SPOKANE, Wash. — Woodland owners manage their land for a variety of reasons, including wildfire safety, recreational use, and revenue from periodic timber harvest. Most find that these objectives are not mutually exclusive.
Washington State University Extension and the state Department of Natural Resources are teaming up to offer Forest Stewardship Coached Planning short-course for woodland owners in Chewelah starting in January.
The course starts on Wednesday, Jan. 26 with classes held every Wednesday through Mar. 16, from 6 to 8:30 pm, at the Chewelah Middle School Library, W. 106 Lincoln Street in Chewelah.
Participants will do their “homework” each week, identifying forest management goals and putting together a forest management plan to achieve them. Completed plans may qualify landowners for cost-share assistance to implement plans, recognition as a “Stewardship Forest” and possibly reduced property tax rates.
The cost for the entire course is $75 per family or ownership and includes course materials, aerial photos and maps. Advance registration is required. Registration forms and additional information are available by going to http://www.spokane-county.wsu.edu and clicking “Forest and Wildlife Resources” or by contacting Erik Sjoquist at 509-477-2175 or at erik.sjoquist@wsu.edu.