Forest measurements class to set for Sept. 2

Good decisions require good information on a forest; whether determining how much to thin or what species, preparing for a timber sale, or managing for other values. Some forest owners like to make these decisions intuitively. But careful measurements can often illuminate misconceptions about a forest developed from casual observations.

A University of Idaho Extension program titled “Measuring Your Trees” is designed to give forest owners a basic understanding of forest measurements. It also will help them collect some of their own data and strengthen their interactions with professional foresters and technicians regarding data-based forest management decisions.

The morning will be spent indoors, focusing on principles guiding measurement of trees and forests. The afternoon will be spent outdoors, measuring a variety of forest characteristics using clinometers, diameter tapes, angle gauges, and other forest measurement tools.

“Measuring Your Trees” will be held in Sandpoint, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 2, 2021, beginning at the University of Idaho Sandpoint Organic Agriculture Center, located at 10881 N Boyer Road, north of Sandpoint. The program can accommodate up to 30 people. Participants should pre-register by Friday, August 27 to ensure their place. Registration forms are available at local University of Idaho Extension Offices or can be downloaded at uidaho.edu/extension/forestry. A $20 registration fee covers a field notebook of publications and refreshments.

Depending on COVID status that day, this program may be set up for physical distancing and masks may be required, per University of Idaho policy. “Measuring Your Trees” is an Idaho Forest Stewardship program, co-sponsored by University of Idaho Extension, the Idaho Department of Lands, and many other agencies and organizations. For questions on the program, contact Chris Schnepf, 208-292-2525.