EVERETT, Wash. – The security and tranquility of rural living can be shattered in an instant for those who fall victim to vandalism, crime, or wildfire. As cities move closer to the country forest landowners face growing problems with trespass, illegal dumping, meth labs, and timber theft. There are also natural hazards to living in a forested area, with wildfire ranking as a top concern. Fortunately, there are several practical steps landowners can take to secure their homes and families from these threats.
Washington State University Snohomish County Extension will present two workshops addressing forest security and wildfire protection and prevention, one on Monday, Oct. 6, and the other on Monday, Oct. 20.
The Oct. 6 workshop will focus on security, teaching landowners practical steps to help prevent crime and vandalism. Many forest owners aren’t aware of the steps they can take to make their lands more secure, according to WSU Extension Forester Kevin Zobrist who will conduct the workshops.
“There are a number of things you can do to make your property less of a target as well as to help officials investigate when a crime does occur,” Zobrist said. “For example, most people aren’t aware that you should have a no-trespass letter on file with the sheriff’s office to help pursue violators.”
The second workshop on Oct. 20 will help landowners learn how to minimize their exposure to wildfire. Workshop participants will learn about fire ecology and practical steps that can be taken to minimize risk to both their forests and their homes.
“When the fire is coming over the ridge is not the time to start questioning whether firefighters have a reasonable chance of saving your home—these are the questions landowners should be asking now,” Zobrist said.
Both workshops are from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Snohomish County Extension Cougar Auditorium, 600 128th Street S.E., Everett. The cost before September 15 is $25 for one workshop or $40 for both. After September 15 the cost increases to $30 for one and $50 for both.
For more information and to register, contact Kevin Zobrist at (425) 357-6017, email kzobrist@wsu.edu, or visit http://snohomish.wsu.edu/forestry/forestryevents.htm.
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