MU Extension, partners host free forest and wildlife management workshop

Participants will learn healthy management practices for different land types.

University of Missouri Extension and partners invite the public to a free forest and wildlife management workshop Sept. 9 in Callaway County.

The workshop will be at the property of Bill and Margie Haag, 8801 Little Tavern Creek Road, Portland, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

“The Haags actively manage their forests for wildlife and income,” says Brian Schweiss, University of Missouri Extension specialist. “Their efforts produce a diverse habitat for grouse, deer, turkey and songbirds.”

Participants will learn effective land management strategies for wildlife, sustainable harvesting practices and how to use prescribed fire to manage different landscapes. Professionals from the Missouri Department of Conservation and MU Extension as well as consulting foresters will answer questions and provide insights on different management practices. Participants also can learn about how to receive a free visit from a consulting forester.

“Those attending the field day will see recent and older harvest areas to understand the different cover created for wildlife,” says Schweiss. “They will also see glades and learn how to use prescribed fire to maintain some open grassland habitat. They will get a glimpse of what the forest could look like without management. To some, this ‘no management’ area looks like an ideal setting, but for wildlife, it provides very little food and cover.”

This event is free to the public, and lunch will be provided. Registration is required. Register by 5 p.m. Sept. 1 at http://bit.ly/MU_Forestry_Field_Day.

For more information, contact Schweiss at [email protected] or Tom Westhoff at [email protected].

Partners are MU Extension, Missouri Grouse Chapter of the Quail and Upland Wildlife Federation, the Forest and Woodland Association of Missouri, Missouri Department of Conservation and Independent Stave Co.