March 10, 2008

Workshop set for landowners interested in conservation

The first session will be 6-9 p.m. April 17 at the Purdue University Whitley County 4-H Center. The second part will be 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 19 at the Purdue Harrold Forest in Etna, Ind.

"This program will help participants whether they are new to rural life or are simply interested in improving woodlands, grasslands or wetlands on their property," said Brian MacGowan, Purdue Extension wildlife specialist.

The first part of the workshop will introduce participants to the terminology and management techniques that are needed. MacGowan will lead a session that is an introduction to wildlife and habitats, which will include the basic requirements of wildlife, management concepts, the four basic habitat components for wildlife and how to increase value of your property for wildlife.

Purdue forester Don Carlson will lead a session on woodlot and wetland management. This will include basic woodland management concepts, how woodlands function and how to approach a property resource management plan.

The second part of the workshop will provide participants with many examples of what types of management practices and techniques they can consider for their property.

"The second day will give participants a firsthand look at the topics that were presented on the first night," MacGowan said. "They will be given a tour of the Purdue Harrold Forest and a neighboring private property."

The tour will feature tree plantations, regeneration opening with deer fencing, tile lines, wetlands, and warm season grasses and food plots. There also will be a fire demonstration if conditions are appropriate.

Registration is $10 per person by April 11 and will include refreshments, lunch and workshop materials.

The Purdue Extension Whitley County 4-H Center in Columbia City is located off West Lincolnway between U.S. Highway 30 and old U.S. Highway 30. Harrold Forest is located on County Road 525 W. 750 N., near Etna in northwest Whitley County.

This workshop is sponsored by the Purdue Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Whitley County Soil and Water Conservation District, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Purdue Extension Whitley County, Wood-Land-Lakes RC&D and Merry Lea Environmental Center of Goshen College.

Writer: Elizabeth Fritz, (765) 494-8402, elfritz@purdue.edu

Source: Brian MacGowan, (765) 647-3538, macgowan@purdue.edu

Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722;
Beth Forbes, forbes@purdue.edu
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