Forest measurements class set for Sandpoint

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 the 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 Wednesday, June 7, beginning at the University of Idaho Sandpoint Organic Agriculture Center, 10881 N. Boyer Road, north of Sandpoint. The program can accommodate up to 30 people. Participants should pre-register by May 31 to ensure their place. Registration forms are available at 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.

“Measuring Your Trees” is an Idaho Forest Stewardship program, co-sponsored by the University of Idaho Extension, the Idaho Department of Lands, and many other agencies and organizations.

Information: Chris Schnepf, 208-292-1288