Forestry Field Day planned at Yellow River Forest October 3

Iowans interested in the care of trees, forests and natural resources should consider attending a forestry field day this fall, held by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and various public and private partners.

Topics will include how to manage a forest for profit, water quality, wildlife and the aesthetic value of trees. Additional topics will include forest establishment, tree protection and invasive species control, herbicide use, forest products, portable sawmills, timber marketing and the legal aspects of forestry.

“Trees, woodlands and forests are often vastly under-utilized by Iowa landowners,” said Billy Beck, assistant professor and extension forestry specialist at Iowa State University. “These forestry field days provide Iowans the knowledge and resources to harness the true power of their forests.”

Beck became the Iowa State forestry specialist in August. He said he is looking forward to meeting Iowans and talking about the importance of the state’s trees and woodlands.

Bruce Blair, an area forester with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, said the field days will center around “edu-tainment,” providing a unique combination of information, networking and time in the outdoors.

Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. The program will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Yellow River State Forest Headquarters complex, located at 729 State Forest Road (County HWY B25), approximately five miles southeast of Rossville on Hwy 76 to B25 and then four miles northeast on B25 to the Headquarters.

Look for forestry field day signs at the entrance to the headquarters.

The cost for the day, which includes morning refreshments and a hot lunch, is payable on the day of the event. Those attending must RSVP to Allamakee County Extension at 563-568-6345 or email juliechr@iastate.edu by September 27 to guarantee a meal. Those who leave a message are reminded to provide their name and phone number, as registrants eat first.

Participants should dress for outdoor conditions. More information and the full agenda can be found at www.forestry.iastate.edu.

Field day partners include the Iowa Tree Farm Program, Iowa Walnut Council, Natural Resources Conservation Service, private forestry consultants, loggers and sawmill operators, as well as private landowners.