San Juans Workshop: Improving Forest Health and Fire Resistance in a Changing Climate

When

Sunday, August 25th, 2019

10am – 4pm

Where

Morning Star Farm

244 John Jones Rd
Orcas Island

DIY Strategies for Forest Owners in the San Juans

Many forest owners across San Juan County are interested in taking a hands-on approach to improving the health, resilience and productivity of their forests, but lack the information, skills and resources to do so. At this hands-on workshop at Morningstar Farm, local and regional experts will introduce forest owners to simple, do-it-yourself strategies for thinning their forests, mitigating slash and creating value-added products.

The majority of this workshop will take place in the forest, teaching participants how to evaluate forest conditions, select trees for harvesting, and utilize woody biomass for forest health and biochar production. Our host, Morning Star Farm, is currently in the process of thinning their forest and converting excess wood waste to biochar for use in their farming operation.

Workshop participants are encouraged to bring water and a sack lunch. 

Space is limited to 25 applicants. Register early to secure your spot!

REGISTER FOR THE WORKSHOP

Topics

• Fire history and ecology in the San Juans
• Impacts of climate change on forests
• Forest carbon cycles
• Commercial and non-commercial thinning strategies
• Options for utilizing excess woody biomass
• How to convert forest slash to biochar
• Portable saw milling
• Improving wildlife habitat and timber values
• Financial assistance opportunities

Morning Star Farm

Free Site Visits

Workshop participants will qualify for a free two-hour site visit with a forester. During the site visit, the forester will help landowners refine plans for managing their forests and answer site specific questions. To register for a free site visit, please email kirk@nnrg.org.

Speakers

Kirk Hanson
Director of Forestry
Northwest Natural Resource Group

Kai Hoffman-Krull
CEO
Forage

Carson Sprenger
Restoration Ecologist/Fire Ecologist
Rain Shadow Consulting

REGISTER FOR THE WORKSHOP

Header images
Jonathan Miske, Flickr, https://flic.kr/p/rEKQz3
Matt Freeman-Gleason, mfgimages.com