UI Extension offers forestry course

Many Idaho forest landowners want a better idea of how to manage their forest properties.

Thanks to an upcoming Forestry Shortcourse, they can learn how to do just that. The course, set to start Oct. 31, will offer information on how forests grow and how property owners can better manage their forest property to meet their goals. 

The course is especially helpful as forest landowners often must demonstrate planned, active forest management to qualify for lower forestry property tax rates and cost-share assistance for management activities such as thinning.

The six-session program will include information on forest ecology, silviculture, forest health, wildlife habitat and other forestry topics. Natural resource professionals will coach participants on developing a management plan for their forest.

The Forestry Shortcourse will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Oct. 31, Nov. 6, 14, 21, and Dec. 5, 12, at the University of Idaho Sandpoint Organic Agriculture Center, 10881 N. Boyer Road. The $38 registration fee includes a binder of forest stewardship resource materials, including a USB flash drive with more than 120 extension publications.

To ensure an effective learning environment, the program is limited to 25 people. Those wishing to participate should register by Thursday, Oct. 24, at the University of Idaho Extension office in Bonner County, 208-263-8511. To register online, visit marketplace.uidaho.edu and click on "University of Idaho Extension: Panhandle Forestry." Registration forms can also be downloaded at uidaho.edu/extension/forestry/programs under "Strengthening Forest Stewardship Skills."

The program is eligible for two Idaho pesticide recertification credits. Teachers can also receive two University of Idaho credits for $120.

Information: Chris Schnepf, 208-292-1288