Learn how active management improved wildlife habitat, forest health and land value.
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PORTLAND, Mo. – Landowners interested in improving woods, wildlife habitat and overall property health can learn firsthand from a family recognized for its stewardship success at a free forest and wildlife field day Sept. 12 near Portland, Mo.
University of Missouri Extension and conservation partners will host the workshop from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the Callaway County property of Bill and Margie Haag, recipients of the Missouri Tree Farmer of the Year Award in 2014.
“The Haag family has spent years actively managing their land to improve both forest health and wildlife habitat,” says Brian Schweiss, MU Extension sustainable forestry specialist. “Their property is a great example of how thoughtful management can create healthier woods, increase wildlife diversity and generate income through timber harvests.”
Participants will take a driving tour of the Haag property and see how different management practices have shaped the landscape over time. Stops will highlight young and mature woodlands, wildlife habitat improvements and techniques to encourage healthy tree growth.
The Haags have thinned timber stands, restored native habitat, removed invasive species and used prescribed fires to improve conditions across their property. Their efforts have led to increases in native grasses and wildflowers, improved habitat for deer and turkey, and greater numbers of songbirds and other wildlife.
Representatives from the Missouri Department of Conservation, conservation organizations and consulting forestry professionals will discuss topics including timber stand improvement, woodland thinning, prescribed fire, invasive species control and wildlife habitat management. Attendees will have opportunities to ask questions and receive guidance applicable to their own properties.
“Sometimes nature needs a little help,” Schweiss says. “This field day gives landowners a chance to see management practices in action and learn approaches they can use to meet their own goals for their woods and wildlife.”
The event is free, but registration is required by Sept. 8. Lunch will be provided.
For more information, contact Brian Schweiss at schweissb@missouri.edu or Tom Westhoff at westhoff@windstream.net.