edu